Position Overview

We are seeking an accomplished Senior Director of Quality, Health, Safety & Environment (QHSE) to lead and oversee enterprise wide QHSE strategy and execution. This position reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer and plays a critical role in shaping organizational standards, risk management, and operational excellence.

The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in ISO-certified management systems and will serve as the executive owner of quality, safety, and environmental compliance across the organization while fostering a strong culture of continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Own and lead the organization’s global QHSE strategy, policies, and programs aligned with business objectives
• Serve as executive sponsor for ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001, ensuring certification, compliance, and continuous improvement
• Oversee Quality Management Systems to ensure consistent delivery of compliant products and services
• Lead Health & Safetyprograms to maintain a safe workplace and achieve zero-incident objectives
• Drive environmental management initiatives and readiness for external certification and audits
• Provide executive-level reporting on QHSE performance, risk exposure, and improvement opportunities to the CEO and senior leadership
• Partner with leadership teams to embed QHSE principles into daily operations and long-term strategic planning
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing QHSE team across multiple locations
• Ensure readiness for regulatory reviews, external audits, inspections, and certifications

Qualifications

Required:

• Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Environmental Science, Occupational Health & Safety, Quality Management, or related field (Master’s preferred)
• 15+ years of progressive QHSE experience, including 5+ years in a senior leadership role
• Expert-level knowledge of ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001
• Experience leading ISO certification, recertification, and audit processes
• Strong knowledge of global regulatory frameworks (CE, COLREGS, IMO; comparable aviation standards acceptable)
• Maritime experience required
• Demonstrated success driving QHSE culture transformation and organizational change
• Strong executive presence with the ability to influence at all levels
• Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder engagement skills

Work Environment

• Primarily on-site role (4 days per week)
• Up to 1 remote day per week

Benefits

• Medical Insurance
• Dental Insurance
• Vision Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Disability Insurance
• 401(k)

Ascendo is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability

Ascendo is a certified minority owned staffing firm, and we welcome and celebrate diversity. Ascendo is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, parental status, military service or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.

Contact information

Shelsea Rodriguez