Health & Safety Advisor

CVS Group plc is an AIM listed, international integrated veterinary services provider which delivers to clients through four business areas; our veterinary practices, diagnostic laboratories, pet crematoria and e-commerce division. Our success is derived from the passion our people have for animals and for making pets a priority, it's what is at the heart of our work, every day.

The Group generates revenue of more than £600m from 450 practices across the UK and Australia, with more than 8,500 employees across vets, nurses, other clinical employees and within our support office. In a growing pet market, we are well positioned for both organic and acquisitive growth, and significant investment projects are in progress to enhance our infrastructure and central support for the Group.

Summary of the role:

Provide competent expert knowledge and skills in order to generate and promote a positive health and safety culture and control occupational risk within the CVS Group.

This is a field based position covering North East England and Scotland, and therefore significant travel will be required.

Key Responsibilities and Tasks:

• Policy & Compliance: Ensure all health & safety legislation is adhered to, reviewing and updating policies and procedures as required.
• Risk Management: Conduct and review risk assessments, identifying hazards and implementing preventative measures to minimize accidents and operational risks.
• Audits & Investigations: Carry out health & safety audits, inspections, and accident investigations, ensuring corrective actions are implemented.
• Fire Safety: Review fire risk assessments, support site teams in implementing necessary controls, and promote fire safety awareness.
• Training & Leadership: Develop and deliver training for managers and employees on health & safety best practices, ensuring compliance at all levels.
• Incident Reporting: Maintain accurate records of incidents, accidents, and near misses, producing reports and identifying trends to improve workplace safety.
• Committee Management: Chair and maintain health & safety committees, ensuring effective communication and documentation of key actions.
• Regulatory Guidance: Keep up to date with health & safety legislation, advising senior management on necessary changes and best practices.
• Stakeholder Support: Act as a key point of contact for health & safety queries, providing expert advice to all levels of staff.
• External Liaison: Work with third-party assessors (e.g., radiation protection, gas monitoring) and enforcing authorities, taking necessary action on findings.

Key Skills:

• Qualification in occupational health and safety, ideally level 6;
• Previous experience in a similar multi-site role/environment;
• Good understanding of the application of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 and other legislation relevant to the Company's business;
• IT literate with a comprehensive understanding of Windows based programmes to include Word, Excel and Outlook;
• Strong organisational, motivational and administration skills;
• Ability to produce reports and develop relevant policies;
• Good knowledge of data analysis and risk assessment;
• Attention to detail and observational abilities;
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities;
• Ability to think and act on a strategic level
• Ability to effectively influence others;

In addition to an attractive salary, we offer a range of company benefits including:

• 6 weeks leave a year (5 weeks annual leave + Bank Holidays or equivalent time off)
• You will gain an extra days annual leave every year in your first 5 years of employment, taking you up to 7.6 weeks leave a year
• Pension matched up to 6%
• Health cash plan – money saved on everyday health treatments
• You can also buy up to 2 weeks additional leave or sell 1 week's leave each year with our Buy/Sell holiday scheme
• This means you can take up to 8.6 weeks holiday a year when starting, rising to a maximum of 9.6 weeks after 5 years' service
• A range of flexible benefits to suit your needs, including discounted gym membership, childcare vouchers and much more!

CVS is committed to being a fully inclusive place to work where all our colleagues are encouraged and supported to be themselves, where difference is celebrated and where everyone feels able to deliver their best. We are also determined to build a workforce that is more representative of our diverse communities and the people we provide our services to.