Robert Burns

Results-driven and chartered HSE professional with over 30 years of global experience, including 20+ years in senior HSE leadership roles across the Middle East. Proven expertise in driving proactive safety cultures, implementing ISO-compliant management systems, and leading high-performing teams on large-scale infrastructure and construction projects. Recognized for delivering measurable improvements in health, safety, environmental performance, and compliance while fostering stakeholder engagement and sustainable business growth.

Robert Burns is a highly experienced Chartered Health and Safety Professional (CMIOSH) with over 30 years of global expertise, including 20+ years in senior HSE Leadership roles across the Middle East and UK. His career highlights include

Key Roles and Achievements

• Senior Health and Safety Manager – Al Bawani Group (Riyadh, KSA | 2024–Present) - Led ISO 45001-compliant HSE systems for the King Salman Park Project (3.8B SAR). Reduced reportable incidents by 30% through hazard assessments and corrective actions.
• HSE Lead/Director – Balfour Beatty/Highways England (UK | 2021–2024)

Oversaw HSE strategy for £2B infrastructure projects, achieving Zero Harm targets.

Improved incident reporting accuracy by 40% and team productivity by 15%.

• HSE Lead/Director – NEOM Project (KSA | 2017–2021)

Developed the national OSH governance framework for the $500B NEOM giga-project.

Integrated ISO 45001/14001 standards across construction, energy, and logistics sectors.

4.Head of HSE – Darwish Bin Ahmed & Sons Group (UAE | 2009–2017)

Managed HSE for 11 companies (32,000+ employees), reducing incidents by 25%.

Delivered compliance for major UAE projects (e.g., Al Salam Tunnel, Khalifa Port).

• Earlier Roles (2006–2009)

Established HSE departments for GHD UAE and Al Ryum Contracting, ensuring compliance with UAE/international standards.

Core Strengths

Strategic HSE Leadership ISO Compliance (45001/14001/9001) | Risk Mitigation

Behavioral Safety Programs | Incident Investigation | Stakeholder Engagement

Robert’s career demonstrates a consistent ability to enhance safety performance, drive compliance, and lead teams on high-value projects globally.

MSc in Occupational Health, Safety, and Environmental Management (Completion: Oct 2025)

Chartered Member of IOSH (CMIOSH) – Premier HSE accreditation demonstrating leadership in safety management

OTHM Level 6 Diploma in Occupational Health and Safety – Advanced qualification in HSE best practices

Lead Auditor Certifications – ISO 9001 (Quality), ISO 14001 (Environment), OHSAS 18001 (OH&S)

NVQ Level 4 in Occupational Health and Safety – Practical, competency-based certification

NEBOSH National General Certificate – Globally recognized HSE credential

City & Guilds Occupational Health and Safety – Foundational training in workplace safety