Overview
Principal People have been exclusively retained to find a transformational Health & Safety Director for a dynamic, ambitious construction business. This is a rare opportunity for someone who wants full ownership of the H&S function and the chance to shape its future at a critical moment in the company’s growth, including structuring a solid H&S leadership team.
Salary: £120,000 £150,000 + Company Car/Car Allowance/ Travel Allowance, Bonus, Enhanced Pension, Private Healthcare
Start Date: Q1 2026 (notice dependent)
About the Business
This isn’t your typical construction company. Our client is forward-thinking, energetic, and ambitious, with a track record of rapid growth and innovation in the UK market. With a turnover of around £400 million, the business is delivering major residential projects, including student accommodation, senior living, and mixed‑use developments, with values ranging from £20 m to over £130 m. Offices are based in Central London, with live projects across major UK cities such as London, Leeds, Manchester and Birmingham. The company has ambitious plans to grow further, with diversification on their radar. There is a stable, dynamic and energetic leadership team that has already transformed the business from a £50 m contractor to a £500 m operation with ambition for further growth over the coming years; now they need someone to take Health & Safety to the next level.
The Role
Reporting directly to the CEO, and working closely with the MD, you will be a key member of the Senior Leadership Team. This is a high‑impact, high‑autonomy role, giving you the freedom and backing to reshape the H&S function, implement your vision, and embed a proactive, culture‑driven approach across the business.
You’ll lead a small but capable team of 8 safety professionals, with the ability to grow and develop the function in line with the company’s ambitions. This role is front‑facing and operational; you’ll be on‑site, in the London office, and engaging directly with project teams, construction directors, and senior leaders alike to get operations aligned.
What You’ll Do
* Take full ownership of Health & Safety across all projects and operations
* Bridge the gap between Safety and Build, aligning teams and creating a culture of collaboration
* Lead the team to proactively identify risks, implement data‑driven solutions, and drive continuous improvement
* Influence senior leadership and gain buy‑in across the business
* Introduce innovative technology and reporting systems to track and improve performance
* Conduct a gap analysis and implement a 3‑6‑month improvement plan
* Represent the H&S function at a strategic level, shaping how the business approaches safety
Who We’re Looking For
You are ambitious, energetic, and confident, with a track record of transforming H&S in construction environments. You thrive on ownership, influence, and making an impact.
Essential
* NEBOSH Diploma (or equivalent)
* Proven leadership experience in construction H&S
* Ability to influence and inspire senior leaders and project teams
* Experience building and developing high‑performing teams
* Energy, presence, and credibility to command respect on site and in the boardroom
* Experience managing an H&S Team
Desirable
* Experience in large construction or principal contracting organisations
* Track record of cultural change and transformation
* Familiarity with digital safety systems and data‑led reporting
Why This Role Is Exciting
* Be part of a growing, ambitious, and innovative construction business
* Lead a complete transformation of the H&S function
* Sit on the Senior Leadership Team and influence strategy at the highest level
* Shape, develop and mould a high‑performing team
* Have freedom and autonomy to deliver your vision and make a lasting impact
If this has spiked your interest, reach out today with your CV.
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