Overview
We’re looking for an experienced and forward-thinking Health & Safety Manager to lead and develop our corporate approach to health and safety. This is a key role within the council, providing expert advice, assurance and leadership across all council services, from office environments to frontline operational teams across the district.
You will work collaboratively with managers, employees, elected members, trade unions and external partners to ensure we meet our statutory duties and maintain a positive, proactive safety culture.
This is a hybrid role, requiring approximately 50% of working time to be spent at NFDC premises across the district. Sometimes this can be higher and at short notice dependent on operational requirements.
Responsibilities
* Lead the development and implementation of the Council’s Health & Safety Strategy and associated policies.
* Provide competent advice to managers and senior leaders on all aspects of health, safety and wellbeing.
* Oversee risk management processes, including incident reporting, accident investigation, lone worker and audit programmes.
* Monitor compliance with legislation and best practice, proposing improvements where necessary.
* Deliver training and guidance to ensure employees understand their responsibilities and work safely.
* Produce clear reports and performance data for senior leadership and committees.
* Support business continuity, emergency planning and organisational resilience activity.
About You
* You will need to have a recognised Health & Safety qualification (e.g., NEBOSH Diploma or equivalent).
* Graduate membership of the Institution of Occupational Safety & Health (IOSH).
* Strong knowledge of UK health and safety legislation, ideally within a public sector or multi-service environment.
* Extensive experience leading or advising on complex H&S matters.
* Substantial experience of managing a team.
* Excellent communication skills and the ability to influence at all levels.
* A collaborative, solutions-focused approach with strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
* A current full UK driving license and access to your own vehicle at short notice to drive to any location across the district.
What’s in it for you?
* £45,511 – £48,731 per annum (up to £49,758 per annum for exceptional performance once in post).
* 27 – 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays plus an additional 5 days for 5 years local authority continuous service.
* Local Government Pension Scheme and AVC provision.
* Hybrid Working.
* Wide range of employee discounts at high street retailers, including supermarkets, stores and restaurants.
* A Cycle to Work scheme which could save you around 40 percent on cycles and accessories.
* Employee Assistance Programme (free 24 hour legal, financial and personal advice for employees).
* Buying and selling of annual leave.
About Us
As one of the largest districts in the country, with 6 towns and a close relationship with neighbouring conurbations, the New Forest provides a supportive environment in which everyone who works for us can help drive our aims.
At NFDC we believe that all our employees make a valuable contribution to the work of the council and that’s why we encourage a trusting and open culture where each employee is supported and respected equally, where ideas are actively sought and self-development promoted. We also recognise the value of a highly motivated and engaged workforce and we actively promote a good work/life balance. We’re keen to support career development and help all colleagues to be the best they can be.
We are proud of our values, please watch this short video to find out more.
To view full details of what you can expect from working for NFDC and to view the full job description, please click on the candidate pack attached. Click here to see why employees think that New Forest District Council is a great place to work: Working for NFDC.
This post requires a Basic DBS check to be completed.
How to apply
Closing date: 11pm on Wednesday 18th February 2026. Interview Date: Tuesday 3rd March 2026. To apply for this job please visit ce0395li.webitrent.com.
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