Operational Health & Safety Manager
- Nederland
- Vast
- Voltijds
Location: Rotterdam area & Leiden area, Netherlands
Type: Full-Time, Permanent
Industry: Food & Pharmaceutical ProductionAbout the CompanyOur client is a global leader in the production of natural casings and meat-based pharmaceutical ingredients, with operations across Europe, North and South America, Asia, and North Africa. The company specializes in collagen and casing products, supplying both food and pharmaceutical industries.With over 100 sites globally – including slaughterhouses, production facilities, and distribution centers – they emphasize hands-on production, safety, and innovation. Their European HQ is located in Nieuwerkerk a/d IJssel, which functions as the central hub for distribution and operations.The RoleWe are seeking a proactive and operational Health & Safety Manager to lead and transform the HSE function across two sites in the Netherlands. This is a hands-on role focused on real-time safety leadership, policy development, and international collaboration. You will work closely with the Global HSE Manager and stakeholders across the business unit and global offices.Key ResponsibilitiesDrive development and implementation of Health & Safety programs across two Dutch sites.Lead and standardize ISO 45001 implementation and compliance.Collaborate with international HSE teams, sharing knowledge and best practices.Deliver training and policy guidance across sites in Europe, South America, and the US.Support production teams in ensuring safety during manual handling and exposure-prone operations.Play a strategic role in establishing audit processes and waste management policies.Ideal Candidate Profile5-6 years of experience in a Health & Safety leadership role (some flexibility for the right candidate).Conversational Dutch is required to deliver training and communicate with local teams.Experience with ISO 45001 and production environments is essential.Comfortable working hands-on in a fast-paced, machinery-heavy production setting.Ability and willingness to travel internationally (approx. 5-6 times per year).Knowledge of Spanish or German is a plus due to collaboration with non-English speaking teams.Strong interpersonal and stakeholder management skills.Background in food or pharmaceutical industries is a bonus.Work Environment & ExpectationsOn-site presence: Minimum of 4 days per week on-site, with 1 day remote (flexible depending on business needs).The role combines 60% strategic/policy work and 40% on-the-ground HSE support.Opportunity to grow into a more senior role as part of a global business unit.Why Apply?Join a company with a global footprint and long-term ambitions to raise HSE standards.Direct impact on shaping and transforming health & safety culture.Travel internationally and collaborate with peers across multiple countries.Grow in a supportive and open culture, with room for internal mobility.