Head of Health & Safety
At GES safety is more than compliance, it’s a commitment.
We are looking for an experienced and influential Head of Health & Safety to lead transformational change across our fast-paced events and exhibitions business.
Reporting directly to the Head of Planning, you will play a pivotal leadership role in shaping and embedding a proactive safety culture across multiple locations, venues and international projects.
This is an exceptional opportunity for a confident Health & Safety professional who thrives in dynamic environments, enjoys building strong relationships, and is passionate about driving behavioural and cultural change at every level of the organisation.
Who we are:
GES is a global full-service provider for the exhibitions industry. We deliver extraordinary event experiences through partnership-driven productions.
Our vision is to grow with our customers and create a truly sustainable future for events. Introducing innovative technology that opens opportunities for stakeholders to thrive. We want to ensure that the Events Industry continues to thrive in partnership with our people and planet.
The Opportunity
As Head of Health & Safety, you will lead the implementation, development and continuous improvement of all health and safety systems, processes and standards across the business. You will influence senior stakeholders, advise leadership teams on emerging legislation and industry trends, and ensure operational excellence across all UK and European activities.
You will be highly visible across the organisation, supporting projects, conducting audits, leading investigations, delivering training, and championing best practice to help achieve strategic business goals.
You will be responsible for:
Leadership & Strategy
Lead and embed a positive health & safety culture across the business
Drive behavioural change initiatives focused on prevention and continuous improvement
Advise senior leadership on regulatory changes, trends and risk management strategies
Deliver bi-monthly executive reports to the Senior Vice President
Represent the business at external forums and industry events
Compliance & Governance
Conduct planned and unannounced audits across events, divisions and locations
Produce audit reports, action plans and monitor remedial actions through to completion
Maintain and improve ISO 45001 compliance standards
Manage external audit non-conformances and corrective actions
Oversee fire risk assessment programmes and ensure all statutory reviews are completed
Ensure all health & safety policies and documentation remain current and compliant
Incident Management
Lead accident and incident investigations
Liaise with insurance partners regarding investigations and outcomes
Report serious incidents to senior management promptly and effectively
Training & Development
Design and deliver internal training programmes including:
New starter inductions
Fire warden training
Accident investigation training
Support managers with external training recommendations
Coach leaders and managers to promote safe working practices
Operational Support
Provide expert health & safety guidance for:
New premises
Event venues
Client requirements
Facilities management
Support operational teams across UK and overseas
Travel throughout the UK and internationally when required
What We are Looking For:
Essential Qualifications
NEBOSH General Certificate
NEBOSH Fire Certificate (or equivalent)
Strong understanding of UK & European Health & Safety legislation
Desirable Qualifications
Relevant vocational qualification
GCSE Maths & English (or equivalent)
Essential Experience & Skills
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced operational environment
Experience within the exhibitions and events industry
Strong initiative and ability to work independently
Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
Proven experience influencing leaders and driving cultural change
Confident conducting audits, investigations and compliance reviews
Why Join Us?
Competitive salary based on experience and expertise
25 days annual leave plus bank holidays
Opportunity to shape safety strategy across an international business
Diverse and exciting work environment within the events industry
Career development in a highly visible leadership role
International travel opportunities
Our Commitment
At GES we are committed to creating a workplace where safety, collaboration and continuous improvement are at the heart of everything we do.
Equal Opportunities
In compliance with our commitment to diversity and inclusivity, we actively encourage applications from all qualified individuals regardless of age, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, disability, religion, or any other characteristic protected by law. We firmly believe in equal opportunities for all and strive to create a workplace where every individual can thrive and contribute their unique perspectives and talents.
Discrimination of any form will not be tolerated in our recruitment process, and we are dedicated to fostering an environment that values diversity and promotes fairness and equity for all applicants. Join us in our mission to build a diverse and inclusive workforce where everyone can succeed.
If you’re ready to make a lasting impact and lead health & safety excellence across a global events business, we’d love to hear from you.