EHS Director

Job Summary

Provides expert leadership and holds enterprise accountability for Southwire's environmental, health, and safety programs, including systems and processes that ensure compliance with applicable regulatory requirements. Recognized as a trusted internal and external authority on complex EHS matters, serving as a shared subject matter expert across the organization. Anticipates emerging risks, regulatory developments, and business challenges, guiding and driving enterprise‑wide environmental and safety continuous improvement initiatives that reduce risk and liability and deliver broad operational impact. Operates independently in a complex environment, setting strategic direction, leading cross‑functional initiatives, influencing organizational policy, and contributing to functional strategy to ensure EHS practices support business growth, operational efficiency, and corporate sustainability objectives, while also providing targeted site‑specific guidance and oversight.

Key Responsibilities

Set strategic EHS priorities for the assigned business vertical and ensure effective implementation of environmental, health, and safety programs aligned with organizational goals and regulatory requirements.
Provide independent leadership of complex EHS initiatives and projects, directing cross‑functional teams to achieve safety, environmental, and operational objectives.
Identify, assess, and mitigate environmental and safety risks, establishing proactive methods to prevent incidents and reduce organizational risk and liability.
Develop, implement, and sustain safety protocols, environmental policies, and compliance programs, ensuring alignment with regulatory standards and company expectations.
Evaluate EHS program effectiveness using data, audits, and performance indicators, applying insights to drive continuous improvement across facilities and operations.
Lead regulatory compliance and external engagement, serving as a primary liaison with regulatory agencies and ensuring timely, accurate reporting and responses.
Influence and engage stakeholders at all levels, from front line leaders to senior leadership, on EHS priorities that impact business performance and risk management.
Drive a strong EHS culture through effective communication, ensuring employees and leaders understand and adhere to safety and environmental requirements.
Coach, develop, and support EHS staff and operational leaders, building capability, accountability, and sustained performance within the business vertical.
Provide targeted site‑level oversight and guidance, including audits, incident investigations, and monitoring activities, to ensure consistent application of EHS systems and standards.

Required Education & Experience

Master's Degree

Specialized Degree:  Industry Safety, Environmental, Engineering, or similar field

12-14 Years Experience

Field(s) of  Expertise: 

7-10 years' experience in manufacturing, 7-10 years’ safety experience in general industry and 5+ years of Environmental efforts with waste management, EPCRA, storm water, spill prevention, air, and waste streams.

Preferred Education & Experience

15+ Years Experience

Field(s) of Expertise: Manufacturing or general industry preferred 

Certificates/Licenses:

Certified Safety Professional (CSP) or Certified Hazardous Materials Manager (CHMM) or Certified Industrial Hygienist (CIH) or Professional Engineer (PE)

Spans of Control

Does this role manage Southwire team members: No

Travel

Domestic, occasionally international - up to 25% of time 

Physical Requirements

Carrying/Lifting - 5% of time/Weight 25

Climbing - 5% of time

Kneeling/Stooping - 5% of time

Moving - 10% of time

Standing - 10% of time

Sitting - 50% of time

Walking - 15% of time 

Working Conditions

Office

Plant/Warehouse Floor

Various Shifts

Overtime, Weekends, & Holidays

Extreme Heat/Cold

Loud Noise 

Equipment

Hard Hat

Computer/Keyboard

Safety Glasses

Safety Shoes

Safety Vest 

Competencies

Skills