EHS Specialist

Overview We are looking for an experienced EHS Specialist to join our bakery manufacturing environment and play a key role in ensuring a safe, healthy and environmentally responsible workplace. The role will be responsible for driving EHS standards across the bakery, supporting compliance with applicable legislation and company requirements, identifying and mitigating workplace risks, and building a strong safety culture across the site. This is a hands-on operational role that requires strong engagement with employees, line management and contractors, as well as the ability to influence and drive EHS improvements in a fast-paced manufacturing environment. Responsibilities Environment, Health & Safety Drive the implementation and maintenance of the site's EHS management systems, standards and procedures. Conduct regular workplace inspections, risk assessments and compliance audits. Identify hazards and implement appropriate corrective and preventative actions. Monitor compliance with applicable EHS legislation, regulations and company standards. Support incident, accident and near-miss investigations and ensure appropriate corrective actions are implemented. Track and report EHS performance, trends, incidents and key metrics. Develop and facilitate EHS awareness, induction and training programmes. Promote a proactive safety culture and visible safety leadership across the bakery. Provide EHS advice and guidance to operational teams and employees. Support emergency preparedness, including drills, emergency response plans and related training. Monitor contractor and visitor compliance with site EHS requirements. Ensure appropriate EHS documentation, records and reporting are maintained. Manufacturing & Bakery Safety Partner with Production, Engineering, Quality and other functions to identify and manage operational risks. Drive safety improvements relating to machinery, production processes, ergonomics, manual handling, chemical handling, working at heights and other manufacturing risks. Support the implementation of machine safety and safeguarding requirements. Identify opportunities to reduce workplace injuries, unsafe acts and unsafe conditions. Participate in relevant operational meetings and provide EHS input into business decisions and projects. Support the introduction of new equipment, processes and changes from an EHS perspective. Environmental Management Support the implementation of environmental programmes and initiatives at site level. Monitor environmental compliance and assist with the management of waste, water, energy and other environmental aspects. Support environmental inspections, audits and reporting requirements. Drive initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact and improving sustainability performance. People Leadership Lead, coach and develop 1 direct report, ensuring clear objectives, accountability and performance expectations. Build EHS capability across employees and operational teams through coaching and engagement. Partner with line managers to embed accountability for EHS within their respective areas. Qualifications Relevant Bachelor's Degree / National Diploma in Environmental Health, Occupational Health & Safety, Environmental Management, Safety Management or a related field. Relevant EHS/OHS professional registration or certification, where applicable. 3–5 years' experience in an EHS role, preferably within a manufacturing, FMCG, food production or bakery environment. Practical experience in risk assessments, incident investigations, audits and EHS compliance. Working knowledge of South African OHS and environmental legislation. Experience working with operational teams in a manufacturing environment. Experience in facilitating EHS training and awareness programmes. Previous experience supervising or leading a small team would be advantageous.