Head of Corporate Compliance and Health and Safety - William Henry Smith Foundation
We are seeking an exceptional and values-driven Head of Corporate Compliance and Health & Safety to lead our organisation's strategic approach to compliance, governance, and safety across our network of specialist residential education settings.
Organisation Schools Directorate Primary Schools Service Area William Henry Smith Foundation Hours 37 Location Huddersfield and surrounding areas Position type Permanent Grade NJC pay scale 22 30 Salary £33,699.00 per annum - £40,777.00 per annum
The William Henry Smith Foundation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults and expects all staff to share this commitment. The foundation has effective child and adult protection policies which provide clear direction to staff and others about expected codes of behaviour in dealing with safeguarding issues. Our recruitment process aims to create and maintain a safe workforce and contains robust vetting procedures. The successful applicant will be appointed subject to references and enhanced DBS check (this is a position working in regulated activity). The successful candidate will be subject to a rigorous safer recruitment process and must adhere to a strict code of conduct regarding behaviour at all times. Shortlisted candidates will be subject to online searches in accordance with KCSIE 2025. The Foundation is also committed to promoting the spiritual, moral, social and cultural development of both students and staff and reflects life in Modern Britain.
Make a difference where it truly matters.
We are seeking an exceptional and values-driven Head of Corporate Compliance and Health & Safety to lead our organisation's strategic approach to compliance, governance, and safety across our network of specialist residential education settings.
Our Foundation provides education and care for children and young people with complex special educational needs and disabilities (SEND). Ensuring that every environment is safe, well-governed, and compliant is at the heart of how we support each pupil to thrive.
This is a high-impact leadership role, ideal for a confident professional with deep knowledge of compliance and health & safety in regulated environments, and a passion for improving standards in education and care.
About The Role
As our Head of Corporate Compliance and Health & Safety, you will:
* Lead the development and delivery of our compliance and health & safety strategy across all schools, colleges, and residential settings.
* Provide assurance to the Executive Team and Board that we meet our statutory obligations under Ofsted, HSE, and other relevant regulators.
* Oversee and continuously improve our compliance and safety management frameworks, policies, and systems.
* Act as the organisation's competent person for health & safety, ensuring that all staff and young people work and learn in safe, supportive environments.
* Work collaboratively with Heads, Principals, and Care Leaders to embed a proactive culture of safety, safeguarding, and accountability.
* Lead internal audits and support sites in preparing for external inspections and regulatory visits.
This is a strategic role with real operational impact; you will be comfortable advising at Senior Leadership level as well as supporting local teams to embed best practice.
Key Responsibilities
* Provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for compliance and health & safety across educational and residential settings.
* Ensure adherence to all statutory, regulatory, and internal policies, including safeguarding, GDPR, whistleblowing, and corporate governance.
* Act as the Foundation's competent person for Health & Safety, ensuring compliance with relevant legislation and supporting a safe environment for students and staff.
* Lead on the development and implementation of policies, risk assessments, audits, and incident investigations.
* Coordinate internal audits and respond to external inspections, providing assurance and action planning.
* Monitor and report on compliance and risk performance to senior leaders, governors, and trustees.
* Oversee contract management, estates compliance, and vehicle fleet operations.
* Build a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement through effective leadership, training, and cross-organisational collaboration.
About You
You will bring a strong blend of professional expertise and personal integrity. You will be a credible and approachable leader who thrives on collaboration and continuous improvement.
Were Looking For Someone With
* Significant experience leading compliance and/or health & safety in a regulated education, care, or health environment.
* A comprehensive understanding of Health & Safety legislation, Ofsted standards, and the legal frameworks governing special residential schools.
* A NEBOSH Diploma (or equivalent) and professional membership of IOSH (minimum MIOSH or equivalent).
* Excellent communication, leadership, and influencing skills, with the ability to engage effectively at all levels of the organisation.
* A passion for making a difference in the lives of children and young people with SEND.
Why Join Us?
At William Henry Smith Foundation, we are committed to delivering exceptional education and care in safe, nurturing, and inclusive environments. You will join a team of dedicated professionals who share a common purpose: helping every young person reach their full potential.
We Offer
* A competitive salary and benefits package
* Opportunities for professional development and continuous learning
* The chance to play a key role in shaping a culture of excellence and safety across our organisation
Application Information
Visits to the William Henry Smith Foundation are highly recommended. For further information on this post please contact the HR department. All our roles are by application via TES.com. We do not accept CVs. Please apply by visiting our vacancies page on the Foundation website: https://thesmithfoundation.org.uk/our-vacancies/
Closing date
09 November 2025, 11:55 PM
Job location: Huddersfield area and surrounding regions.
Notes: This description reflects the core responsibilities and requirements of the role; it does not include every task that may be assigned. The Foundation is an equal opportunity employer and committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults.
End of description.
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