HSE People is proud to be working with a team of Champions to raise the profile of the HSE industry and to support our members. Today we speak with Hugh Maxwell, Global Head of Health and Safety with Leviat, part of the CRH Group.
What is your job title, where do you work and what do you do?
I am Global Head of Health and Safety with Leviat, part of the CRH Group. Leviat manufacture a range of speciality construction products around the globe. I live in Lichfield, Staffordshire but work locations extend around the globe. I collaborate closely with employees at all levels, increasing risk awareness, management and employee engagement and empowerment and taking businesses to greater levels of improved health and safety performance for all stakeholders.
How did you get started in HSE?
Unbelievably being in the right place at the wrong time! I came into Health and Safety from a Chemical and Safety background in the mid-1990s and am proud to have developed a long-standing career in this field. I was not truly sure if it was for me to begin with as a career. I soon found out that the scope of involvement, technical knowledge, people skills and strong felt leadership requirements would mean no two days are the same and you would always need to maintain an elevated level of personal performance and commitment.
Why did you want to become an HSE People Champion?
I am a big believer in paying back and sharing with others. I have been extremely fortunate to experience some challenging but rewarding roles, developing my knowledge, skills, experience, and abilities. It is so important that we continue to raise standards in protecting people’s lives, health, livelihoods, welfare, and wellbeing. I already work hard both inside and outside of work to share and develop others. I have enthusiastic respect for HSE People, and the community created through their efforts and energies. This is again part of my way of giving back and supporting the ongoing success and development of others.
Who or what inspires you?
My wife, family, and many others around me with whom I have had the opportunity to share and develop with. Every day is a learning day for us all.
What are you excited about for 2023?
Working and sharing knowledge, learnings, and priorities further in new and existing places. Family is particularly important to me, and we are looking forward to our first grandchild very soon and thereafter a new adventure for us all. I aim to start writing my first book this year and further share experiences and my learnings even further with others. In work, meeting and sharing ideas, challenges, and improvement initiatives across the global community, increasing engagement, reducing risks, and supporting the development of a stronger safety focus.
If you could have a superpower, what would it be?
As with most safety and risk professionals, time travel would be the desired power. Taking current knowledge and developments back to prevent accidents and injuries through increased engagement and knowledge.
Describe yourself in three words.
Focused, analytical and supportive.
We’re so thrilled to be working with you again Hugh, thank you for your time.
