Role Purpose
The SHEQ Manager (East) is responsible for leading, developing, and embedding a robust Health, Safety, Environmental and Wellbeing (HSE&W) culture across all operations in the Eastern region. The role ensures full compliance with statutory obligations, client standards, and company policies, while proactively driving continual improvement in safety performance across electrical engineering works within the water and wastewater sector.
This role provides strategic leadership, expert guidance, and operational oversight for all H&S matters, supporting safe delivery of projects involving high-risk electrical, mechanical, and confined-space activities.
At Bridges we are more than Engineers.
We are listed on the Sunday Times Top 100 Places to Work 2024.
As a team we shape and support engineering and construction for our clients who in turn touch the daily lives of millions of people across the UK. We have a large diverse team of talented Safe & Happy People, combining their strengths and ambition to bring innovation and evolution which ensures Sustainability for all stakeholders.
Across our key sectors – Water, Power, Energy and Aggregates, and supported through our regional office network supported by our manufacturing hub located in the heart of Somerset which forms part of our 60,000ft head office complex – we deliver diverse and interesting projects and programmes throughout UK infrastructure.
Our projects range in value from £5k to £15m, taking the role of Principal Contractor and Principal Designer on various schemes, and supporting our valued Tier 1 contractor clients in a subcontractor and off-site manufacturing capacity.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Strategy
* Develop and implement the regional Health & Safety strategy aligned with company objectives and industry best practice.
* Act as the senior H&S authority for the East region, providing visible leadership and promoting a positive safety culture.
* Advise senior management on H&S risks, trends, and performance, including board-level reporting.
Compliance & Governance
* Ensure compliance with all relevant UK legislation, including but not limited to:
o Health and Safety at Work Act
o CDM Regulations
o Electricity at Work Regulations
o Confined Spaces Regulations
o COSHH
* Maintain and continually improve the company’s H&S management system (e.g. ISO 45001).
* Lead external audits, client audits, and regulatory inspections.
Operational Oversight
* Provide expert H&S support to live water and wastewater projects, including:
o Electrical installation and commissioning
o Control panels and LV systems
o Pumping stations and treatment works
o Confined spaces and hazardous environments
o Civil Works
* Review and approve risk assessments, method statements (RAMS), and safe systems of work.
* Ensure contractor and supply chain compliance with company and client H&S requirements.
Incident Management & Assurance
* Lead investigations into accidents, incidents, and near misses, ensuring root causes are identified and corrective actions implemented.
* Monitor H&S performance metrics, trends, and leading indicators.
* Drive continuous improvement initiatives to reduce incidents and improve behavioural safety.
Training & Competence
* Oversee regional H&S training needs analysis and delivery, ensuring workforce competence.
* Support development of site managers, engineers, and supervisors in H&S leadership.
Client & Stakeholder Engagement
* Act as the primary H&S interface with water utility clients, regulators, and principal contractors.
* Support tender submissions and pre-qualification processes with H&S input.
* Build strong working relationships with operational teams and client H&S representatives.
Requirements
Essential
* NEBOSH Diploma (or equivalent Level 6 qualification).
* Chartered Member of IOSH (CMIOSH) or working towards prefered
* Strong working knowledge of electrical safety, high-risk activities, and CDM.
* Proven experience influencing senior stakeholders and operational teams.
* Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel regionally.
Desirable
* Experience working with major UK water authorities or framework contracts.
* ISO 45001 Lead Auditor qualification.
* Environmental management knowledge (ISO 14001).
* Experience leading multi-site or regional H&S teams.
Key Competencies
* Strategic leadership and decision-making
* Strong communication and influencing skills
* Practical, solutions-focused approach
* High level of integrity and professionalism
* Ability to balance compliance with operational delivery
Benefits
BENEFITS OF WORKING FOR BRIDGES
RoSPA Gold Medal winner, Bridges - is an excellent company to work for and a great place to develop your career. Our goal is to exceed the very highest standards and ensure our people work in a culture of health, safety and well-being.
We are currently holders of the Armed Forces Covenant Gold Award, which reinforces our commitment to supporting the armed forces community.
We are a family-run business with a friendly and welcoming culture, and we are dedicated to helping our employees learn, develop, and achieve success - along with us and throughout their careers.
Bridges also offers an excellent benefits package:
* Competitive salaries
* Health cash plan with Healthshield
* Standard Life Pension Scheme - 5% company contribution
* Life Assurance Scheme
* Employee Discount Scheme
* Bike 2 Work scheme
* Training and development opportunities
* Employee referral scheme - £1,000 if you successfully introduce someone
* Employee recognition schemes
* Enhanced Maternity and Paternity pay
When you join us, you’ll be part of our exciting journey.
Wherever your journey begins with us, through mutual engagement, we’ll make sure you are supported and invested in. We believe in ‘team bridges’ and leadership at all levels with our guiding principles: Safe People, Happy People, Sustainable Business.
Come and be part of our team!
Bridges is an equal-opportunity employer and is committed to ensuring equality and diversity within the workplace