How to Build a Successful Career in Health and Safety
Posted by Michael Colton
Posted on 13 June 2025
A career in health and safety is more than a job; it’s a meaningful profession that helps ensure people return home safely each day. But building a fulfilling, impactful and sustainable career in this field doesn’t happen by accident. It takes clarity, intention and a few key strategies along the way.
At Irwin and Colton, we’ve placed over 1,000 health, safety, and environment (HSE) professionals, from Advisors to Directors, across a range of industries and organisations, from global brands and FTSE-listed companies to heritage sites, fashion labels, and even the occasional polar expedition.
Over the years, we’ve identified some clear patterns. Career success is personal; everyone defines it differently, but there are consistent themes in what helps professionals thrive. Here are five practical strategies to help you build a career that not only works for you, but one you genuinely enjoy.
Start With Mindset
The way you think about your career shapes your actions and ultimately, your success.
Be a Lifelong Learner
The H&S profession is constantly evolving. From changing legislation to new technologies, there’s always something to stay on top of. The most successful professionals stay curious, whether that’s learning new qualifications, understanding ISO frameworks, or listening to Safety podcasts.
Progress over perfection
Don’t wait until you’re 100% ready to pursue a new opportunity. Most of the time, 70% is enough. Back yourself. Trust that you’ll grow into new roles and responsibilities.
Resilience is a Superpower
Careers come with setbacks, missed roles, difficult managers, and projects that don’t go to plan. What matters is how you bounce back. Learn from the experience and move forward stronger.
Play the Long Game
Focus on building a career that’s sustainable and aligned with your values. Celebrate small wins, and don’t rush the process.
Set Clear Career Goals
We spend around 80,000 hours working in our lifetimes, and often, careers evolve by chance rather than design. That’s why it pays to take a step back and ask:
What does success look like for me?
What kind of work do I find most rewarding?
What direction do I want to take next?
Once you define a goal, opportunities start to appear. It’s like buying a new car; suddenly, you see it everywhere. When you set a clear goal, your brain starts noticing conversations, job posts, and people that align with that vision.
Write it down - research shows doing so increases your chance of success by 42%.
Even if the vision feels a little vague, it gives you a direction of travel. Without a goal, it’s hard to make informed decisions about things like qualifications, career moves, or whether to consider contract vs permanent roles.
Make a Plan
Once your goal is clear, the next step is action.
Ask yourself:
What skills or experience do I need to reach my goal?
Do I need exposure to new industries or responsibilities?
Am I ready for leadership?
Then map out your next steps, even if they’re small:
Want to break into a new industry? Attend an event, connect with professionals on LinkedIn, or speak to someone already working in that space.
Aiming for a management role? Offer to mentor a colleague or lead a small safety initiative at work.
Thinking about working internationally? Start with a company that has global operations or remote project work.
Use the SMART framework to keep things clear:
“Within 12 months, I will secure a consultancy role by updating my CV, attending two networking events, and connecting with five consultants on LinkedIn.”
Tap Into the Power of Mentors and Networks
The health and safety profession is built on shared knowledge, trust, and collaboration. That’s why networking and mentorship are so valuable.
Mentors can help you:
Make better career decisions
Build confidence
Avoid common pitfalls
Get perspective when you're stuck in the day-to-day
You don’t need a formal program to find a mentor. Reach out to someone in a role you admire, ask for a virtual coffee, or explore mentoring schemes through IOSH or your employer.
Equally, your professional network can be a game-changer. Many of the best opportunities, whether it’s a new job, project, or speaking engagement, can come through people you know.
Be visible. Be curious. Be open to sharing your story and learning from others
Build Your Personal Brand
Depending on your goals, visibility in the profession may play a key role in progressing your career. Consider:
Contributing to research, committees, or working groups
It’s not about being an influencer; it’s about showing up authentically, engaging with your profession, and helping others understand what you stand for.
Start by aligning your activity with your career goals and values. Then, take small, consistent steps to increase your presence.
Final Thought: Be Intentional
The most fulfilled H&S professionals we’ve worked with have taken the time to define their path and then followed it with purpose. Their careers didn’t unfold by accident. They set goals, made plans, asked for help, took action and stayed open to opportunities.
Wherever you are in your career, whether just starting out, considering a move, or aiming higher, the best time to invest in your future is now.
And if you’d like support on the journey, we’re here to help. Explore our Career Hub for:
Career tips and CV advice
Industry insights
Salary surveys and more
Here’s to building a career you’re proud of!
Michael Colton is one of the founding Directors of Irwin and Colton, with over a decade of experience in the field. Michael is passionate about helping professionals build rewarding and impactful careers in the HSE professions.
