Head of Health, Safety and Environment

Company: Irwin and Colton
Apply for the Head of Health, Safety and Environment
Location: Newcastle upon Tyne
Job Description:

Up to £80K + £5,650 Car Allowance / Company Car + 17.5% Bonus + Excellent Benefits

Irwin a Colton are delighted to be partnering with one of the UK’s most recognisable and successful food-to-go businesses to recruit a Head of Health, Safety and Environment. This is a fantastic opportunity to take on a senior leadership position within a major national organisation, overseeing Health, Safety and Environmental performance across an extensive manufacturing, logistics, distribution and retail network.

With over 2,500 retail locations and significant investment underway, including the development of two major automated distribution centres, the business is entering an exciting period of growth and operational transformation. The successful candidate will take ownership of the national HSE strategy, leading an established and experienced team of HSE professionals and working closely with senior stakeholders to drive continuous improvement across the organisation.

The role has a particular focus on manufacturing, supply chain and logistics operations, offering the opportunity to influence HSE performance across a large, complex and evolving business.

Key Responsibilities of the Head of Health, Safety and Environment:

  • Lead the development and delivery of the national HSE strategy, ensuring alignment with business objectives and operational priorities.
  • Provide leadership and direction to an established HSE function, including regional HSE managers and operational safety teams.
  • Oversee the HSE Management System, ensuring effective governance, regulatory compliance, risk management and assurance across the organisation.
  • Play a key role in major investment and operational transformation projects, including the development of new automated distribution facilities.
  • Drive continuous improvement in HSE performance through effective reporting, incident investigation, trend analysis and targeted initiatives.
  • Work closely with senior leadership and operational teams to embed a proactive and positive safety culture across manufacturing, logistics, distribution and retail operations.
  • Provide expert guidance on HSE legislation, regulatory requirements and industry best practice, ensuring practical and commercially effective solutions.

The Successful Head of Health, Safety and Environment Will Have:

  • A NEBOSH Diploma or equivalent Level 6 Health & Safety qualification, with CMIOSH desirable.
  • A strong background in FMCG, manufacturing, supply chain, logistics or distribution.
  • Proven experience leading and developing HSE teams across multiple operational locations.

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Posted: October 26th, 2026