Senior Safety Manager

• Support the Head of Safety and Safeguarding and senior leaders to strengthen operational safety across the DofE Network of delivery partners.
• Lead the delivery of safety support—particularly for the Expedition section of the Programme—to Licensed Organisations, Approved Activity Providers and Operations Teams, providing expert technical advice.
• Develop and implement safety strategies, incident management arrangements and reporting policies, ensuring a consistent, network‑wide approach.
• Ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements and help embed a robust safety culture across delivery partners.
• Oversee incident reporting within CRM systems, ensuring appropriate referrals (including Serious Incident Reports and regulatory notifications), analysing data and using insights to inform training and practice.
• Apply DofE frameworks such as the Expedition Responsibility Matrix, Due Diligence Risk Assessment, Annual Review and Action Plans to lead safety management across the Network.
• Line‑manage, develop and motivate the DofE Safety Officer, setting SMART objectives aligned to organisational strategy and supporting their professional growth.
• Manage Safety Team budget expenditure in line with delegated authority.
• Collaborate with Training and L&D teams to deliver high‑quality, fit‑for‑purpose safety training for staff and volunteers.
• Maintain up‑to‑date resources, case studies, scenario‑based learning materials and safety communications.
• Respond to safety queries, deliver briefings and ensure safe practice across the DofE Network.
• Produce timely safety management information for senior stakeholders.
• Track KPIs with the Data & Impact team to measure and report on safety outcomes.
• Stay informed about safety developments, NGB guidance, youth sector trends and relevant government policy.
• Represent the DofE externally on safety matters and liaise with key stakeholders.

What we are looking for:

•  Proven ability to apply safety risk management frameworks and confidently advise senior leaders on compliance requirements and incident management. 
• Technical qualifications and experience in outdoor education, expedition management and/or volunteering environments.
• Strong understanding of terrains, modes of expedition travel and commonly used geographical regions within the UK.
• In‑depth knowledge of national safety legislation and regulations relevant to adventurous or outdoor learning activities.
• knowledge of implementing safety practice across a dispersed network or licensing model.
• Proven experience managing people and supporting their professional development.
• High level of personal integrity and ability to manage sensitive matters confidentially.
• Resilient, proactive and solutions‑focused, with excellent time‑management skills.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to influence, guide and build confidence at all levels.
• Experience working with internal and external stakeholders.
• Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to balance a varied workload, think critically and solve problems proactively.
• Demonstrated commitment to quality, continuous improvement, learning and development.
• Proficiency in Microsoft applications and exemplary administrative skills.
• A collaborative team player with strong interpersonal skills.

How to apply and interview dates