COMAH Manager – Lead Environmental Safety

About the role

The Environment Agency is seeking a strategic and technical leader to head the Control of Major Accident Hazards (COMAH) team. You will guide the agency’s relationship with the COMAH Competent Authority and drive improvements across the COMAH regime in England.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the COMAH team, fostering high performance and continuous improvement.
• Manage the agency’s partnership with the COMAH Competent Authority to ensure effective, autonomous operation.
• Collaborate with internal operational teams, site operators, trade associations, and government departments on policy and regulatory matters.
• Oversee the development and implementation of new IT systems, training programmes, guidance, and working practices for COMAH regulation.
• Provide expert advice to senior leaders and industry stakeholders to protect the environment from major industrial accidents.
• Represent the agency at national meetings and travel as required to engage with stakeholders.

Required profile

• Proven leadership experience in a fast‑paced, changing environment.
• Deep knowledge of the COMAH regime and experience in environmental regulation, either as a regulator or within a regulated business.
• Strong influencing and relationship‑building skills, comfortable liaising with senior leaders.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Commitment to inclusive working practices and flexible working arrangements.

Required skills

• COMAH regime knowledge
• Environmental regulation expertise

What we offer

• Flexible working patterns to support work‑life balance.
• Development opportunities, training and a supportive inclusive culture.