Health and Safety Manager / Health and Safety Manageress

Job Opportunity: HSE Manager

Independent Forgings and Alloys Ltd (IFA), one of Europe's foremost precision forging companies, is seeking a Health, Safety & Environmental (HSE) Manager to join its Sheffield-based operation. IFA is distinguished as the only single-site forge in the world with open-die radial, press, hammer, and ring rolling capabilities, as well as closed-die extrusion, drop stamp, and blade forging. With extensive capabilities in forging, machining, and testing, IFA provides a fully integrated metals service centre, supplying critical components to sectors such as aerospace, defense, energy, and other highly regulated industries.

Company Overview

IFA uniquely holds the status of being the only single-site forge equipped with an array of capabilities including open-die radial, press, hammer, ring rolling, closed-die extrusion, drop stamp, and blade forging. Through comprehensive forging and manufacturing processes, IFA provides a seamless metals service from ingot and billet production to fully tested and released machined products.

The Role

W Talent Manufacturing & Engineering is supporting IFA in their search for an experienced and influential HSE Manager. This role involves leading the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of the site's HSE strategy. Reporting directly to the Engineering Director, you will be responsible for ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation, maintaining ISO 14001 and 45001 standards, and driving best practices across a complex manufacturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Health & Safety Leadership:
  • Develop and implement the company's Health & Safety strategy, aligning safety objectives with business goals.
  • Ensure compliance with all UK Health & Safety legislation, including PUWER, LOLER, COSHH, RIDDOR, and Working at Height regulations.
  • Review and enhance policies, procedures, and safe systems of work.
  • Lead incident investigations, conduct root cause analysis, and implement corrective action programs.
  • Monitor and report HSE performance through KPIs and management reporting.
  • Manage emergency preparedness arrangements and response plans.
• Environmental Management:
  • Maintain and enhance the ISO 14001 Environmental Management System.
  • Ensure compliance with environmental legislation, permits, and reporting requirements.
  • Lead environmental risk assessments and sustainability improvement initiatives.
  • Manage waste, recycling, and environmental performance programs.
  • Drive reduction in environmental impact, emissions, and resource consumption.
  • Liaise with external regulatory bodies, including the Environment Agency as required.
• Auditing & Compliance:
  • Develop and deliver comprehensive HSE audit, inspection, and behavioral observation programs.
  • Support customer, third-party, and regulatory audits.
  • Manage corrective action tracking and ensure timely closure of findings.
  • Conduct legal compliance reviews and provide recommendations to senior leadership.
• Operational Support & Training:
  • Collaborate with Production, Engineering, Maintenance, and Quality teams to support safe operational practices.
  • Provide guidance on occupational health risks including noise, vibration, dust, fumes, and manual handling.
  • Support contractor management and permit-to-work systems.
  • Identify and deliver HSE training requirements across the organization.
  • Coach managers and supervisors to enhance safety leadership capabilities.
  • Promote employee engagement and behavioral safety initiatives.

Role Requirements

A NEBOSH National Diploma or equivalent Level 6 Health & Safety qualification is preferred, alongside demonstrable HSE management experience within a heavy manufacturing environment. Candidates should possess a strong understanding of UK Health & Safety and Environmental legislation, with proven experience in leading HSE audits, compliance reviews, and accident investigations. Chartered IOSH membership (CMIOSH) and a Lead Auditor qualification in ISO 45001 and/or ISO 14001 are necessary. Experience within forging, steel, aerospace, or engineering environments is advantageous, as is a history of improving safety culture and employee engagement. Strong leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills are essential.

What's on Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• The opportunity to shape and influence the Health, Safety, and Environmental agenda across the site.
• A chance to work for a company undergoing significant expansion and capital investment.
• A role where you can take full accountability for driving safety improvements within the organization.

To apply, apply online using the form below. Please note that only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

This position is being recruited exclusively by W Talent Recruitment, who will conduct the initial pre-screening process. For further information, please contact Joe Walton at W Talent.