HSE Manager

Franks Portlock; Maidstone; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global FMCG company in Maidstone is seeking a dedicated individual to build a Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) function from scratch. This unique role offers high autonomy and the chance to impact multiple countries. The ideal candidate has experience with a multi-country remit and a building skill set to turn HSE into a living entity within the organization. Join a supportive business committed to employee development and robust growth opportunities, alongside a chance for 30-40% travel.

Benefits

Genuine support for employee development

Opportunity for international exposure

Potential for organic growth and acquisitions

Qualifications

• Experience with a multi‑country remit in a product‑based business with operational sites.
• Building skill set (people, processes, systems) – a 'builder' who can bring HSE to life.

Responsibilities

• Build and establish the HSE function from the ground up.
• Develop relationships with key stakeholders and understand effective systems and processes.
• Embed HSE DNA across the region while accommodating country-specific nuances.
• Design the organizational structure of the HSE function.

Job description

Job Description

A fantastic opportunity to come and build a HSE function for a well-established global FMCG business, responsible for operations across several countries throughout EMEA. This newly created role is an opportunity to join a business that is rapidly growing, people‑centric and, although substantial in size, retains an entrepreneurial and agile nature.

With HSE spread across various functions (HR, Operations, Supply Chain, Technical etc.), the time is now right to bring in a dedicated resource to build a HSE function from the ground up. The role will be hands‑on: building relationships with key stakeholders and gaining a good understanding of what works and what doesn’t in terms of systems, processes and people.

You will be able to embed the DNA of HSE across the region, share best practices, integrate, and still allow for nuances in each country. You'll establish the organisational design of the function and have high degrees of autonomy in decision making.

Why Join?

• Established business on a high‑growth journey, with huge potential to grow through organic growth and acquisitions.
• A multi‑country remit with exposure to different cultures and ways of working (around 30‑40% travel).
• A genuinely supportive business that invests in its people – reflected in working environment, benefits and retention.
• The chance to build a dedicated HSE function from scratch – a rare opportunity outside a start‑up.
• Capable, supportive colleagues – some of the best people in FMCG, mutually learning and improving.
• Stability and commercial success – the business is growing and consistently successful, with a clear vision.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Experience with a multi‑country remit in a product‑based business with operational sites.
• Building skill set (people, processes, systems) – a “builder” who can bring HSE to life.

If you meet these criteria, let us have a confidential discussion.