Head of Fire Safety
Be part of something greater.
- Job reference: SDX/TP/1129899/153881
- Location: Hybrid - London or Manchester based
- Job type: Full Time - 40 hours per week
- Salary: Up to £90,000 depending on experience
- Closing date: 19 March 2026
About the role
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.
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KEY BENEFITS
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Advice and guidance
Get help with legal, financial, personal or work issues whenever you need it. -
Pension Plan
Save effectively for your future when you join the Sodexo Pension Plan. -
Wellbeing support
Unlimited access to online support for your mental health, 24/7. -
Generous leave
For holidays, care needs or major life events, we’ll help you rest and recharge. -
Discounts and savings
Enjoy great deals from leading retailers and use our Bike to Work scheme -
Virtual GP
24-hour access to video or phone consultations for you and your family.
Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
At our company, we believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. Roles at Sodexo are designed to empower individuals from all backgrounds. We are committed to creating an environment that values equity and supports the growth of all employees, ensuring that everyone can contribute to and benefit from our collective success.
Social Impact
Ever since we started, we’ve had a clear purpose – to do some good in our communities through helping people. Today, that purpose is still a huge part of who we are. And every one of our colleagues helps that happen.
We’re committed to volunteering our time, resources, skills and knowledge – more than 50% of colleagues contribute to thousands of volunteer hours every year. And our Charitable Foundation has now donated over £9 million to charities and good causes across the country.
Hybrid - London or Manchester based, United Kingdom, M50 2UE
Register your interest
Join us at Sodexo and explore the exciting career opportunities we offer! Whether you're interested in hospitality, facilities management, or food services, we invite you to set up a profile and become part of our vibrant team.