Director of QEHSS

Filtronic plc is a leading designer and manufacturer of high-performance radio frequency (RF), microwave, and millimetre-wave (mmWave) subsystems, specialising in mission-critical communication networks. Since 1977, we have built a strong reputation as trusted partners to global technology leaders across the telecommunications infrastructure, aerospace and defence, space, and critical communications sectors. Our legacy of innovation and engineering excellence has positioned us at the forefront of advanced connectivity solutions worldwide, and we continue to grow as we deliver cutting-edge technology for some of the most exciting programmes in the industry.

What we are looking for:

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Director of QEHSS to lead our integrated Quality, Environment, Health & Safety, and Security functions. This is a senior leadership position that requires strategic thinking, exceptional leadership skills, and the ability to engage with senior and executive leadership whilst ensuring compliance across all operational areas.

The successful candidate will serve as the statutory 'Competent Person' under relevant health and safety legislation and will be accountable for developing and implementing comprehensive strategies that protect our people, assets, environment, and reputation whilst driving continuous improvement in quality assurance.

Requirements:
Strategic Leadership

• 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
• Experience of operating within VUCA business environments (Volatile, Uncertain, Complex, Ambiguous).

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 (preferred) of AS9100 certification requirements for Aviation, Space, and Defence (AS&D) industry standards

Health & Safety 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

Environment

• 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

Security & Risk Management

• Develop comprehensive security strategies covering physical, personnel, information, and operational security
• Oversee day-to-day site security operations including access control systems, alarm monitoring and CCTV
• Manage security incident response and act as primary liaison with external agencies including MoD/Cabinet Office, HSE, blue light services and Durham County Council
• Conduct security risk assessments and implement appropriate mitigation and countermeasures
• Administer security access control systems and manage security clearance requirements
• Develop and deliver security awareness training programmes
• Develop and deliver health and safety, fire warden, first aid and any other type of training aligned to QEHSS, in collaboration with our Training Lead.
• Ensure business continuity and crisis management preparedness
• Develop and test emergency response plans including evacuation and other procedures which may become relevant from time to time.
• Maintain detailed records and reporting as required by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
• Maintain detailed security incident records and reporting for both physical and cyber security events

Governance & Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with all relevant legislation, regulations, and industry standards
• Prepare and present regular reports to the Board and Executive Leadership Team as required
• Manage external regulatory relationships and inspections with organisation and suppliers
• Maintain professional development and stay current with regulatory changes and developments

Qualifications & Certifications

• 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

Experience

• Significant experience of working in a similar QEHSS role within manufacturing or technology
• Proven track record of developing and implementing integrated management systems
• Have served in statutory 'Responsible Person' role
• Demonstrated success in engaging with and influencing C-suite executives
• Track record of leading cultural change and transformation programmes
• Experience managing multi-disciplinary teams and complex stakeholder relationships

Technical Competencies

• Deep understanding of ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and working knowledge of ISO 45001 principles
• Knowledge of AS9100 certification requirements (preferred) 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 space payload quality protocols and highly regulated industry requirements
• Competency with QEHSS and security software systems, including CCTV and access control technologies
• Familiarity with cybersecurity risk management and incident response procedures

Benefits:
We recognise the value of exceptional talent. That's why this role is backed by an outstanding salary with senior management level bonus and benefits, benchmarked close to the top of the sector.

Please call Bruce Mair, our Talent Partner, on 07483 917543 (anytime) if you would like further details on this important role, or to clarify the salary and benefits package, before investing your time in applying.

Filtronic plc is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone can thrive. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or disability status. If you require any adjustments or accommodations to support you during the interview process, please let us know and we will be happy to assist.