Head of Health, Safety and Wellbeing

About this role

For more than a century, we have helped to turn possibility into reality. A catalyst for change, empowering individuals to realise their full potential and make meaningful contributions to society. Our in-house talent includes world-class researchers, internationally renowned academic leaders, and the job-ready students and graduates they cultivate. We offer industry-focused education, research and consultancy, backed up by campus-based innovation and tech hubs.

We are also integral to the economic and social fabric of Staffordshire, supporting regional growth through business collaborations and civic initiatives. We are entering an exciting new chapter as we position ourselves as the UK’s leading modern university. With a refreshed brand identity and a bold strategic vision, we are building a community that is ambitious, inclusive and genuinely transformative. As we continue to evolve our campuses, strengthen our culture and enhance the experience of circa 20,000 students and 1,400 staff.

We are seeking an exceptional leader to help shape the next stage of our journey, a pivotal leadership role within Corporate Services. As Head of Health, Safety and Wellbeing you will take the lead in creating, embedding and championing a strong, proactive safety culture across our diverse, multi‑site environment. The role is predominantly campus‑based, reflecting the importance of visible leadership, meaningful engagement with colleagues and students, and a deep understanding of how our spaces are used every day. Your presence on campus will be central to building trust, supporting managers, and ensuring that health, safety and wellbeing principles are lived across our community.

To thrive in this role, you will bring a relevant degree and a postgraduate health and safety qualification such as the NEBOSH Diploma, along with substantial generalist experience of both operational and strategic health and safety leadership in a large, complex organisation. You will have a proven ability to deliver improvement, influence at senior levels and engage constructively with a wide range of stakeholders. Your communication skills will be exceptional, whether providing specialist advice, producing high‑quality reports or presenting to committees. Crucially, you will be someone who leads with integrity, curiosity and ambition, reflecting the values that underpin the University of Staffordshire.

In return, you will join a vibrant, forward‑thinking institution that values collaboration, innovation and professional growth. You will make a meaningful contribution to shaping a safe, healthy and empowering environment for our entire community, with the opportunity to make a lasting impact during a period of significant progression and investment.

For further information about this role, please find the candidate briefing document here.

How to apply

We are being supported on this recruitment campaign by the search consultancy MRG. To arrange an initial conversation please contact our retained advisor - Sian Gardiner at sian.gardiner@mrgglobal.com. Applications should be sent via email to sian.gardiner@mrgglobal.com and should comprise a comprehensive CV accompanied by a supporting statement. 

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