Safety, Health and Environmental Business Partner | Runcorn

We are looking for a Safety, Health and Environmental Business Partner to join our manufacturing site in Runcorn, Cheshire. With significant investment underway to expand and enhance our cabinet and panel manufacturing capabilities, this is an exciting opportunity to be part of our growth journey. We are looking for a dedicated professional to help shape the future of the Runcorn site, ensuring a safe, compliant, and high-performing work environment.

In this role, you will provide expert safety, health, and environmental (SHE) management support, offering guidance to our manufacturing and warehousing operations. You will ensure compliance with internal systems, legislative requirements, and external certification standards while proactively identifying risks, evaluating site controls, and monitoring the effectiveness of SHE systems.

As the primary point of contact for health, safety, and environmental matters, you will identify necessary development opportunities and share specialist knowledge with site teams. Building strong relationships with key stakeholders will be essential for success in this cross-functional role. You should be confident working independently, know when to escalate issues, and always acting with integrity, professionalism, and a commitment to delivering a first-class service.

Why Join Howdens as a SHE Business Partner:

At Howdens, we believe in creating a safe and sustainable working environment for all our employees. As a market leader in the joinery industry, we are committed to excellence in Safety, Health, and Environment (SHE). Join us, and you’ll be part of a dynamic team that values professional growth, innovation, and continuous improvement.

As a SHE Business Partner, you will have the opportunity to make a real impact, ensuring the highest safety and environmental standards while working in a fast-paced and rewarding environment.

What will you be doing as a SHE Business Partner:

Reporting to the Senior SHE Manager, you will be the Site Subject Matter Expert (SME) for Safety, Health, and Environmental compliance. Your key responsibilities will include:

• Driving a positive safety culture, influencing change, and promoting best practices across the site and with key site stakeholders.
• Helping to set the site strategy and direction for SHE and establishing key objectives.
• Providing expert advice on all SHE matters, ensuring compliance with legal requirements and internal systems.
• Conducting SHE inspections and audits to identify risks and drive continuous improvements.
• Monitoring site adherence to key SHE performance indicators.
• Supporting local site teams with the development of Risk Assessments and Safe Systems of Work.
• Supporting incident investigation and managers in implementing corrective actions.
• Developing and delivering training to ensure teams are equipped with the necessary SHE knowledge.
• Liaising with regulatory bodies, ensuring the site meets all compliance and industry standards.
• Overseeing occupational health and hygiene monitoring, ensuring the well-being of all employees.

What do you need to qualify for the SHE Advisor role:

Essential:

• 3-5 years’ experience in a similar SHE role within a fast-paced working environment.
• NEBOSH General Certificate in Occupational Health & Safety.
• Certificate in Environmental Management (e.g. IEMA)
• Strong knowledge of ISO 45001 (Occupational Health & Safety) and ISO 14001 (Environmental Management).
• Experience in delivering H&S and Environmental training.
• Full UK driving licence.

Desirable:

• NEBOSH Diploma or equivalent in Occupational Health & Safety.
• Diploma in Environmental Management.
• ISO 45001 and ISO 14001 Auditor qualifications.
• Chartered Membership of IOSH (Institution of Occupational Safety and Health).

What can we offer you as a SHE Advisor:

• Competitive Salary + Bonus.
• Pension Plan with a maximum company contribution of 12%.
• 25 days holiday + bank holidays with an opportunity to purchase additional days.
• Staff discount.
• Ongoing support and development.
• Free lunch at our onsite canteen.
• Free onsite car parking.
• Friendly and supportive environment offering exceptional reward and recognition.

How to Apply:

Grade | 5

Hiring Manager | James Harvey

Good luck with your application. Before you apply, please speak to your manager, so that they are aware of your interest in this role. You will also need to attach a CV as part of your application. Please take note that this advert is a summary of the main duties and responsibilities and may be subject to change. If you have any questions or need further support or information, please contact the Hiring Manager or the Recruitment Team.

You will need to activate your account when you apply for this role. Please check your email carefully to ensure that you have completed this step. We are unable to view your application if you have not activated your account.

Howdens is founded on the principle of being Worthwhile for ALL concerned. We’re working hard to ensure we provide an inclusive environment where everyone feels welcome. We will do everything we can to support you during your application. If you need us to make any adjustments to our recruitment process, please email recruitmentteam@howdens.com with the job title and location, and we will be happy to help you.