Health, Safety & Wellbeing Manager (18 Months FTC)
DS Smith Kemsley Paper Mill – the largest recycled paper mill in the UK and one of Europe’s most advanced – plays a vital role in our purpose of Redefining Packaging for a Changing World. Producing over 800,000 tonnes of recycled paper each year, Kemsley is a complex, high‑performing industrial site where safety, sustainability and innovation go hand in hand.
We are now seeking a passionate and experienced Health, Safety & Wellbeing Manager to join our leadership team and drive excellence across all areas of health, safety and wellbeing. You will be responsible for setting the strategic direction, embedding best practice and ensuring our people go home safe and well every day. This is a key, visible role on site, where you’ll combine technical expertise with authentic leadership – engaging teams, influencing culture and ensuring that safety and wellbeing remain at the heart of every decision we make.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead, develop and continuously improve the site’s Health, Safety and Wellbeing strategy in alignment with DS Smith Group standards and legal requirements.
* Champion a proactive safety culture that empowers employees to take ownership of their own and others’ safety.
* Provide professional guidance, coaching and support to managers and teams at all levels.
* Oversee the development and implementation of risk assessments, safe systems of work and incident investigations.
* Lead site audits, inspections and behavioural safety initiatives, ensuring learnings are shared and embedded.
* Drive wellbeing initiatives that promote mental, physical and emotional health and create a positive and inclusive work environment.
* Collaborate closely with internal stakeholders, external partners and regulatory bodies to maintain compliance and share best practice.
* Analyse safety data and performance trends to identify areas for improvement and deliver measurable results.
* Support business continuity and emergency preparedness planning.
About You
We’re looking for a confident, forward‑thinking Health & Safety professional who can make an impact – someone who combines technical excellence with strong leadership and communication skills.
Essential Skills and Experience
* Proven experience in a senior Health & Safety leadership role, ideally within manufacturing, heavy industry or a similar high‑risk environment.
* NEBOSH Diploma (or equivalent) qualification.
* In‑depth knowledge of UK Health & Safety legislation, compliance requirements and management systems such as ISO 45001.
* Strong interpersonal, influencing and coaching skills – able to engage teams at all levels.
* A continuous improvement mindset, with a track record of driving cultural change and embedding best practice.
Desirable
* Chartered Membership of IOSH (CMIOSH) or working towards.
* Experience leading wellbeing strategy and initiatives.
* Environmental awareness or combined EHS experience.
What We Can Offer You
* Competitive salary
* Qualifying Sick Pay scheme
* Pension scheme & Life insurance
* Share Save scheme
* Income protection
* 25 days holiday plus Bank Holidays
* Employee Assistance Programme
* Virtual GP, Occupational Health & free Flu vaccine
* Cycle to Work and shopping discounts
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