Director of QEHSS

Jackson Hogg are proudly supporting a specialist manufacturing business in the Durham area on a QHSE Director position, reporting to the Chief Operating Officer.

Our client is seeking an experienced QHSE Director to lead the QHSE and Security functions on site. A senior leadership position that requires strong leadership skills, the ability to engage with senior and executive leadership whilst ensuring compliance across all operational areas.

QHSE Director Responsibilities

• Develop, implement, and continuously improve integrated QEHSS strategies aligned with business objectives and regulatory requirements
• Act as trusted advisor to the Executive Leadership Team on all matters relating to quality, environmental impact, health & safety, and security risks
• Challenge existing practices and drive cultural change to embed QEHSS excellence throughout the organisation
• Lead the development of QEHSS policies, procedures, and management systems to world-class standards

Quality Assurance & Management

• Oversee comprehensive quality assurance programmes across all business operations
• Ensure compliance with ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards and maintain certification
• Oversee operations working to ISO 45001 standard principles
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives and operational excellence programmes
• Manage customer quality requirements and be the key interface with external auditors and certification bodies
• Develop and maintain quality protocols for space payload applications and aerospace/defence industry requirements
• Working knowledge of AS9100 certification requirements for Aviation, Space, and Defence (AS&D) industry standards

HSE & Leadership

• Serve as the statutory 'Responsible Person' for health and safety under relevant legislation
• Develop and maintain robust health and safety management systems
• Ensure compliance with all applicable health and safety regulations and standards
• Lead incident investigation, root cause analysis, and corrective action implementation
• Drive safety culture transformation and behavioural change programmes
• Develop and implement environmental management strategies and policies
• Ensure compliance with environmental legislation and permit conditions
• Drive sustainability initiatives and environmental impact reduction programs
• Manage environmental risk assessments and mitigation strategies

QHSE Director Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, Environmental Science, Occupational Health & Safety, or a related field, or demonstrable relevant experience
• Chartered status with relevant professional body (for example IOSH, IEMA, CQI)
• NEBOSH Diploma or equivalent health and safety qualification
• Working experience within the aerospace sector
• Lead Auditor certification for relevant ISO standards (i.e. ISO9001, ISO14001, ISO45001)
• Demonstrable evidence of continuous professional development
• Deep understanding of ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and working knowledge of ISO 45001 principles
• Knowledge of AS9100 certification requirements for aerospace, space, and defence industries
• Comprehensive knowledge of UK health and safety legislation and regulations
• Strong understanding of environmental law and sustainability principles
• Knowledge of information security principles, cybersecurity frameworks, and data protection regulations (GDPR)
• Experience with quality assurance methodologies and continuous improvement tools
• Understanding of quality protocols and highly regulated industry requirements