Environmental, Health and Safety Director (Quinnesec, Escanaba, Wisconsin Rapids)

Job description

Purpose:

What if you could go to work and contribute to a sustainable future? Billerud is a leading sustainable packaging materials and paper company. We are passionate paper makers committed to providing the best solutions to our customers.  It is our goal to deliver a quality product, on time.  We offer competitive compensation, full benefits, opportunities for growth and advancement, and an understanding that our employees make us successful.

If you are passionate about what you do and driven to do it well, there is a place for you at Billerud!

Summary Description:

The Environmental, Health and Safety Director is responsible for leading the development, implementation, and oversight of comprehensive environmental, health and safety systems to ensure compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, policies, permits and contracts. Reporting to the Senior Vice President, Operations, this role partners with senior leaders and supports teams across manufacturing sites, corporate functions and European counterparts.  Key responsibilities include managing and supporting local mill environmental and safety teams to ensure consistent application and compliance of state and federal environmental and safety standards.   Additional responsibilities include maintaining up-to-date processes, conducting audits and assessments with effective follow-up, providing regular compliance updates, and communicating regulatory changes to ensure organizational alignment.

Qualifications

Key Accountabilities:

• Lead the development, implementation, and continuous improvement of company-wide environmental, health and safety systems and programs to ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, policies, permits and contracts.
• Champion employee engagement in environmental compliance and safety programs through communication, recognition, and involvement in initiatives.
• Integrate Human and Organizational Performance (HOP) principles into the company’s safety management systems and practices.
• Monitor and enforce compliance across all operational areas through structured audits, assessments, and effective follow-up on corrective actions.
• Manage and support local mill environmental and safety teams, ensuring consistent application of standards and sharing of best practices.
• Maintain and update written environmental, health and safety processes and procedures to reflect current regulatory requirements and organizational needs.
• Stay informed of emerging legislation and proactively communicate relevant updates across the organization.
• Provide regular reports and insights to the Senior Vice President, Operations, on compliance status, risk areas, and opportunities for improvement.
• Collaborate with American Management Team (AMT), cross-functional teams and European counterparts to develop the framework and strategy for continuous improvement.
• Develop and deliver training programs to enhance environmental and safety awareness and ensure consistent understanding of requirements across all levels of the organization.
• Lead incident investigations, root cause analyses, and corrective action planning to prevent recurrence and drive continuous improvement.
• Support company sustainability initiatives and Science Based Target (SBT) commitments.
• Maintain and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of environmental, health and safety initiatives and drive data-informed decisions.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for external regulatory agencies during inspections, audits, or inquiries.
• Support emergency preparedness and response planning, including drills, documentation, and coordination with local authorities as needed.

Personal qualities

Required Experience and Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental Science, Industrial Engineering;  Master’s degree or relevant certifications (e.g., CSP, CIH) preferred.
• Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in environmental, health and safety roles, with at least 5 years in a leadership or director-level position within a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Strong understanding of OSHA, EPA, and other relevant local, state and federal regulations.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams, influence senior leadership, and drive organizational change.
• Demonstrated experience developing and managing audit programs, conducting assessments, and implementing corrective actions.
• Excellent written, verbal and presentation skills, with the ability to clearly convey complex information to diverse audiences.
• Strong problem-solving and analytical skills, with the ability to interpret data and make informed decisions.
• Ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously, prioritize tasks, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and safety management systems; experience with data reporting tools is a plus.
• Willingness to travel to company sites in Wisconsin, Michigan and Ohio, as needed (estimated >50%). 

Application information

Billerud NA is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer. All qualified
applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to
race, color, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin,
protected veteran status or status as an individual with a disability.

Why us?

• Be part of a dynamic team within Billerud
• An opportunity to contribute to a more sustainable future
• Development and career opportunities
• Tuition reimbursement and certificate courses offered through partner schools.
• Performance-based bonus
• You can choose among three medical plans designed to help you and your family stay healthy (with virtual care options!).
• Generous 401K match including discretionary annual contribution
• HSA Contribution match with additional contribution for annual preventive exam
• Dental & Vision coverage
• Company paid Disability Coverage
• Wellness rewards program
• Prescription Benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Opportunity to hybrid working according to company standard

Our recruitment process may include interviews, recruitment test, reference
checks, and alcohol & drug testing.