When I left home at 16 to join the British Army, I had no idea it would shape the rest of my life. I didn’t set out to run a health and safety consultancy—but every role, operation, and challenge since then has prepared me to build a business that protects lives and helps companies thrive.
A Young Sapper Learning Fast
I joined the Royal Engineers (Sappers) as a Junior Leader. That year taught me discipline, resilience, and how to lead under pressure. As I progressed into adult training, I was posted to Germany and spent the next few years learning a wide range of technical and tactical skills.
Bridge-building. Civil engineering. Demolition. Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD). Airfield damage repair. Water supply. Instruction. Protection planning. Leadership.
I served in Nienburg, Waterbeach, Chatham, Wimbish—and took part in operations in Belize and the Gulf War (Operation Granby) across Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Iraq.
Transitioning to Civilian Life
Leaving the military wasn’t easy. But the NEBOSH General Certificate I completed during resettlement opened the next door.
My first civilian role was with The Health and Safety People—a fantastic team who taught me the fundamentals of commercial health and safety work. I then joined Crosby Homes, where I met Nick Robins, a leader who showed me what good management really looked like. When Crosby was acquired by Lendlease, I made the leap and started my own consultancy.
In 2003, Crossroad H&S Systems was born. It was tough, rewarding, and taught me the hard lessons of pricing, time value, and what kind of clients we wanted to work with.
Why I Founded The Safety Department Ltd
By 2010, it was clear the industry was shifting. Small construction firms were overwhelmed by H&S compliance. Meanwhile, the sector was flooded with unregulated “advisors” with wildly different levels of competence.
That didn’t sit right with me.
I wanted to build something better. A consultancy that genuinely took the burden off SMEs and micro businesses. One that raised the bar on competence and integrity in safety advice.
That’s when The Safety Department Ltd was formed. Not just as a name—but as a promise.
“We Can Be Your Safety Department” – What That Really Means
When we say we can be your safety department, we mean:
- Being embedded in your business
- Staying involved and in the loop
- Giving practical, timely advice
- Showing up when things get difficult
- Carrying out inspections, audits, and CDM duties with real insight
Recently, we’ve expanded our Principal Designer consultancy under CDM and Building Regulations. That’s allowed us to support more clients—from construction and developers to architects and retail.
What I’m Most Proud Of
Running this business alongside my son is a real privilege. But it’s not just about family—it’s about impact.
Every week, our inspectors are out on sites offering advice that makes a difference. And sometimes, that advice literally saves lives.
Just last month, one of our team recommended fall arrest netting under skylights due for work. The nets were installed the next day. Someone fell through the skylight shortly after—but walked away unscathed.
We’ve helped protect workers on some of London’s landmark buildings. Whether through inspections or as Principal Designer, it’s a legacy you can see in the skyline.
Final Thoughts
I’ve seen first-hand what poor safety advice can cost. That’s why our work isn’t about ticking boxes—it’s about protecting people and improving standards.
If you’re in construction, engineering, or development, and you’re looking for more than a paperwork service, we should talk.
