Paul Barclay

Describe what a typical day at work looks like for you

One of the beauties of my role is that it is so diverse that there really is no such thing as a typical day.  One day could be spent reviewing documentation such as policies, procedures and risk assessments in the wake of an incident.  The next could be attending Court as an expert witness in defence of an employee liability or public liability claim.  A major part of my week however would be spent liaising with insurers, insurance brokers, enforcement authorities and solicitors. A small amount of time is spent regularly auditing the estate for legal compliance.

Who and what are you responsible for?

We have three member of the Health and Safety team including myself.  Patrick Scullion has been with the Group and team for 6 years now and Kelly Gibney joined us a year ago.  In addition to Health and Safety throughout the Group we also manage fleet and liability insurance claims from inception to court hearing.

How does your team fit into the Henderson Group?

As Group Health and Safety Manager I report directly to the Human Resources Director, but have a professional report to the Group Chief Financial Officer Ron Whitten and the Logistics Director Pat McGarry.

What are the best bits about your job?

I am a Member of the International Institute for Risk and Safety Management, MIIRSM. I have 25 years experience in this field and have appearenced in court to give evidence over 100 times.

Best bits about your company (Henderson Wholesale)?

I work for the Group so in effect all of the entities above.  The flexibility in starting and finishing times afforded to me as an employee is appreciated greatly.  This helps me manage family commitments whilst maintaining full time employment.  I appreciate this is mainly discretionary.

What is the best thing about your team?

It is small and intimate.  No hiding place so we need to get on with each other.

What attracted you to Henderson Group?

Their size and stature in NI society.

When not working, what can you be found doing?

Looking at old cars. Otherwise doing as little as possible!