Chief Safety Officer

Pty; Gauteng; Hybrid; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A commodity trading and consulting entity in South Africa seeks a Chief Safety Officer to manage internal health and safety requirements. The CSO will lead the development and implementation of health, safety, and environmental systems across multiple sites. Candidates should have a Degree in Occupational Safety, 5+ years in a senior HSE role, and a strong leadership background. The position requires travel nationwide and includes a market-related salary based on experience.

Benefits

Market related salary

Annual leave

Professional development training

Valid driver's license required

Qualifications

• Minimum 5–7 years' experience in a senior HSE role within industrial, processing, mining, logistics, or construction.
• Strong background in developing and implementing HSE management systems.
• Proven track record of leading incident investigations.

Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and maintain the Health & Safety Management System (HSMS).
• Identify hazards and conduct risk assessments across all sites.
• Prepare and submit regular HSE reports for executive leadership.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Risk assessment

Analytical capabilities

Report writing

Education

National Diploma or Degree in Occupational Health & Safety

SAMTRAC, NEBOSH, or equivalent HSE certification

Job description

Introduction

CRMN Trading is a commodity trading and consulting entity that requires an in-house Chief Safety Officer.

The role will be responsible for managing all internal health and safety requirements as well as overseeing outsourced safety services to support the company's broader operational activities. The Chief Safety Officer (CSO) will be responsible for leading, implementing, and monitoring the company's health, safety, and environmental (HSE) systems internally and on an outsourced basis to clients requiring the services.

The CSO will ensure that all operations comply with statutory requirements, internal safety policies, and industry best practices.

This role requires a proactive leader capable of driving a strong organisational safety culture across multiple operational sites throughout South Africa. The role is based in Midrand but requires regular travel to other company sites and partner operations nationally.

Duties & Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

1. Safety Leadership & Compliance: Develop, implement, and maintain the organisation's Health & Safety Management System (HSMS). Ensure compliance with all relevant national legislation, including the Occupational Health and Safety Act (OHSA), Mine Health & Safety Act (where applicable), and associated regulations. Lead and coordinate internal and external safety audits, inspections, and risk assessments. Establish and enforce safety policies, procedures, and safe operating practices.
2. Risk Management: Identify potential hazards and conduct detailed risk assessments across all sites. Develop risk mitigation strategies and ensure corrective actions are implemented. Maintain an up-to-date risk register for all operations. Lead incident investigations, root-cause analysis, and preventative measure implementation.
3. Reporting & Governance: Prepare and submit regular HSE reports for executive leadership and compliance bodies. Monitor, track, and report on safety performance indicators (KPIs). Maintain all records required for statutory compliance, including incident logs, training attendance, and audit findings.
4. Training & Capacity Building: Identify training needs and coordinate mandatory and refresher safety training. Conduct toolbox talks, induction sessions, and specialised safety briefings. Ensure the CSO themselves attends all training provided by the company (as required).
5. Emergency Preparedness: Develop, implement, and maintain emergency response plans for all sites. Coordinate emergency drills and ensure site readiness. Lead crisis response in the event of serious incidents.
6. Site Engagement & Travel: Conduct regular site visits nationwide to monitor and enforce safety compliance. Train and support site supervisors and safety reps. Build strong working relationships with site management teams.
7. Continuous Improvement: Drive a culture of continuous HSE improvement. Evaluate new technologies, systems, and processes to improve safety standards. Recommend strategic safety initiatives to management.

Desired Experience & Qualification

Qualifications: National Diploma or Degree in Occupational Health & Safety, Environmental Management, Risk Management, or a related field. SAMTRAC, NEBOSH, or equivalent recognised HSE certification (advantageous).

Registration with a recognised professional body (SACPCMP registration as CHSO or higher preferred).

Experience: Minimum 5–7 years' experience in a senior HSE role. Strong background in industrial, processing, mining, logistics, or construction environments. Experience developing and implementing HSE management systems. Proven track record of leading incident investigations and managing compliance audits.

Skills & Competencies: Strong leadership and communication skills. Excellent knowledge of OHSA and relevant regulations. High attention to detail and strong analytical capabilities. Ability to train, coach, and influence teams at all levels. Ability and willingness to travel extensively across South Africa. Strong report writing and presentation skills. Ability to work independently and manage multiple sites.

Package & Remuneration

Conditions of Employment: Based in Midrand with frequent national travel. 15 days annual leave. Working hours: 08h.

• Salary: Market related and based on applicant's experience.
• Attendance at all employer-provided.
• Additional training and professional development will be provided as part of the role.
• Valid driver's licence required.

Interested?