Head of Health & Safety

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE

At Nido, we create more than just student accommodation – we build vibrant communities where students can thrive. As a fast-growing student housing provider in Europe, we put people and the planet first, delivering exceptional spaces, conscious communities, and unparalleled experiences. 

We are undertaking an ambitious and strategic journey to become Europe’s leading provider of Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA). With active expansion into key markets including Germany and Italy, we are building the foundations for long-term, pan-European growth.

We are seeking a highly experienced and proactive Head of Health & Safety to oversee and manage all health and safety (H&S) functions across our pan-European portfolio. Based in Madrid, this key leadership role will ensure that Nido Living meets and exceeds all H&S obligations across a range of property assets. The successful candidate will work closely with our Asset, Facilities, and Compliance teams to implement and maintain best-in-class safety standards across our properties.

KEY TASKS & RESPONSIBILITIES (include but are not limited to)

Strategic Leadership

• Develop, implement, and continually improve the overarching health and safety strategy across Nido Living’s European portfolio.
• Serve as the subject matter expert on all H&S matters, ensuring full regulatory compliance in each operating jurisdiction.

Operational Delivery

• Support and guide local and regional teams on day-to-day H&S operations.
• Conduct regular audits, inspections, and risk assessments across all properties.
• Oversee incident reporting, investigation, and root cause analysis with a focus on continuous improvement.

Collaboration & Stakeholder Engagement

• Partner with the Asset Management teams during development, refurbishment, and acquisition phases to integrate H&S considerations early in project lifecycles.
• Collaborate with the Facilities Management team to ensure safe maintenance practices and contractor management.
• Work alongside the Compliance Manager to ensure all statutory obligations and documentation are current and accurate.

Training & Culture

• Drive a culture of safety across all levels of the business through effective training, communication, and engagement.
• Design and deliver training programmes tailored to different operational needs.

Governance & Reporting

• Maintain up-to-date policies, procedures, and documentation aligned with international best practices and local legislation.
• Provide regular reporting to senior leadership and contribute to board-level discussions on risk management.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Proven experience in a senior health and safety role, ideally across a multi-site, pan-European property or real estate environment.
• NEBOSH Diploma (or equivalent) and Chartered Membership of IOSH or relevant European equivalent.
• Deep knowledge of European H&S legislation, with the ability to interpret and apply it across jurisdictions.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and influence at all levels.
• Strong organisational, analytical, and communication skills.
• Fluent in English; additional European languages (e.g., Spanish, German and Italian) are a plus.
• Willingness to travel frequently across Europe.