The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Director, Global CQHS (L6)
3-5 yearsSkills to master
- Mastering global programme management, building and leading multi-regional teams, presenting to C-suite, managing multi-million-pound budgets, and driving enterprise-wide policy implementation.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistently exceeding global EHS/Quality performance targets for a large business unit or region.
- Successfully leading the integration of CQHS aspects during a major acquisition or divestiture.
- Demonstrating exceptional crisis management skills during significant incidents.
- Building strong, trusted relationships with C-suite executives and key external stakeholders.
- 2
VP, EHS & Quality (from a large, complex organisation)
Direct entry (0-1 year)Skills to master
- Adapting to our specific industry and organisational culture, quickly building rapport with our Board and Executive Team, and understanding our unique global footprint and regulatory challenges.
You're ready to move on when
- Proven track record of success in a comparable C-suite or near-C-suite role in a similarly complex industry.
- Strong external network and reputation as a thought leader in CQHS.
- Clear vision for how to elevate our CQHS function and integrate it more deeply into our business strategy.
- Demonstrated ability to quickly assess and address critical strategic risks upon entry.
- 3
General Counsel / Chief Risk Officer (with strong CQHS background)
2-4 yearsSkills to master
- Deepening understanding of operational CQHS specifics, building a global functional team, and shifting from a purely legal/risk lens to a broader operational and cultural leadership role.
You're ready to move on when
- Successfully managed major regulatory litigation or investigations.
- Developed and implemented enterprise-wide risk management frameworks that included significant CQHS components.
- Demonstrated strong leadership of cross-functional teams and ability to drive change beyond legal mandates.
- Clear passion for and practical understanding of health, safety, and quality principles.