Head of Safety, Health, and Environment (SHE)

Science and Technology Facilities Council

Salary: £84,001 - £93,335 (depending on skills and experience)

Contract Type: Open-ended (Permanent)

Hours: Full-time (Flexible working / Part-time considered; minimum 30 hours per week)

Location: Rutherford Appleton Laboratory, Harwell, Oxfordshire OX11 0QX OR Daresbury Laboratory, Daresbury Science and Innovation Campus, Warrington, WA4 4AD

Together, our scientists, technologists, engineers, and business support team explore the unknown and turn discoveries into work that changes the world. Whether sending probes into space or finding new cancer treatments, everyone plays a vital role in making a positive societal impact.

Join us to discover how much you can achieve among world-leading experts, encouraged to learn continuously and empowered to explore your curiosity.

Responsibilities

The SHE team ensures Safety, Health, and Environment compliance, reporting to the Chief Operating Officer. The team includes specialists in areas such as radiation safety, supported by subject matter experts. As head of department, you will oversee a coherent safety quality management system, advising departmental directors and line managers. You will collaborate with health and safety leaders across UK Research and Innovation, other Research Councils, and DSIT (our parent Department).

Your leadership will strengthen the team and safety culture across STFC, with oversight of nationally important science and innovation campuses, experimental facilities, and international collaborations, including CERN and astronomy observatories.

You will be responsible for the SHE strategy, governance, and operational excellence, continually enhancing our safety performance.

Other Aspects Of The Role Include

• Assuring performance and compliance through statutory inspections and audits.
• Maintaining the effectiveness of quality management systems, policies, and codes.
• Managing departmental budgets and financial reporting.
• Promoting continuous improvement in SHE performance.
• Identifying training needs for SHE.
• Serving as the primary liaison with external bodies such as the Health and Safety Executive and Environment Agency.

Key Skills

Applicants should have management experience leading a corporate SHE function in a similar environment, operating at a strategic level, with agility to implement organizational change. Proven leadership of high-performing teams, specialist domain knowledge with relevant certifications, and the ability to provide accurate advice on complex issues are essential.

Essential Criteria

• Inspirational leadership that develops and empowers teams.
• Proven track record of improving health and safety performance, backed by a Level 6 or 7 qualification or equivalent experience.
• Experience in developing SHE strategies, policies, leading improvement initiatives, and resolving issues.
• Effective communication across all levels and with external partners.
• Willingness to travel within the UK and occasionally abroad, with flexibility to work outside routine hours when necessary.

STFC offers a comprehensive benefits package, including 30 days annual leave, 10.5 public holidays, flexible working hours, a workplace nursery at RAL, a generous pension scheme, social and sporting activities, and subsidized dining options.

As one of Europe's largest research organizations, there's always something new to learn about the world, your career, and yourself. Join us by submitting your CV and cover letter explaining how you meet the criteria and your motivation for applying.