Location
London Borough of Islington

Hours
Full Time - 35 hours per week

Salary
£79,629 per annum

About the Role
At Islington, our purpose is clear: we work together for a more equal future, guided by our CARE values. As Head of Health, Safety and Wellbeing, you will lead the council’s strategic approach to keeping colleagues safe, well and able to perform at their best. You will act as the council’s competent person under the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999, lead a skilled advisory team, and ensure statutory, governance and assurance responsibilities are met.

A key pillar of our Workforce Strategy 2026–30 is wellbeing, resilience and working safely. In this role, you will use evidence, data and insight to identify risks early, target support, strengthen prevention and help colleagues sustain both wellbeing and performance over time. You will oversee occupational health and counselling contracts and lead our national partnership with YPO, shaping practice across Islington and influencing the wider sector.

We seek an experienced, professionally qualified health and safety leader with strong knowledge of safety law, wellbeing practice and safety management systems. You will confidently advise senior leaders, translate complex requirements into practical action, and collaborate with services, Public Health, trade unions, colleague forums and partners to build a safe, inclusive and health-promoting workplace.

Islington is a diverse and culturally rich borough committed to challenging inequality. Our values—collaborative, ambitious, resourceful, and empowering—reflect our dedication to public service and creating a more equal Islington. We offer a supportive environment where everyone can thrive and contribute to positive change.

Experience
Proven leadership in health, safety and wellbeing within a complex organisation. Strong knowledge of health and safety law, wellbeing practices and safety management systems. Experience advising senior leaders and working collaboratively with multiple stakeholders including trade unions and public health teams.

About you
Professionally qualified health and safety leader with excellent communication and interpersonal skills. Confident in translating complex legal and regulatory requirements into practical, actionable strategies. Committed to fostering an inclusive, safe and health-promoting workplace culture. Able to use data and insight to drive continuous improvement in wellbeing and safety outcomes.

Qualifications
Relevant professional health and safety qualifications required. Evidence of continuous professional development in health, safety and wellbeing. Occupational health and safety certifications or registrations as appropriate.

Additional Information
Employment is subject to pre-employment checks including proof of right to work in the UK, references, occupational health clearance, and DBS check where applicable. Islington Council is committed to equality, equity, diversity and inclusion and operates a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum criteria. Reasonable adjustments are available throughout the recruitment process and employment.