Head of Fire Safety

Job Introduction

We’re seeking an influential and highly experienced Head of Fire Safety to provide senior leadership, technical authority, and strategic direction across Sodexo UK & Ireland. In this pivotal role, you will shape and drive a resilient, compliant, and future‑focused fire safety framework that meets the expectations of regulators, insurers, clients, and our own internal standards.

You will lead the development and delivery of the UK&I fire safety strategy, strengthening governance, competency, and assurance across our operations. As the organisation’s fire safety authority, you’ll play a critical role in enhancing Sodexo’s Fire Safety Operating Model while maintaining key external relationships — including our partnership with the Primary Authority.

This is a high‑impact leadership opportunity for someone who thrives on influencing at scale, setting strategic direction, and ensuring excellence in safety across a diverse and complex portfolio.

Join Sodexo and be part of something greater. You belong in a team where you can act with purpose and thrive in your own way.

For more information on Sodexo Careers please visit Sodexo Careers  

Main Responsibilities 

● Lead and implement the UK&I fire safety strategy and roadmap.

● Own the fire safety governance model, including policies, standards, KPIs, and audits.

● Ensure clarity of roles between duty holders, advisors, and contractors.

● Define and maintain competency standards for all fire safety roles.

● Provide authoritative technical support across high‑risk environments.

● Oversee fire risk assessment frameworks, audits, compliance controls, and corrective actions.

● Act as senior escalation point for the Fire Authorising Engineer and Fire Safety Advisors.

● Support mobilisation, bids, PFI handbacks, and operational transitions.

● Maintain strategic relationships with the Primary Authority, regulators, insurers, and industry bodies.

 The Ideal Candidate 

● Chartered or senior‑level Fire Safety professional.

● Extensive experience in high‑risk, complex, regulated environments.

● Deep knowledge of UK fire legislation and Irish frameworks.

● Proven experience in governance, assurance, and risk management.

● Strong influencing, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

● Ability to interpret complex technical and operational issues.

Package Description

Up to £90,000

Working with Sodexo is more than a job; it’s a chance to be part of something greater. 

You’ll belong in a company and team that values you for you; you’ll act with purpose and have an impact through your everyday actions; and you’ll be able to thrive in your own way. 

In addition, we offer 20+ Sodexo benefits such as Sodexo retirement plan, discounts to over 1,900 brands to shop online, Gym discount to maintain a healthy lifestyle, a confidential 24/7 employee assistance programme providing independent support to overcome whenever life has its obstacles including emotional support, legal and financial advice. 

For further details regarding our Sodexo benefits please see attached.  

Ready to be part of something greater? Apply today! 

About The Company

At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone to build a better life for all. As the global leader in services that improve the Quality of Life, we operate in 55 countries, serving over 100 million consumers each day through our unique combination of On-Site Food and FM Services, Benefits & Rewards Services and Personal & Home Services.

We're all about building a workplace for the future, we believe in equal opportunities, and we celebrate diversity. We’re an inclusive workplace, where everyone is welcome, everyone can be natural, and be the best versions of themselves. We recognise that we’re on a journey with regards to diversity and inclusion and would therefore welcome applications for candidates from underrepresented backgrounds.

We’re a Disability Confident Leader employer. We’re committed to changing attitudes towards disability, and making sure disabled people have the chance to fulfil their aspirations. We run a Disability Confident interview scheme for candidates with disabilities who meet the minimum selection criteria for the job.