Regional Head of SHEQ

Matchtech

Our tier 1 Water contractor client are seeking a Regional Head of SHEQ to be based on their Severn Trent Water framework with hybrid working available.

They are seeking an experienced, forward‑thinking Regional Head of SHEQ to lead Safety, Health, Environment and Quality across the East Midlands. This is a pivotal leadership role, shaping SHEQ strategy and culture across a major UK water sector programme. Hybrid working is available, with regular presence across regional project sites.

You will report to the Regional Framework Director, with a key strategic link to the SHEQ & Sustainability Director UK. As the senior SHEQ leader for the region, you will foster a high‑performing, collaborative culture across teams, partners, and client-helping to drive excellence, innovation and continuous improvement throughout AMP8 and beyond.

Responsibilities

Lead the delivery, monitoring and review of the company SHEQ strategy and associated action plans at regional level.
Represent client as the SHEQ Lead for the Severn Trent Water framework, promoting best practice across One Supply Chain partners.
Identify regional SHEQ focus areas and work with the Divisional and Regional Heads to set measurable, outcome-driven improvement targets.
Provide strategic direction and expert SHEQ guidance to the Senior Management Team, client representatives and regional SHEQ teams.
Champion and embed the Cultural Development Programme to strengthen behaviours, ownership and engagement across the region.
Set clear expectations, roles and responsibilities for the SHEQ team, ensuring robust professional development pathways and succession planning.
Lead by example and be a visible advocate for client and Severn Trent SHEQ standards, values and behaviours.
Promote cross-functional collaboration, open communication and a culture of continuous improvement.
Maintain, improve and assure the effectiveness of SHEQ Management Systems
Organise, support and deliver internal and external audits, inspections and assurance activities.
Ensure robust identification, assessment and control of SHEQ risks throughout project lifecycles.
Build and maintain strong, positive relationships with Severn Trent Water, supply chain partners and internal teams.
Influence and support client and partner change activities, ensuring SHEQ is fully embedded in new initiatives and delivery processes.
Integrate effectively with project teams to understand operational challenges and drive proactive SHEQ solutions.
Promote collaborative working across the One Supply Chain network to share learning and elevate standards region-wide.
Lead benchmarking, performance trending, data analysis and presentation of key indicators to drive informed decision making.
Identify opportunities for sustainable, innovative SHEQ solutions aligned to AMP8 priorities.
Use data intelligently to highlight risks, performance gaps and improvement opportunities.
Drive innovation in SHEQ processes and digital solutions to enhance effectiveness and efficiency.

Skills/experience/qualifications

Proven experience managing a multi-disciplinary SHEQ team in construction, utilities or a similar environment.
Strong leadership capability with experience influencing senior stakeholders and complex project teams.
NEBOSH Diploma (or equivalent).
Competent and trained risk assessor with an environmental qualification.
Chartered member of IOSH (CMIOSH)
Ability to collect, analyse and interpret large volumes of data with accuracy and insight.
Excellent communication and relationship‑building skills at all organisational levels.
Strong understanding of SHE legislation, ACoPs and industry standards.
High level of competence with Microsoft Office tools, particularly Visio, Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
Organised, adaptable, and confident making decisions while recognising when escalation is appropriate.

Benefits

Salary £70-80k
Bonus
Car allowance
Hybrid Working (site, office and home)
25 days holiday + Bank Holidays (with an additional 5 days available to buy)
Contribution Pension scheme
Life Assurance
Health Insurance
Private Medical Insurance