Rethink HSEQ, in partnership with ioda, are delighted to introduce the Operations Manager Apprenticeship Level 5 – Leadership & Management Programme for HSEQ Professionals.
Built by HSEQ experts, for HSEQ professionals, this programme has been created to address a long-standing gap in leadership development for those working in regulated, high-risk environments.
While HSEQ professionals are increasingly expected to lead teams, influence senior stakeholders and operate strategically, many leadership programmes remain too generic to reflect the realities of the role.
The Operations Manager Apprenticeship Level 5 programme delivers a nationally recognised leadership qualification, contextualised specifically for HSEQ. Through relevant case studies, workshops and coaching, learning is grounded in real-world challenges and designed to be immediately applicable in the workplace.
Part of the evolution of Rethink HSEQ.
As Rethink HSEQ continues to evolve, a key focus is supporting the development of non-technical HSEQ skills, particularly leadership, influence and strategic thinking.
Through collaboration with ioda, Rethink HSEQ has shaped a structured leadership pathway using ioda’s CMI-accredited Management & Leadership programmes at Levels 3, 5 and 7. The Operations Manager Level 5 programme represents a key part of that pathway, with bespoke HSEQ case studies, masterclasses and coaching embedded throughout.
Shona Paterson says:
“For too long, HSEQ professionals have been expected to step into leadership roles without development that truly reflects the complexity of their environment. This programme is about building confidence, strategic thinking and influence - enabling HSEQ leaders to be recognised as genuine business partners, not just compliance specialists.”
The leadership challenge facing HSEQ professionals.
HSEQ professionals are increasingly expected to:
- Lead and develop teams
- Manage organisational and cultural change
- Influence senior leaders and key stakeholders
- Contribute to wider business strategy
However, many technical specialists find themselves underprepared for these expectations, particularly when leadership development lacks relevance to regulated and high-risk settings.
A leadership qualification delivered through an HSEQ lens.
The Operations Manager Level 5 programme provides a nationally recognised leadership qualification, shaped to reflect the realities of HSEQ roles.
Key features include:
- HSEQ-focused case studies and assignments
- Workshops exploring leadership in regulated, high-risk environments
- Practical, workplace-based learning
- Delivery shaped by experienced Rethink HSEQ coaches
The focus is on applying leadership learning directly within participants’ own organisations, rather than abstract theory.
Who the programme is designed for.
This programme is suited to experienced professionals who are:
- HSEQ Managers or Heads of HSEQ
- Senior Advisors stepping into people or operational leadership roles
- Responsible for leading teams, managing change and influencing stakeholders
- Looking to move from operational delivery into strategic leadership
Delivered over 18–24 months, the programme combines structured learning with workplace application. Modules include:
- Inclusive Leadership
- Management Principles
- Leading with Confidence
- Managing a Diverse Team
- Inclusive Change
- Influencing Stakeholders
- Budgets without Bias
Learning is delivered through a blend of virtual workshops, online learning and one-to-one coaching, alongside a workplace business project aligned to organisational priorities.
What participants will achieve.
On successful completion, learners will gain:
- Operations Manager Level 5 Apprenticeship Standard
- CMI Diploma in Management and Leadership
- Chartered Manager Status
These outcomes support both individual career progression and the wider strategic maturity of HSEQ functions.
Funding and accessibility.
The programme is eligible for funding through the UK Apprenticeship Levy and is cost-neutral for many employers, making it a practical development option for organisations investing in future HSEQ leadership capability.
Supporting the next generation of HSEQ leaders.
This programme supports HSEQ professionals to:
- Reframe internal and external perceptions of HSEQ value
- Shift from operational to strategic thinking
- Expand organisational and commercial understanding
- Strengthen leadership, communication and negotiation skills
- Position HSEQ as strategic partners within the business
- Progress confidently towards senior and C-suite roles
