Martin Temple
Martin Temple CBE, previous chair of EEF Manufacturers’ Organisation, will take over the role of chair of the Health and Safety Executive, following Dame Judith Hackitt’s departure.
Judith, who was chair of HSE for 9 years, has taken up Martin’s former post as chair of the EEF manufacturers’ body.
Martin has over 30 years’ experience in private and public sector roles, including positions at the Sheffield Hospital Trust as well as EEF Manufacturers’ Organisation. He has previously worked with HSE, leading an independent triennial review of the HSE in 2014.
In his triennial review of HSE, Martin suggested that the government body should become more commercial.
In an interview with SHP in 2014, Martin clarified his position:
“There are two things that would come out of commercialisation. One is clearly an income. That’s obviously a driver. But actually often, the thinking and engagement, which comes from working outside of your normal span of activity also further informs the organisation. I think they would gain even further expertise in delivery and communication as they engaged in some commercial activities.”
He added that he thought it was paramount for the HSE not to be compromised by commercialisation.
Of his new role, Martin said: “I am delighted to be appointed as HSE Chair. I hold a long-standing interest in Health and Safety and look forward to working with HSE and the board to build on its success as a world-leading workplace health and safety regulator and I look forward to this challenge and the opportunities ahead.”
Justin Tomlinson, minister for disabled people with responsibility for the Health and Safety Executive, said in a statement:
“I am delighted with Martin’s appointment. He brings a wealth of experience to the role and joins at a time when the work of the HSE in promoting health and safety amongst employers is as important as ever.
I also want to take this opportunity to thank Judith Hackitt as the outgoing Chair. Under her leadership the organisation has gone from strength to strength.”
Martin will take up his position as chair of HSE on 1 May.
