Head of Health & Safety, Food Safety

Looking for a dynamic and experienced Head of (or Director of) Health & Safety and Food Safety, to oversee the creation and implementation of robust health, safety, food safety and compliance strategies across UK operations. This role encompasses more than 400 restaurants, ensuring a cohesive and proactive approach to safety and risk management.

Client Details

My client, a global QSR, is seeking to expand their leadership team within the Health & Safety and Food Safety department. This role provides an exciting opportunity to drive transformative change by championing health and safety as well as restaurant food safety. If you are a forward-thinking leader with a passion for safety, compliance, and fostering positive change, we encourage you to apply.

Description

Strategic Leadership:

• Design and implement a comprehensive health, safety, and risk management strategy aligned with legal and organizational goals.
• Collaborate with franchisees to ensure consistent safety standards and compliance.
• Align safety programs with business objectives, focusing on training, incident reduction, and operational efficiency.
• Develop risk-mitigation strategies to enhance long-term brand growth and operational resilience.
• Lead crisis management planning for food safety, accidents, and emergencies.
• Work with RBI to update corporate policies on pest management, allergen controls, and contractor management.

Operational Leadership:

• Ensure compliance with the Food Safety Act and Health and Safety regulations.
• Oversee contractor management, food safety audits, and HACCP reviews.
• Conduct training needs assessments and organize safety training sessions.
• Manage incident response, including insurance claims, accident investigations, and guest complaints.
• Provide regular performance reports to the board and risk committee.

Cross-Functional Collaboration:

• Ensure health and safety compliance during site remodels and operational upgrades.
• Advise on the safety aspects of new product launches, including allergen management.
• Address safety issues in Back of House (BOH) areas without delaying critical improvements.

Franchise & Industry Engagement:

• Build strong relationships with regulatory bodies to ensure consistent safety enforcement.
• Represent the company at industry forums to stay updated on safety trends.
• Empower franchisees with resources to uphold safety standards and foster a collaborative approach to risk management.

Profile

• Bachelor's degree in Environmental Health, Food Technology, or a related field with a focus on Health & Safety or Risk Management.
• Proven leadership experience in health and safety within the restaurant, food service, or retail sectors.
• In-depth knowledge of food hygiene, occupational safety, and health regulations, particularly in the quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry.
• Strong communication, leadership, and collaboration skills, with a demonstrated ability to engage cross-functional teams effectively.
• Chartered status with the Chartered Institution of Environmental Health (CIEH) or similar accreditation.
• Postgraduate qualifications in Occupational Health & Safety, such as the NEBOSH Diploma or MSc.
• Experience in managing legal cases, insurance claims, and regulatory actions related to health and safety.

Job Offer

• Highly competitive base salary
• Attractive bonus structure with significant earning potential
• Exceptional bonus package
• Thriving company and renowned brand with excellent career growth opportunities
• Flexible work-from-home option (2 days per week)