Head of EHS

We’re looking for a strategic leader to head our Environment, Health, and Safety (EHS) function, driving the EHS vision and ensuring that safety, compliance, and environmental sustainability are integral to every project. This role will involve overseeing all EHS programs, developing policies, and ensuring compliance with industry standards and regulations in telecommunications and utility projects across urban and rural areas.Key Responsibilities:Strategic EHS Leadership & Compliance:Act as a trusted advisor on EHS matters for all levels of the organization, fostering a collaborative safety culture across projects.Design, implement, and maintain a comprehensive EHS strategy, aligning practices with core business goals and ensuring compliance with ISO9001, ISO14001, ISO45001, and ISO50001.Partner with the Senior Management Team to drive initiatives, elevate operational standards, and oversee EHS across the ROI, GB, EU and US regions.Develop, manage, and monitor the annual EHS budget, ensuring cost-effective allocation of resources while meeting all compliance and safety objectives.Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing EHS team, focusing on professional growth, technical competence, and strategic alignment with company goals.Foster a collaborative team environment that emphasises continuous improvement, safety engagement, and innovation in all EHS practices.EHS Culture Development & Stakeholder Engagement:Build strong relationships at all organizational levels, engaging employees in EHS programs and fostering a culture of safety, inclusivity, and continuous improvement.Engage with external clients, stakeholders, and regulators to reinforce EHS alignment and compliance across my client's diverse project landscape.Provide regular updates to the executive team and board on EHS performance, risks, and strategic initiatives.Work closely with other departments (HR, Operations, Legal) to integrate EHS considerations into all aspects of the business.Integrated Management System (IMS) Oversight:Lead the continual improvement of the Integrated Management System, ensuring it meets or exceeds industry and regulatory standards.Coordinate and support internal and external audits, guiding operational teams through ISO9001, ISO14001, ISO45001, and ISO50001 certification processes.Conduct management system audits, document findings, and oversee corrective/preventive action plans for continuous improvement.Leverage EHS technologies and data analytics to enhance safety and compliance processes.Stay informed on industry trends and incorporate leading practices to maintain a competitive edge.Risk Assessment & Incident Management:Implement robust risk management processes, from contractual assessments, pre-qualification risk analysis to BAU requirements.Oversee business-wide risk assessment, mitigation strategies, and ensure resilience planning.Establish and update EHS policies and procedures in line with industry best practices and legislative changes.Ensure the organization meets all relevant legal and regulatory requirements, including reporting and documentation, across all active jurisdictions (ROI, GB, US, EU)Support accident and incident investigations, utilising root-cause analysis to identify preventive measures and reduce risks.Collaborate with action owners, providing coaching and expert advice on closing corrective actions effectively and promoting accountability.Operational Support & Training:Deliver targeted health and safety training for Managers, Supervisors, and field teams, ensuring competency in risk management and regulatory requirements.Develop site safety documentation, including construction phase plans, RAMS, traffic management plans, and safe systems of work.Identify and address knowledge or skill gaps, providing on-site coaching and internal training on essential topics like CDM, risk assessment and incident investigation.Monitoring & Reporting:Establish and track EHS performance indicators to monitor progress and identify areas for improvement.Lead investigations into major incidents, ensuring root causes are identified, and preventative measures are implemented.Provide concise, actionable insights to the senior management team to drive informed decision-making and continuous improvement across the business.General Responsibilities:Uphold commitment to high standards of customer service, valuing diversity, respect, and equality in all interactions.Maintain confidentiality and comply with Data Protection policies, particularly with client-sensitive information.Support the company’s health, safety, and welfare policies, actively participating in training and development activities to enhance personal and organizational EHS capabilities.Qualifications and TrainingHealth and Safety, Environmental Diploma (Level 7/8)Membership of IOSH at Tech IOSH level (or equivalent) – Grad IOSH/CMIOSH level preferredCDM 2015 and 2016 related qualificationNEBOSH General Certificate – preferredNEBOSH Construction Certificate – preferredExperience in internal auditing/management of ISO 45001, ISO 14001, and ISO 9001Qualification in Fire Safety and Fire Risk Assessment – preferredProficient in all Microsoft Office applicationsExperience and KnowledgeMinimum 10 years in EHS management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role within telecommunications, utilities or construction sectorsComprehensive knowledge of ISO 45001 (18001), with experience in ISO 14001 and ISO 9001; familiarity with ISO 50001 and ISO 27001 is an advantageTrained auditor or demonstrated experience in on-the-job auditingExperience liaising with external auditorsIndustry experience in telecom or utilities, including work for a Principal Contractor and acting as a duty holderHands-on experience in producing procedures, risk assessments, method statements, construction phase plans, and waste management plansSkills and Personal AttributesStrong organizational skills with the ability to manage workload and prioritize tasks effectivelyCapable of working independently and taking responsibility for tasksProven ability to build trust and influence at all levelsExceptional communication and stakeholder management skillsApproachable and supportive team playerGoal-oriented and driven to achieve resultsProficient in Microsoft Office and other key business toolsHolds a valid driving license