Job DescriptionThe HSE Director, North America is responsible for defining, leading, and implementing the Health, Safety and Environment (HSE) strategy across all North American operations. This role will consolidate and elevate HSE ownership across the organization, ensuring regulatory compliance, risk mitigation, alignment with global standards, and the continued development of a proactive safety culture across all business units.
This position provides leadership to all site-level HSE teams throughout North America and serves as the primary point of contact between NAM operations and Global HSE leadership. The role supports manufacturing, service, sales operations, and corporate functions while driving consistency, accountability, sustainability, and continuous improvement across the organization.
Key Responsibilities And AccountabilitiesLead the North America HSE Organization- Provide leadership and direction to all NAM site HSE Managers.
- Establish priorities and ensure timely execution of HSE initiatives.
- Standardize HSE practices, systems, reporting, and KPIs across all locations.
- Develop and mentor site HSE resources while driving accountability for performance.
Develop and Drive HSE Strategy- Define and implement the North America HSE strategy aligned with global standards and business objectives.
- Create governance structures, policies, and standards to ensure consistency across facilities.
- Integrate HSE into operational excellence initiatives and overall business strategy.
Ensure Compliance and Risk Management- Maintain compliance with all applicable federal, state, provincial, and local regulations.
- Oversee risk assessments, audits, compliance reviews, and corrective action programs.
- Serve as the key liaison with regulatory agencies and external auditors.
Drive Operational Excellence and Continuous Improvement- Lead implementation of HSE programs and best practices across facilities.
- Analyze incidents, identify root causes, and implement preventive measures.
- Incorporate HSE performance into operational metrics and business reviews.
Lead Environmental and Sustainability Initiatives- Develop North America environmental strategies focused on emissions, waste, and resource management.
- Ensure compliance with environmental regulations and reporting requirements.
- Support sustainability initiatives aligned with company ESG objectives.
Oversee Incident Prevention and Response- Lead investigations involving significant incidents and high-risk events.
- Establish consistent methodologies for reporting, escalation, and corrective actions.
- Develop preventive programs focused on reducing risk and improving employee safety.
Build a Strong Safety Culture- Develop and implement HSE training and awareness programs.
- Promote a "zero harm" safety culture throughout the organization.
- Partner with leaders to reinforce safety ownership at every level.
Support Global Alignment- Act as the primary North America liaison to Global HSE leadership.
- Ensure alignment between global requirements and regional operational needs.
- Provide executive leadership with regular updates on HSE performance and risk.
Additional Responsibilities- Act as the HSE Manager for remote employees and the Boston office.
- Support deployment and execution of the overall North America HSE strategy.
Essential Qualifications, Experience, And Skills- Bachelor's Degree in Occupational Health & Safety, Environmental Science, Engineering, or a related field.
- 12-15+ years of progressive HSE leadership experience.
- Demonstrated success leading HSE strategy at a regional, national, or multi-site level.
- Strong understanding of U.S. and Canadian HSE regulations.
- Experience managing distributed teams and influencing stakeholders across multiple locations.
- Proven experience identifying and mitigating electrical hazards.
- Working knowledge of NFPA 70E and CSA Z462 requirements.
- Experience conducting audits, risk assessments, incident investigations, and compliance programs.
Preferred Qualifications- CSP, CRSP, or equivalent professional certification.
- Manufacturing or industrial environment experience.
- Environmental compliance and sustainability leadership experience.
- Experience supporting complex, multi-site operations.
- Strong executive presence and ability to influence at all levels of the organization.
Additional Requirements- Ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed.
- Participation in after-hours escalation support for critical incidents when required.
- Hybrid work environment with regular onsite presence at operational facilities.
- Must be legally authorized to work in the United States without current or future sponsorship.
This is a strategic leadership opportunity to build and influence safety culture across North America while partnering directly with executive leadership, manufacturing operations, service teams, and global stakeholders. The ideal candidate will have the opportunity to shape HSE strategy, drive operational excellence, and make a measurable impact across a growing international team.
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