Head of Health & Safety

About the role

The successful candidate will lead Health & Safety, fire safety and temporary works governance for a leading refurbishment and fit‑out contractor. Reporting to the Board, this senior position combines strategic oversight with a visible presence on multiple construction sites, giving the authority to stop work when serious risk is identified.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and maintain an ISO 45001‑aligned Health & Safety Management System.
• Manage CDM Principal Contractor duties and Temporary Works governance (BS 5975).
• Lead fire‑safety compliance in line with legislation, JCOP and insurer requirements.
• Drive audits, assurance activities, incident investigations and continuous improvement programmes.
• Collaborate with operational teams across sites to promote a proactive safety culture.
• Challenge unsafe behaviours and commercial pressures when necessary.
• Report risk, compliance and performance metrics to senior leadership and the Board.

Required profile

• Level 6/7 qualification in Occupational Health & Safety (e.g., NEBOSH, IOSH).
• CMIOSH chartership or working towards it.
• Strong knowledge of CDM Regulations 2015, Building Safety Act 2022, fire‑safety legislation and BS 5975.
• Proven experience in construction, preferably refurbishment or fit‑out projects.
• Excellent leadership, communication and stakeholder‑management skills.
• Willingness to be site‑based regularly and engage directly with project teams.

Required skills

• ISO 45001 implementation
• CDM Regulations 2015
• Building Safety Act 2022
• Fire‑safety legislation compliance
• BS 5975 Temporary Works
• CMIOSH chartership