Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Manager

Job Purpose

The King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) is a world-renowned private university located in Thuwal, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. KAUST Beacon Development (KBD) is a fast-growing environmental consulting arm of the University with hundreds of consultants supported by a large number of contractors, field staff and service providers. KBD supports critical development projects for Giga-projects, government and corporate entities in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. KBD consulting work includes, but is not limited to the development of algal biotechnology, fisheries and aquaculture, mining, and environmental impact assessment in the marine and terrestrial fields. The Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) Manager position is responsible for the overall HSE management of this consulting arm of KAUST.

This position will lead a team of HSE specialists to maximize safety culture across KBD. Acts as the lead reviewer and approver of risk assessments and mitigation plans. Coordinates with internal and external stakeholders in creating safe workplaces. The incumbent is responsible for the development and implementation of local occupational health and safety and environmental procedures, as well as industry-accepted practices.

Major Accountabilities

• Leadership: Develop and implement local plans and procedures to enhance HSE culture across the workforce including contractors and service providers.
• Risk Assessment: Conduct regular risk assessments to identify potential HSE hazards and develop mitigation plans to avoid or minimize risks.
• Training: Develop and implement HSE training programs for department personnel.
• Inspections and Audits: Undertake risk-based inspections and audits including third-party facilities and equipment.
• Staff Mentoring: Provide coaching and guidance for junior HSE staff.
• Emergency Planning and Response: Develop and maintain local emergency response plans and coordinate emergency drills.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure compliance with local, national, and international HSE regulations, codes, and standards applicable to departmental operations.
• Collaboration and Innovation: Actively cooperate with HSE staff across the organization, as well as with internal and external stakeholders to promote HSE goals. Work with heads of Marine and Terrestrial Leads, and Field Services Team to ensure HSE plans are cascaded to all employees and contractors. Stay up to date on the latest industry innovation and apply it where relevant.
• Service Oriented Approach: Foster a culture of customer service within the HSE client, emphasizing responsiveness, professionalism, and collaboration in all interactions.
• Consistent Program Implementation: Establish a structured process for identifying and addressing HSE challenges, including coordinating and leading the implementation of University-wide HSE policies and procedures.
• Key Performance Indicators (KPI): Develop, implement, monitor and continuously report department-specific KPIs.
• Continuous Improvement: Monitor performance metrics and KPIs to evaluate the effectiveness of HSE programs and implement continuous improvement initiatives as needed.

Person Requirements

Competencies

• Ability to adapt to changing circumstances and priorities while maintaining a focus on achieving key objectives.
• Comprehensive knowledge of HSE codes, standards, regulations, as well as best practices.
• Demonstrated leadership skills within a consensus-building organization effectively coaching team members and inspiring teamwork within his/her direct areas of responsibility and laterally among other work teams.
• Strong problem-solving skill, an individual must be capable of accurately assessing needs, maintaining a calm business demeanor, and taking quick action to resolve issues.
• Ability and willingness to work outside normal office hours and work away from the office including travel to remote project sites.
• Proficiency in English and Arabic, both written and spoken.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in Health, Safety and Environment field, or related disciplines.
• Master’s Degree in Health, Safety and Environment preferred.
• International certification in applicable HSE areas (i.e. ISO 4500, ISO 14001) desirable.

Experience

• At least seven years of experience in a similar role.
• Strong knowledge in health, safety, and environmental governance and compliance.
• Experience with planning and implementing Health, Safety and Environmental management systems.
• Experience in leading Health, Safety and Environment team members.
• Track record of developing and implementing performance metrics to assess HSE program effectiveness.