Director of QEHSS

Please note: For this role, you must be able to pass the UK Security Clearance vetting process. To check the UK Government criteria for this, please click hereFiltronic plc is a leading designer and manufacturer of high-performance radio frequency (RF), microwave, and millimetre-wave (mmWave) subsystems, specialising in mission-critical communication networks. Since 1977, we have built a strong reputation as trusted partners to global technology leaders across the telecommunications infrastructure, aerospace and defence, space, and critical communications sectors. Our legacy of innovation and engineering excellence has positioned us at the forefront of advanced connectivity solutions worldwide, and we continue to grow as we deliver cutting-edge technology for some of the most exciting programmes in the industry.What we are looking for:We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Director of QEHSS to lead our integrated Quality, Environment, Health & Safety, and Security functions. This is a senior leadership position that requires strategic thinking, exceptional leadership skills, and the ability to engage with senior and executive leadership whilst ensuring compliance across all operational areas.The successful candidate will serve as the statutory 'Responsible Person' under relevant health and safety legislation and will be accountable for developing and implementing comprehensive strategies that protect our people, assets, environment, and reputation whilst driving continuous improvement in quality assurance.RequirementsStrategic LeadershipDevelop, implement, and continuously improve integrated QEHSS strategies aligned with business objectives and regulatory requirementsAct as trusted advisor to the Executive Leadership Team on all matters relating to quality, environmental impact, health & safety, and security risksChallenge existing practices and drive cultural change to embed QEHSS excellence throughout the organisationLead the development of QEHSS policies, procedures, and management systems to world-class standardsExperience of operating within VUCA business environments (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous)Quality Assurance & ManagementOversee comprehensive quality assurance programmes across all business operationsEnsure compliance with ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards and maintain certificationOversee operations working to ISO 45001 standard principlesDrive continuous improvement initiatives and operational excellence programmesManage customer quality requirements and be the key interface with external auditors and certification bodiesDevelop and maintain quality protocols for space payload applications and aerospace/defence industry requirementsWorking knowledge of AS9100 certification requirements for Aviation, Space, and Defence (AS&D) industry standardsHealth & Safety LeadershipServe as the statutory 'Responsible Person' for health and safety under relevant legislationDevelop and maintain robust health and safety management systemsEnsure compliance with all applicable health and safety regulations and standardsLead incident investigation, root cause analysis, and corrective action implementationDrive safety culture transformation and behavioural change programmesEnvironmentDevelop and implement environmental management strategies and policiesEnsure compliance with environmental legislation and permit conditionsDrive sustainability initiatives and environmental impact reduction programsManage environmental risk assessments and mitigation strategiesSecurity & Risk ManagementDevelop comprehensive security strategies covering physical, personnel, information, and operational securityOversee day-to-day site security operations including access control systems, alarm monitoring and CCTVManage security incident response and act as primary liaison with external agencies including MoD/Cabinet Office, HSE, blue light services and Durham County CouncilConduct security risk assessments and implement appropriate mitigation and countermeasuresAdminister security access control systems and manage security clearance requirementsDevelop and deliver security awareness training programmesDevelop and deliver health and safety, fire warden, first aid and any other type of training aligned to QEHSS, in collaboration with our Training Lead. Ensure business continuity and crisis management preparednessDevelop and test emergency response plans including evacuation and other procedures which may become relevant from time to timeMaintain detailed records and reporting as required by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE)Maintain detailed security incident records and reporting for both physical and cyber security eventsGovernance & ComplianceEnsure full compliance with all relevant legislation, regulations, and industry standardsPrepare and present regular reports to the Board and Executive Leadership Team as requiredManage external regulatory relationships and inspections with organisation and suppliersMaintain professional development and stay current with regulatory changes and developmentsQualifications & CertificationsBachelor's degree in engineering, Environmental Science, Occupational Health & Safety, or a related field, or demonstrable relevant experience Chartered status with relevant professional body (for example IOSH, IEMA, CQI) NEBOSH Diploma or equivalent health and safety qualificationWorking experience within the aerospace sectorLead Auditor certification for relevant ISO standards (i.e. ISO9001, ISO14001, ISO45001)Demonstrable evidence of continuous professional developmentExperienceSignificant experience of working in a similar QEHSS role within manufacturing or technologyProven track record of developing and implementing integrated management systemsHave served in statutory 'Responsible Person' roleDemonstrated success in engaging with and influencing C-suite executivesTrack record of leading cultural change and transformation programmesExperience managing multi-disciplinary teams and complex stakeholder relationshipsTechnical CompetenciesDeep understanding of ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and working knowledge of ISO 45001 principlesKnowledge of AS9100 certification requirements for aerospace, space, and defence industriesComprehensive knowledge of UK health and safety legislation and regulationsStrong understanding of environmental law and sustainability principlesKnowledge of information security principles, cybersecurity frameworks, and data protection regulations (GDPR)Experience with quality assurance methodologies and continuous improvement toolsUnderstanding of space payload quality protocols and highly regulated industry requirementsCompetency with QEHSS and security software systems, including CCTV and access control technologiesFamiliarity with cybersecurity risk management and incident response proceduresThe above does not constitute the full role requirements. Please contact Bruce Mair for all the details, or to obtain a comprehensive job description.BenefitsWe recognise the value of exceptional talent. That's why this role is backed by an outstanding salary with senior management level bonus and benefits, benchmarked close to the top of the sector.Please call Bruce Mair, our Talent Partner, on 07483 917543 (anytime) if you would like further details on this important role, or to clarify the salary and benefits package, before investing your time in applying.Filtronic plc is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or disability status. If you require any adjustments or accommodations to support you during the interview process, please let us know and we will be happy to assist.