HSE invites applications for new Chair of the Science Quality and Assurance Group

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20th March 2026

Corporate HSE is looking for an experienced scientist, engineer or analyst to Chair the Science Quality and Assurance Group (SQAG).

SQAG provides the HSE Board, HSE Chief Executive and Director of Science with robust external assurance of the science, engineering and analysis (SEA) work which underpins HSE’s decision making.

About the person

We welcome applications from people who:

• are eminent in a scientific, engineering or analytical discipline, with evidence of national and/or international impact and demonstrable ability to work confidently across a wide range of relevant scientific disciplines
• have experience of working on expert committees or in an equivalent capacity, in trans-disciplinary teams, and are experienced in managing complex discussions
• are a skilled communicator who can provide leadership and direction
• have experience in leading and managing research programmes, and extensive experience working across the scientific community in a leadership role – it’s expected that any technical experience will be at the applied end of the research landscape
• have a collaborative style and an aptitude for partnership working and an ability to engage with people in a respectful and inclusive way
• have a good understanding of the policy and regulatory context in which HSE works and knowledge of the role played by HSE in relation to other players in the health and safety system

About the role

As the Chair of SQAG, your key responsibilities will include:

• leading the group to provide independent and objective assurance to the HSE Board and the HSE Director of Science on the quality, alignment and impact of HSE’s SEA activities
• working with HSE’s Director of Science to define the scope of work
• ensuring the group upholds standards and good governance in accordance with its terms of reference
• guiding discussions within the group towards shared conclusions while making sure that differing or minority views are captured and appropriately reflected
• representing the group within HSE and being the main point of contact between the group and HSE’s Board and Director of Science
• presenting findings from the group’s activities to HSE’s Board Duties as Chair of SQAG are expected to take in the region of 12 days per year. This would include chairing at least 2 meetings of the full group each year, attending at least 2 deep dives per year (each lasting up to two days) and covering SQAG related items at the HSE Board (virtually). SQAG related meetings will be held face-to-face, with the option for some hybrid meetings depending on the nature of the discussions.

To apply

To apply send a brief CV and supporting letter to hse.secretariat@hse.gov.uk quoting SQAG APPLICATION in the subject field.

Applications must be received by 12pm (midday) on Friday 17 April 2026. Receipt of applications will be acknowledged by email.

Applicant pack

For full information on this opportunity please refer to the Applicant pack for SQAG Chair. Please note that the applicants pack sets out the assessment criteria.

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