Head of HSSEQ

Lead the future of health, safety, security, environment and quality at Watson Fuels.

Watson Fuels is seeking an experienced and inspiring Head of HSSEQ to lead the development of our Health, Safety, Security, Environment and Quality strategy across our nationwide operation. Reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer, this is a high-impact leadership opportunity for someone who thrives in a visible, operational role and is passionate about creating a proactive safety culture that puts people first.

As one of the UK's leading fuel distribution businesses, we operate across a national network of depots, offices and transport operations. We are proud of our collaborative culture, strong heritage and commitment to continuous improvement. This role offers the opportunity to shape our HSSEQ agenda, influence behavioural change and ensure the highest standards of safety, environmental stewardship and operational excellence across the business.

This is a home-based position with extensive UK travel, typically spending at least three days each week visiting depots, offices, suppliers and customers. The role offers a competitive salary, plus a car allowance and annual bonus, and a comprehensive benefits package.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, coach and develop the HSSEQ team while influencing safety culture across the wider organisation.
• Develop and maintain HSSEQ policies, procedures and management systems in line with UK legislation and company standards.
• Drive behavioural safety programmes and embed a positive, proactive safety culture.
• Lead incident investigations, root cause analysis and corrective action programmes.
• Ensure compliance with ADR, petroleum licensing, environmental permits and relevant legislation.
• Oversee environmental management, emergency response planning and physical security systems.
• Conduct site inspections, audits and risk assessments across the UK depot network.
• Prepare HSSEQ reports for senior leadership and support Board-level due diligence.
• Build strong relationships across the business through visible leadership and regular operational engagement.

Skills & Experience

• Senior HSSEQ leadership experience within a multi-site organisation.
• NEBOSH Diploma (or equivalent) is essential.
• Experience within fuel distribution, chemicals, gas, hazardous logistics, bulk liquids, waste & recycling, COMAH or other high-hazard industries.
• Strong understanding of UK Health & Safety legislation, ADR, COMAH, ISO 9001 and ISO 45001/14001.
• Proven experience leading behavioural safety and cultural change programmes.
• Strong incident investigation, risk management and emergency response experience.
• Commercially minded with the ability to influence and engage stakeholders at every level.
• Excellent communication, leadership and problem-solving skills.

Why Join Watson Fuels?

• Shape the future of HSSEQ within a respected national business.
• Report directly to the Chief Operating Officer and influence business-wide strategy.
• Lead meaningful cultural change across a large multi-site operation.
• Enjoy a varied role with significant autonomy and visibility across the business.
• Competitive salary, bonus and car allowance.
• Join a business that genuinely values its people, safety culture and continuous improvement.

How to Apply:

If this role sounds like your next career move, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today or contact Niche Recruitment for a confidential discussion.