OverviewWe are looking for an ambitious SHEQ Director to lead, develop and deliver Bridges SHEQ (Safety, Health, Environment, and Quality) strategy across all areas of the business, including onsite turnkey construction and MEICA activities for Water projects across the UK, through to our manufacturing facilities and maintenance and breakdown teams. You will support the SLT in fostering a culture of zero harm and zero incidents through resilient SHEQ systems and practices. This role ensures full compliance with all regulations, with a particular focus on water industry regulations, and drives a proactive safety culture, environmental stewardship, and quality excellence across operations and capital delivery programs.Bridges is a growing, engineering-focused company recognized for its people and culture. We operate in sectors including Water, Power, Energy and Aggregates, supported by our regional offices and manufacturing hub in Somerset. Our projects range in value from £5k to £15m, and we hold roles as Principal Contractor and Principal Designer on various schemes, supporting Tier 1 contractors in subcontractor and off-site manufacturing capacities. As part of our team we shape and support engineering and construction for clients who touch the daily lives of millions of people across the UK. We value Safe People, Happy People, and Sustainable Business.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic SHEQ Leadership: Accountable for our Safe People, Environment and Quality plan and the ongoing development and implementation of an integrated SHEQ strategy aligned with corporate goals and regulations.Board and Leadership Advisory: Advise the board, senior leadership team and business on SHEQ risks, compliance obligations, and performance improvement; foster a culture of safety and operational integrity.Innovation and Digital: Champion innovative thinking and the use of technology, including AI and other new technologies, to advance safety and risk management.Framework Bids: Support and lead SHEQ elements of Framework bids.Regulatory Compliance & Risk ManagementEnsure full compliance with applicable legislation (e.g., Health and Safety at Work Act, ATEX and DSEAR, CDM, Water Industry Act, Environmental Permitting Regulations).Maintain relationships with regulatory bodies (e.g., DWI, HSE, EA, EN) and lead on audit responses, enforcement actions, and performance reporting.Oversee risk assessments and critical control frameworks for operational and high-risk activities (e.g., confined spaces, hazardous substances, process safety).Policy Development: Ensure policies are reviewed, updated and compliant with new and existing legislation.Environmental & Sustainability LeadershipLead environmental compliance and sustainability objectives, including emissions reduction, water efficiency, ecology and waste management.Ensure compliance with environmental permits and waste management legislation; support ESG strategy development and reporting in line with targets (e.g., Net Zero, Biodiversity Net Gain).Quality ManagementOversee the implementation and continual improvement of ISO 9001, 14001, 45001 management systems.Ensure robust quality assurance across the business; lead audits, investigations, and root cause analysis for continuous improvement.Operational Oversight & Incident ManagementProvide SHEQ leadership across the business; oversee incident investigations (pollution events, near misses, RIDDOR) and implement preventative actions; promote proactive hazard identification and behavioural safety engagement.Team Development & LeadershipLead and develop a high-performing SHEQ team across regions; deliver tailored SHEQ training strategies; promote cross-functional collaboration and integration of SHEQ into decision-making.Qualifications & ExperienceMinimum NEBOSH Diploma Certificate in Occupational Health & Safety.Degree in Occupational Health & Safety, Environmental Science, Engineering, or related discipline and/or Chartered IOSH member.Lead Auditor qualifications in ISO 9001, 14001, 45001.Minimum 10 years’ SHEQ experience, with at least 5 in a senior leadership role.Demonstrable experience in the water sector with understanding of regulators (Ofwat, DWI, EA, HSE).In-depth knowledge of water projects, construction processes including Civil & MEICA, and related Health, Safety and Environment legislation.Skills & CompetenciesEssentialAbility to operate at all levels, down-to-earth and willing to support activities that drive business success.Strong relationship-building with senior client management and SHEQ teams; strategic thinker with leadership and change management skills.Strong knowledge of water industry compliance requirements and SHEQ risks; positive industry reputation and ability to influence others.Business ambassador for SHEQ; able to chair and present to industry and customers.Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and analytical mindset; capable of working in both operational and board-level environments.Full UK Driving Licence and willingness/ability to travel or stay away from home when required.DesirableChartered IOSH member; member of risk and safety institutes.NEBOSH Level 6 Diploma (National or International) in Occupational Health & Safety Management.Experience with capital delivery programs and framework contracts; familiarity with digital SHEQ tools and data analytics.BenefitsBridges offers a competitive benefits package including: competitive salaries, company car/car allowance, health plan, pension scheme with company contribution, life assurance, employee discount, bike-to-work, training and development opportunities, and employee recognition schemes. We are RoSPA Gold Medal winner and hold the Armed Forces Covenant Gold Award. Bridges is an equal opportunity employer.Location & ApplicationLocation: United Kingdom (multiple offices including Yeovil, Bristol, Corsham, etc.). We are an equal opportunity employer and committed to equality and diversity in the workplace.Seniority level: Director • Employment type: Full-time • Industries: Non-profit Organizations and Primary and Secondary Education

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