Health & Safety ManagerKentFood ManufacturingAt The Collective Network, we don't just fill roles, we build partnerships with people who take ownership, challenge the status quo, and raise the bar. We're working with a fast-paced food manufacturing business that's serious about standards. They need a Health & Safety Manager who doesn't sit behind policy, they lead from the floor, set the tone, and make safety part of how the business thinks, not just what it does. This is a role for someone who sees risk before it happens, drives accountability at every level, and ensures the site is always audit-ready, not just when someone's watching.What you'll ownLead and evolve the H&S strategy in line with operational demandsEnsure full compliance with legal, regulatory, and audit standards (BRC, ISO, COP)Create and embed a proactive, engaged safety culture across the workforceIdentify gaps through audits and observations - and fix them with clear, workable solutionsOwn and manage the H&S budget effectivelyKeep the site audit-ready at all timesYou'll also take ownership of the crisis management framework - making sure plans are current, relevant, and actually workable when it matters.What it looks like day to dayThis isn't a desk job. You'll be visible, vocal, and hands-on.Lead from the front - driving engagement and accountability across all teamsChallenge existing processes constructively and push for betterDeliver training and guidance that people actually understand and applyEnsure all risk assessments (RA) and PUWER requirements are robust and up to dateAct as the key contact for external agencies and enforcement bodiesLead H&S performance reviews, reporting, and continuous improvement initiativesPartner with operational teams to tackle accident trends and risk hotspotsSupport projects with clear, commercially sound H&S inputSite safety, security & responseOwn site-wide safety protocols, including new equipment sign-offEnsure emergency preparedness - fire drills, trained teams, and clear proceduresMaintain strong contractor management and emergency coverBe a reliable escalation point, including out-of-hours when neededThe kind of person this suitsYou're credible on the ground and confident in the boardroom.Strong understanding of UK H&S legislation and regulatory frameworksAble to influence at all levels - from shop floor to senior leadershipProactive mindset - you spot risk early and act decisivelyAnalytical - you can turn data into insight and actionCalm, pragmatic, and solutions-focused under pressureWhat you'll bringNEBOSH qualification (or equivalent)Experience with ISO 45001 and audit standards (BRC/ISO Lead Auditor ideal)Proven track record of building a positive H&S culture in manufacturing (food experience highly advantageous)Strong stakeholder management and team leadership experienceWorking knowledge of BRC, ISO45001, SMETA/SEDEX, and COP standardsWhat success looks likeZero major non-conformities in auditsStrong audit performance across customer and ethical standardsFully compliant, up-to-date risk assessments and equipment standardsMeasurable reduction in accident frequency ratesA workforce that owns safety - not just follows itWhy this role?Because this isn't about ticking boxes. It's about building a culture where safety is second nature - where standards are high, people are engaged, and the operation runs smarter because of it. If you're looking for a role where you can genuinely make an impact, drive change, and be recognised for it - we should talk. #J-18808-Ljbffr