Head of HSEQ

Head of HSEQ

Renewable Energy | South Africa | Cape Town

About the Opportunity

A leading international renewable energy developer is seeking an experienced Head of Health, Safety, Environment & Quality (HSEQ) to lead the HSEQ function across its South African business.

This executive leadership role is responsible for developing and implementing the country's HSEQ strategy across utility-scale renewable energy assets, ensuring world-class safety performance, regulatory compliance, operational excellence, and continuous improvement throughout development, construction and operations.

The successful individual will work closely with executive leadership both locally and internationally while leading a high-performing HSEQ function that supports business growth across South Africa.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the South African HSEQ strategy aligned to global standards.
• Provide executive leadership across Health, Safety, Environment and Quality.
• Drive a proactive Zero Harm culture throughout the business.
• Lead contractor HSEQ governance across EPC and O&M activities.
• Ensure compliance with South African legislation and international standards.
• Maintain ISO 45001, ISO 14001 and ISO 9001 management systems.
• Lead audits, investigations, corrective actions and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Oversee environmental compliance, permitting and regulatory reporting.
• Monitor HSEQ KPIs and present performance reports to executive stakeholders.
• Partner closely with Development, Engineering, Construction and Operations teams.
• Build and mentor the South African HSEQ team.

Minimum Requirements

• Degree in Engineering, Safety Management, Environmental Management or related technical discipline.
• 15+ years' HSEQ experience within high-risk industries.
• At least 5 years leading an HSEQ function.
• Strong renewable energy, power generation, infrastructure or EPC experience.
• Extensive knowledge of ISO 45001, ISO 14001 and ISO 9001.
• Strong contractor management experience.
• Experience across project development, construction and operational phases.
• Demonstrated executive stakeholder management experience.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills.

Highly Advantageous

• Utility-scale Solar PV
• Wind
• Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS)
• Transmission
• Grid infrastructure
• Multi-country or multinational experience
• Executive reporting into global leadership
• NEBOSH
• SACPCMP
• Lead Auditor qualifications