Safety and Compliance Manager

Location: United Kingdom – Hybrid (Ideally based near one of our offices in South Cerney, Cotswolds or Hitchin, Hertfordshire)
Full Time: 5 days/week
Purpose of the Position
To lead and manage the organisation’s risk, compliance, and health & safety functions, ensuring full compliance with UK legislation and best practice. The role is responsible for maintaining and improving management systems (ISO 9001, 14001, 45001), managing sub-contractor compliance, achieving and maintaining accreditations (SafeContractor, Constructionline), completing supplier questionnaires, and providing group safety reporting. The position adds value by safeguarding people, assets, and reputation, and by supporting operational efficiency and business growth.
Key Responsibilities
Management Systems- Develop, implement, and maintain ISO 9001 (Quality), ISO 14001 (Environmental), and ISO 45001 (Occupational Health & Safety) management systems
Lead internal and external audits, ensuring ongoing certification and continual improvement
Maintain all documentation and records in line with UK standards and regulatory requirements
Risk & Compliance- Identify, assess, and manage organisational risks, ensuring compliance with all relevant UK legislation (including Health & Safety at Work Act, CDM Regulations, and Environmental Protection Act)
Develop and deliver compliance training and awareness programmes for staff and contractors
Act as the main point of contact for regulatory bodies and external auditors
Sub-contractor & Supplier Management- Oversee sub-contractor approval, onboarding, and ongoing compliance, including review of RAMS (Risk Assessments and Method Statements), insurance, and training records
Manage supplier and sub-contractor questionnaires, ensuring all required information is collected and verified
Conduct regular audits and site inspections of sub-contractors and suppliers
Accreditations- Lead the process for achieving and maintaining accreditations such as SafeContractor, Constructionline, CHAS, and other relevant schemes
Prepare and submit documentation, coordinate site visits, and address any non-conformities
Group Safety Reporting- Collate, analyse, and report on safety performance metrics for the UK business and group-level reporting
Investigate incidents, near misses, and non-conformities, ensuring root cause analysis and corrective actions are implemented
Prepare regular reports for senior management and group H&S forums
Continuous Improvement- Drive a culture of continuous improvement in risk, compliance, and H&S performance
Keep up to date with changes in UK legislation, standards, and best practice, and implement necessary changes
Key Relationships
Direct report to Senior Management.
Functional links with Operations, HR, Technical, and Administration departments
Liaison with external auditors, regulatory bodies, clients, suppliers, and sub-contractors
Education & Experience
NEBOSH Diploma or equivalent in Occupational Health & Safety
Lead Auditor qualification in ISO 9001, 14001, and/or 45001 (desirable)
Proven experience in a similar role within the UK, ideally in construction, engineering, or manufacturing
Experience managing accreditations and compliance schemes (SafeContractor, Constructionline, etc.)
Skills & Competencies
Strong knowledge of UK H&S, environmental, and quality legislation and standards
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage staff at all levels
Analytical and problem-solving skills
Ability to work independently and as part of a team
Strong organisational and project management skills
Additional Requirements
Willingness to travel to company sites and supplier locations across the UK
Full UK driving licence
Important Notice
Applicants must already have the right to work in the United Kingdom, as we do not offer visa sponsorship for this position.
SOCOMEC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law. We believe in creating a work environment where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity.