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JOB SUMMARY
The Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Manager plays a critical role in ensuring the safe, compliant, and environmentally responsible delivery of construction projects. Responsible for developing, implementing, and monitoring HSE policies, procedures, and management systems, the role safeguards the wellbeing of employees, subcontractors, clients, and the public while driving a culture of safety and sustainability across all sites.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
- Leading on all aspects of health, safety, and environmental compliance in line with UK legislation (CDM 2015, HSWA 1974, ISO 45001, ISO 14001, etc.) and company standards.
- Carrying out regular site inspections, audits, and risk assessments to identify hazards, mitigate risks, and ensure high standards of housekeeping and safe working practices.
- Supporting project teams with the preparation and review of Construction Phase Plans (CPPs), RAMS, method statements, and environmental management plans.
- Investigating accidents, incidents, and near misses, producing clear reports, identifying root causes, and implementing corrective actions.
- Delivering toolbox talks, inductions, and training programmes to build awareness, competency, and a positive safety culture across site teams and the supply chain.
- Acting as the key point of contact with regulatory bodies (HSE, Environment Agency, Local Authorities) and ensuring compliance with inspections, permits, and reporting requirements.
- Embedding sustainability and environmental best practice, including waste reduction, carbon reduction initiatives, and pollution prevention measures.
- Providing strategic advice and guidance to senior leadership, project managers, and site teams, ensuring HSE is at the heart of project delivery.
- The HSE Manager is expected to be proactive, detail-driven, and a strong communicator, with the ability to influence behaviours, challenge poor practice, and promote continuous improvement.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS OR ABILITIES
Knowledge
- In-depth knowledge of UK Health & Safety legislation and regulations (HSWA 1974, CDM 2015, RIDDOR, PUWER, LOLER, COSHH).
- Strong understanding of environmental legislation and sustainability standards (ISO 14001, waste management, carbon reduction).
- Familiarity with ISO 45001 / OHSAS 18001 health & safety management systems.
- Comprehensive knowledge of risk management, incident investigation, and root cause analysis methodologies.
- Awareness of current and emerging best practice in construction health, safety, and environmental management.
- Knowledge of construction methods, site operations, and supply chain management.
Skills
- Strong leadership and ability to influence behaviours across site teams and subcontractors.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills to engage staff at all levels.
- Competent in preparing and reviewing RAMS, CPPs, and environmental management plans.
- Skilled in conducting audits, inspections, and risk assessments, with a focus on continuous improvement.
- Incident investigation and report-writing skills with the ability to identify root causes and corrective actions.
- IT skills including Microsoft Office Suite and HSE reporting/audit systems.
- Ability to design and deliver effective training, inductions, and toolbox talks.
Abilities
- Ability to remain calm and decisive in high-pressure situations, such as accidents or regulatory visits.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving ability with a proactive approach.
- Capacity to balance compliance requirements with practical, site-specific solutions.
- Able to build strong working relationships with clients, regulators, and project teams.
- Ability to foster a culture of accountability, safety awareness, and environmental responsibility.
- Adaptability to work across multiple projects and sites simultaneously.
- Commitment to professional development and staying up to date with legislation and industry trends
Essential Qualifications
- NEBOSH National Diploma in Occupational Health & Safety (or equivalent).
- NEBOSH Certificate in Construction Health & Safety (or equivalent construction-specific qualification).
- Chartered or Practitioner membership of IOSH (CMIOSH, GradIOSH, or working towards).
- Environmental Management qualification (IEMA membership, NEBOSH Environmental Certificate, or equivalent).
- First Aid at Work & Fire Safety qualifications.
Desirable Qualifications
- ISO 45001 / ISO 14001 Lead Auditor qualification.
- Temporary Works Supervisor / Coordinator training.
- SMSTS (Site Management Safety Training Scheme).
- Additional specialist training (Asbestos Awareness, Manual Handling Instructor, Face Fit Tester, etc.).
Experience
- Proven track record (5+ years) in managing health, safety, and environmental compliance on construction projects.
- Experience working under CDM Regulations, liaising with Principal Contractors, Clients, and CDM Duty Holders.
- Demonstrable experience in developing and implementing HSE policies, systems, and site-specific safety plans.
- Experience in conducting incident investigations and liaising with regulatory bodies (HSE, Environment Agency, Local Authorities).
- Background in training delivery, inductions, and toolbox talks to mixed audiences.
- Experience in embedding sustainability and environmental best practices (waste management, carbon reduction, pollution prevention).
- Strong history of driving behavioural safety culture improvements across site teams and supply chains.
EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
- Life assurance
- Employee discounts and e-vouchers
- Gym discounts
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Car lease scheme
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
- Access to a wide range of high-quality refurbished tech at discounted prices through our benefits platform
DIVERSITY, EQUALITY AND INCLUSION STATEMENT
At Surefire Management Services LTD, we are committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to achieve their full potential. We believe that our differences make us stronger, and we actively seek to build a team that reflects the diverse communities we serve.
We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all qualified individuals, regardless of race, gender, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic. Together, we strive to create a culture of belonging where every employee can thrive and contribute to our shared success
