Head of Fire Safety

We’re seeking a highly experienced Head of Fire Safety to lead the fire safety strategy for Sodexo UK & Ireland.

In this role, you will drive the UK&I fire safety agenda, strengthen governance and assurance, and oversee competency standards for all fire‑related roles. As Sodexo’s fire safety authority, you’ll enhance our Fire Safety Operating Model and manage key external relationships, including our Primary Authority partnership.

You will ensure full compliance with fire safety legislation and act as the Competent Person under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. The role also supports local operational capability and provides oversight on the effectiveness of fire safety arrangements across our diverse portfolio.

This is a high‑impact leadership role for someone who excels at influencing at scale and delivering exceptional safety performance across complex environments.

Main Responsibilities

• Lead and implement the UK&I fire safety strategy and roadmap.
• Own, develop and maintain the fire safety governance model.
• Set clear standards and guidance for the operational business as part of the fire strategy.
• Define and maintain competency standards for all fire safety roles supporting business segments; measuring the effectiveness of resources allocated for fire safety.
• Provide authoritative technical support across high‑risk environments within the UK & I business assisting segment specific resource,
• Provide assurance in relation to fire risk mitigation effectiveness via frameworks, audits, compliance controls, and corrective actions.
• Act as senior escalation point for the Fire Authorising Engineer and Fire Safety Advisors.
• Support mobilisation, bids, PFI handbacks, and operational transitions.
• Maintain strategic relationships with the Primary Authority, regulators, insurers, and industry bodies. There are a range of fire safety regulators such as CPFSI, HSE, Local Fire Authorities and MoD based upon the client site/ contract arrangements.
• Lead a zero‑harm fire safety culture, ensuring fire safety best practice networks.

The Ideal Candidate

• A qualification in fire prevention or fire safety, e.g., a combination of both the NEBOSH National Certificate in Fire Safety and Risk Management and NEBOSH General Certificate or an equivalent level 4 RQF accredited fire risk assessment course.
• Membership of the Institution of Fire Engineers or Institute of Fire Safety Managers.

  (At least at the level of Member grade)

• Deep knowledge of UK&I fire legislation and frameworks.
• Proven experience in governance, assurance and risk management.

Package Description

Up to £90,000 depending on experience + bonus

Benefits

In addition, we offer 20+ Sodexo benefits such as Sodexo retirement plan, discounts to over 1,900 brands to shop online, Gym discount to maintain a healthy lifestyle, a confidential 24/7 employee assistance programme providing independent support to overcome whenever life has its obstacles including emotional support, legal and financial advice.

We’re all about building a workplace for the future, we believe in equal opportunities, and we celebrate diversity. We’re an inclusive workplace, where everyone is welcome, everyone can be natural, and be the best versions of themselves. We recognise that we’re on a journey with regards to diversity and inclusion and would therefore welcome applications for candidates from underrepresented backgrounds.

We’re a Disability Confident Leader employer. We’re committed to changing attitudes towards disability, and making sure disabled people have the chance to fulfil their aspirations. We run a Disability Confident interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria for the job.

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