Posted By GavinR
Hi folks,

Just wanted to ask the advice of all you experienced HSE Managers out there on taking the next step up from adviser to manager position. I have a BSc in SHEM and approx 3-4 years experience with large international firms as an HSE Adviser. I'm considering taking the next step and looking for Managers positions but it appears from first steps that people are unwilling to consider a younger employee for this position. I'm late 20's and feel i have very good experience in engineering, manufacturing and CDM-C and have dealt with a wide range of h&s issues that i feel would give me adequate experience. Could anyone offer their advice on how they made the next step up and what skills are needed to be developed further to make this step?

Any advice would be very much appreciated.

Cheers.

Posted By garyh
I write as someone who has experience of this and offer my opinions here.

I would try to "big up" my current role - that is, get involved in projects above the advisor role, that a manager would do. You won't get paid for it but will get you experience and lines for the CV. Get your CV up to date and professionally reviewed.

In my experience there is a world of difference between being a safety advisor/officer and safety manager - many people who are excellent SOs could never be a manager in a month of Sundays. The big difference between being a great "leg man" (or Woman) and a safety manager is in the ability to see the big picture, to lead, to initiate change, and see things coming. You need, dare I say it, a certain level of education and ability to communicate effectively at all levels. (There is still a lot of snobbery, and reluctance to let the lower ranks join the club).

For instance, if you wrote a report to a senior manager using the words "should of" instead of "should have" and you will find that they immediately doubt your credibility, and may miss the great message you are giving. I would advise studying this area, look at reports and other docs such as procedures and ask yourself if you can do this to the same standard? If not practice. You could also do a management qualification eg at night school.

One thing to consider is going for a sort term safety manager contract. They are more likely to take a chance on you than a salaried job, as they can get rid of you with a week's notice!

Believe in yourself but have a genuine look at your skills, experience and ability.

Lastly get out there and apply! They won't come to you - and don't say that you want a chance at a manager's job. Call yourself a safety professional on your CV (not SO) and go for it.