The Human Side of HSEQ

Our mission is to address a critical gap in the profession: the development of non-technical skills.

Rethink HSEQ was born because there was no dedicated space to develop non technical skills.

We recognise that many senior leaders don’t have the time, resources, or support to develop these skills, either in themselves or within their teams.

At the same time, these capabilities have never been more critical. As organisations expect greater efficiency and influence from HSEQ functions, the whole team needs to be equipped to communicate effectively, influence others, collaborate, think strategically, and lead with confidence.

This goes beyond technical expertise. It requires a fundamentally different way of thinking and working.

At Rethink HSEQ, we have created multiple development pathways to support individuals in building the non-technical skills that truly make a difference.

Our practical, participant-led learning cuts through the noise and focuses on real-world application, enabling learners to see tangible results.

By tackling the profession’s challenges head-on, we empower our community to learn, grow, and return to their organisations ready to make meaningful, lasting impact.

We’re not traditional HSEQ training — and proudly so

Our work is deeply human, highly interactive, and built around real challenges professionals face every day.

We are community-led

Rethink is shaped by the professionals we serve. Their experiences, challenges, and aspirations guide everything we do.

We focus on the whole person

Skills matter — but so does mindset, behaviour, and confidence. We develop all three

We create learning that sticks

Our events are practical, emotional, memorable — the kind of experiences that shift perspective and build confidence.

Founders

Shona Paterson

Director of Rethink HSEQ

Shona is the Managing Director and co-founder of Rethink HSEQ, leading its mission to develop the non-technical skills that drive impact. She is recognised for her people-centred leadership and commitment to helping HSEQ professionals build confidence, influence and capability.

Shirley Parsons

Co-founder, Shirley Parsons & Global Brand Ambassador

Shirley is the co-founder of Shirley Parsons and a highly respected leader in the HSEQ profession, now serving as Global Brand Ambassador. She is recognised for her contribution to advancing industry standards, supporting career development, and championing global ESG and CSR initiatives.

Jay Vekaria

Global Group Head of Health, Safety & Wellbeing

Jay is an award-winning HSQE and risk professional, currently serving as Global Group Head of Health, Safety & Wellbeing at Lloyds Banking Group. He is recognised for his leadership and influence in advancing health, safety and wellbeing across complex organisational environments.

James Hymers

Director, Honest Safety

James a Director at Honest Safety and a member of the Rethink HSEQ Steering Committee, with a strong focus on embedding safety into every project. He is recognised for his practical, solutions-focused approach and his commitment to improving how health and safety is applied across diverse sectors.

Jerry Flechais

Safety and Risk Manager, Coach and Auditor

Jerry is a safety and risk management consultant, coach and auditor with over 20 years’ experience in the health and safety industry. He is recognised for his creative, pragmatic approach and his passion for bringing clarity and common sense to risk management.

Our Vision

A profession where HSEQ leaders are not only technically excellent, but recognised for their influence, impact, and ability to shape safer, healthier, more sustainable workplaces.

We want every HSEQ professional to have the support, development, and confidence they need to thrive — not just in their roles, but in their careers.

Our Promise

We will continue to challenge norms, rethink the status quo, and create development experiences that truly transform how HSEQ professionals show up in their organisations.