Tell us about your job in a nutshell
Safety is our first priority at Longcliffe and whilst my title is Health and Safety (H&S) Manager, the responsibility for safe operations sits with everyone.
My job is to keep updated on key changes to legislation and industry best practices. I ensure the company remains compliant with all health and safety related legal requirements. I also liaise with statutory regulatory bodies like the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
I develop, consult on, and deliver the company H&S management system. My work also includes obtaining the relevant accreditations and ensuring we are compliant with key standards - ISO 45001 and BAA AOS scheme.
It’s also important that we measure our H&S performance so we can demonstrate progress and identify ways in which we can improve. I develop initiatives to promote workforce involvement in H&S and provide advice and support to all our teams.
How has your career developed with Longcliffe?
I started with Longcliffe in 2004 as an apprentice in the transport garage. Once I had completed my Level 2 and Level 3 HGV repair and maintenance NVQ’s, I was a fully qualified member of the transport garage team. We moved to the new garage facility in 2013 and I remained there until 2019. Then I took on a role as the mobile plant maintenance supervisor at Brassington Moor Quarry. The position of H&S manager became available in 2022: I applied for it and got the job.
What training/qualifications do you have and what are the key skills you need to do your job?
I have a variety of H&S related qualifications: I am working towards my National Examination Board in Occupational Safety and Health (NEBOSH) level 6 national diploma for occupational health and safety management professionals; Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) Managing safely qualification; and a Level 5 certificate as an Operational Departmental Manager.
To successfully do my job you need good communication skills, both verbal and written; and good interpersonal skills. You need to be able to challenge H&S performance constructively. Other skills that are important are attention to detail and accuracy; self-motivation; a determination to see projects through to conclusion; the ability to influence and engage at all levels and use your initiative to identify and resolve issues.
What do you most enjoy about your job?
This job gives me a variety of different challenges every day. I love working across all our departments and engaging with colleagues in different roles and at different levels.
What are your career aspirations?
I want to continue to develop professionally and be in a position to support and improve Longcliffe as a business. Ultimately, I would like to hold a position on the board of directors at Longcliffe.
What would you say to anyone thinking of applying for a job with Longcliffe?
If you are after a company which prioritises its staff, provides a safe and healthy workplace, continually develops, and supports you throughout your career, offers great benefits such as health plans, subsidised leisure centre memberships – then Longcliffe is for you.