At IPSL, our commitment to excellence is embodied by our dedicated team, and one standout leader among them is Emrys Pritchard MBE, our Director of Health and Safety at IPSL and Group Director of Safety, Health, and Environment (SHE).
With a passion for collaboration and a drive for innovation, Emrys is transforming the IPSL approach to safety and health, ensuring not only compliance is achieved but also fostering a culture of teamwork and continuous improvement.
Emrys has shared insights into his career journey, his role at IPSL, and his vision for the future:
Tell us a bit about your role at IPSL.
“When I first joined IPSL, our approach was insular, with little collaboration among team members. Recognising the limitations of this approach, I initiated discussions with business support to foster a more collaborative environment. Two audits later, it’s evident that working together has generated greater results compared to individual efforts. Our team now has a voice and a shared sense of purpose which helps us to work at our best.
“My role as Director of SHE is multifaceted, I ensure that the legislative elements pertaining to safety, health, and environment are not only maintained but also effectively implemented and completed. I am also currently leading the development of an integrated management system, which will streamline our business operations and enhance efficiency.
“Recently, IPSL passed its annual audit for ISO 45001 certification with no non-conformities, a testament to our commitment to the compliance of health and safety laws. This international standard enables us to systematically assess hazards and implement effective risk control measures, ultimately reducing workplace injuries, illnesses, and incidents.”
What does a typical week in your department look like?
“As the Director of SHE, I carry partial responsibility to the board of health and safety. This means my responsibilities vary; one moment, I may be addressing matters for our parent company, Semperian Group, while simultaneously heading up the SHE department within IPSL.
“In addition, I provide support to the managing director of asset management and assurance services, offering a comprehensive perspective from my role as head of department at IPSL.
“One of my favourite projects to work on was the RAAC review, providing appropriate risk management where RAAC was present. It was both challenging and rewarding to ensure the safety and structural integrity of the buildings.”
What sparked your interest in the safety, health and environment field?
“After dedicating 24 years to the Royal Engineers, specialising in construction and project management, my journey into health and safety began somewhat unexpectedly when I was asked to support a project down in London, Watford. Following the job interview, I got offered a health and safety role on a £350 million hospital project in Peterborough.
“Interestingly, my transition into health and safety still aligned closely with my military experience. Both roles share a common goal: to prioritise the safety and well-being of individuals. While my career path may have shifted, my commitment to this fundamental objective remains unwavering.”
Are there specific skills or qualities you believe are crucial for success in your role?
“I think if someone would like to succeed in their role as a Director of SHE, maintaining composure under pressure is paramount. A deep understanding of health and safety principles is essential, coupled with the ability to remain knowledgeable and adaptable in evolving circumstances.
“Equally crucial is the skill of active listening. It’s imperative to genuinely hear and consider the perspectives of others, refraining from dismissing valuable insights and always encourage a collaborative working environment especially across departments.
“Drawing from my military experience, I’ve learned the significance of maintaining a positive outlook. Adopting a ‘glass half full’ mentality not only fosters resilience but also cultivates constructive relationships, ensuring positive outcomes in every interaction.”
Looking ahead, do you have any future goals or aspirations in your role as Director of Safety Health and Environment?
“I’m enthusiastic about propelling our entire business to new heights by embracing technology in our operations. I wholeheartedly advocate for integration of solutions to streamline our processes and enhance efficiency, and our integrated management system across all four standards plays a pivotal role in this endeavour.”
