Chief Safety Officer
About the Role
The Chief Safety Officer (CSO) is an executive-level role responsible for integrating safety into corporate strategy, governance, and leadership decision-making. Reporting directly to the CEO or board, the CSO ensures workplace health and safety is treated as a critical business priority.
Key Responsibilities
- Define and lead organisational safety strategy
- Provide board-level advice on safety risks and governance
- Ensure compliance with WHS legislation and executive due diligence obligations
- Lead enterprise-wide safety culture initiatives
- Oversee safety performance, reporting, and assurance frameworks
- Partner with executives to embed safety into strategic planning
Key Requirements
- Extensive executive experience in safety or HSE leadership
- Demonstrated board and executive engagement capability
- Advanced WHS qualifications or equivalent professional certifications
- Strong governance, risk, and assurance experience
- Proven ability to lead large-scale cultural change
Why This Role Matters
The CSO protects organisational reputation, ensures leadership accountability, and strengthens governance. This role is critical in industries where safety failures carry significant legal, financial, and reputational consequences.
Sectors That Typically Require This Role
Resources and Energy (Mining, Oil & Gas, Renewable Energy)
Infrastructure and Major Projects
Manufacturing and Industrial
Transport and Logistics
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