[ref. v10451904] Group Health and Safety Manager
K G Richardson Ltd is a locally owned and operated business providing financial, people, and safety expertise to a group of vertically integrated companies employing approximate 450 people.
At K G Richardson Ltd, we are committed to being industry leaders while recognising and caring for the individuals that make up our team.
We have a rare and rewarding opportunity for a Health & Safety Manager to step into an active role supporting rapid growth, diverse projects, and an expanding workforce across the timber, transport, and commercial property sectors.
Health & Safety here is practical, lived, and embedded into daily operations. We are looking for a doer, someone who will roll up their sleeves, walk the floor, connect with people, and bring Health & Safety to life in the operational environments.Compliance is vital, but so too is working flexibly in the real-world “grey areas”.
This role offers the chance to make a tangible impact across multiple businesses and industries. You will spend time on-site engaging with teams, identifying risks, and influencing positive change, while also managing critical behind-the-scenes work such as reporting, audits, compliance checks, and data insights.This is a full-time role (45 hours, Monday to Friday) based at our head office in Kennington, Invercargill. On-site presence is essential.
Key responsibilities will include:
- Develop, implement, and maintain health and safety policies and procedures across the Group.
- Lead audits and investigations to ensure best practice.
- Translate legislation and policy into practical, workable processes.
- Conduct inspections and risk assessments to identify and manage hazards.
- Drive continuous improvement across multiple sites and operations.
- Provide training, guidance, and support to employees at all levels.
- To grow capability and ownership to ensure teams own Health & Safety in their areas
- Report on Health & Safety performance, providing insights and recommendations to senior management and the Board.
- Act as the primary contact for regulatory bodies and external auditors.
- Promote and foster a positive safety culture throughout the organisation.
Our ideal candidate will have:
- A relevant Health & Safety qualification.
- Proven leadership experience, ideally in manufacturing or construction.
- Strong knowledge of health, safety, and environmental legislation and best practices.
- The ability to identify and manage critical high risks in high-hazard environments
- Experience in incident investigation and root cause analysis.
- Excellent communication skills.
- Strong problem-solving abilities with resilience and creativity under pressure.
- The ability to prioritise effectively and manage competing demands.
- Work alongside leaders who respect and champion Health & Safety initiatives.
- Enjoy a supportive culture that values integrity, collaboration, and excellence.
- We offer excellent remuneration, and a loyalty program where long service is rewarded and celebrated.
- Annual Christmas functions for employees and their families.
- Exclusive scholarship program available for employees' children and grandchildren.
- Secure employment with the opportunity to lead meaningful changes and see the impact of your work every day.
The successful candidate will be supported by a loyal and passionate leadership team and a workforce that genuinely values Health & Safety.
Please apply online with your CV and a cover letter outlining your experience and interest in this position. We would also like to hear your perspective on Health & Safety – what excites you about it, and how you can contribute to our team.
For any questions, contact Jemma Cournane at jemma.cournane@kgr.net.nz.
Applications must be submitted online. Only candidates currently residing in, and eligible to work in, New Zealand will be considered.