About the Company
User Centric Design Ltd (UCD) is a Human Factors and Safety consultancy that has experienced significant growth over the past six years, building a strong reputation with clients who repeatedly return to us for support on new and complex projects. Our business is founded on ethical practice, personal integrity, and the recruitment of exceptional Human Factors and Safety professionals. These values guide every decision we make - from how we treat our people, to how we work with clients, and to how we consider our impact on the environment. We are committed to fostering a culture of openness, inclusion, and diversity. We believe that people from different backgrounds and cultures bring unique perspectives that strengthen our work and our organisation. We are committed to fostering a culture of openness, inclusion, and professional growth.
About the Role
As the Head of Human Factors, you will provide strategic leadership and technical authority for Human Factors across UCD. You will be accountable for setting the Human Factors vision, maintaining technical standards, assuring delivery quality, and supporting the continued growth of UCD as a leading Human Factors consultancy within safety‑critical environments.
Responsibilities
* Define, own, and evolve UCD’s Human Factors strategy, standards, and methodologies
* Act as technical authority for Human Factors across all projects and client engagements
* Provide assurance and oversight of Human Factors deliverables to ensure regulatory and client expectations are met
* Support bid development, proposal writing, and scope definition for Human Factors work
* Engage with clients as a trusted advisor on Human Factors Integration and safety‑critical design
* Represent UCD at design reviews, assurance panels, and senior governance forums
Leadership and Capability Development
You will be a natural leader, specifically you will:
* Lead, mentor, and develop the Human Factors team including Principal, Senior, and Junior consultants
* Set clear technical expectations and provide coaching to ensure consistent, high‑quality delivery
* Support recruitment, onboarding, and succession planning for the HF capability
* Champion UCD’s values as set out in our Credo, fostering a psychologically safe, supportive environment with a strong focus on client delivery and commercial awareness
Technical Scope
* Human Factors Integration
* Planning and governance
* Task Analysis, Error Identification, and Human Reliability Analysis
* Usability engineering and user‑centred design assurance
* Safety case and assurance support in regulated environments
* Development of HF standards, guidance, and training
Security and Regulatory Requirements
Due to the nature of UCD’s work, the role requires eligibility for UK Security Clearance. Minimum requirement is Security Check (SC); Developed Vetting (DV) is desirable for some client engagements. Candidates must be Sole British nationals with no restrictions on obtaining security clearance. Compliance with client, site, and regulatory security requirements is mandatory.
Skills and Experience
* Extensive experience delivering Human Factors in safety‑critical or highly regulated environments
* Proven experience operating as a technical authority or lead HF practitioner
* Strong knowledge of HF integration, HRA, task and error analysis, and usability engineering
* Excellent report writing, presentation, and stakeholder‑management skills
* Established and trusted relationships with clients, with the credibility to strengthen existing partnerships and create new opportunities for UCD
* Ability to balance strategic leadership with hands‑on technical involvement
Qualifications
* Degree or postgraduate qualification in Human Factors, Ergonomics, Psychology, or a related discipline
* Professional membership of a relevant body (e.g. CIEHF) is desirable
* Chartered or working towards Chartered status is advantageous
Reporting Line
The Head of Human Factors reports to the UCD Director(s) and works closely with senior leadership to shape the technical, cultural, and strategic direction of the business.
Pay range and compensation package
People are UCD’s greatest asset, and we offer a competitive package designed to attract and retain exceptional talent.
* Salary and Bonus: Up to £90,000 per annum, plus individual and business performance‑related bonus (dependent on skills and experience)
* Annual Leave: 25 days of paid leave to rest and recharge
* Bank Holidays: Take them when they suit you, allowing flexibility around your life
* Flexible Working: We consider part‑time hours and flexible arrangements - please indicate your preference in your application
* Pension: Employer pension contributions included
* Professional Membership: Reimbursement of fees for one relevant professional body
* Training Budget: £1,000 annual personal training and development allowance
* Share Options: Opportunity to participate in company share schemes
Equal Opportunity Statement
UCD is committed to diversity and inclusivity.