Director, Safety & Risk Management – Protecting People, Driving Excellence
Safety + Strategy + Employee Wellbeing

Do you believe that safe workplaces empower employees to thrive? At Whitsons Culinary Group, we’re seeking a dedicated Director, Safety & Risk Management to lead our workers’ compensation program and champion a culture of care. This role ensures injured employees receive the support they need, while driving cost-effective, compliant, and proactive claims management. If you’re passionate about building safer environments, protecting people, and reducing organizational risk, this is your chance to make a lasting impact.

What You’ll Do

As the Director, Safety & Risk Management, you’ll oversee all aspects of workers’ compensation strategy across our multi-state operations. You’ll act as the primary liaison between Whitsons, our TPAs, carriers, and medical providers—while keeping employee wellbeing at the center of everything you do.

Lead the full lifecycle of workers’ compensation claims—from first report of injury through closure—ensuring accuracy, compliance, and timely resolution. Partner with TPAs and carriers to drive effective claim investigations, medical management, and settlement negotiations. Oversee thorough incident investigations, ensuring complete and compliant documentation. Communicate with injured employees, managers, and stakeholders with empathy, clarity, and professionalism. Monitor compliance with state and federal workers’ compensation regulations, with particular expertise in NY, NJ, PA, IL, and MA. Coordinate and support return-to-work programs, including light-duty and accommodations. Analyze claims data to identify trends, assess performance, and recommend improvements. Deliver training on safety awareness, workers’ compensation procedures, and injury prevention. Partner cross-functionally to integrate workers’ comp practices into broader safety and HR initiatives.

What You Bring

We’re looking for a collaborative, strategic leader who balances business needs with employee care.

Bachelor’s degree in Business, HR, Risk Management, or related field (or equivalent experience). 10–15 years of direct experience managing high-volume workers’ compensation claims in the U.S. Deep knowledge of NY, NJ, PA, IL, and MA workers’ comp regulations. Proven success partnering with TPAs and carriers to achieve strong outcomes. Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills. Ability to manage a large caseload in a fast-paced environment. Empathy, discretion, and a strong commitment to supporting injured workers. Servant-leadership mindset with a drive for continuous improvement.

Why You’ll Love Working With Us

Competitive base salary + bonus potential Health, dental, and vision insurance Generous paid time off   401(k) with company match Professional growth opportunities in a mission-driven organization The chance to make a real difference by protecting employees and strengthening our culture of safety

About Whitsons

Whitsons Culinary Group is committed to Enhancing Life One Meal at a Time™—and that starts with our people. We’re a family-owned, mission-driven company that values integrity, care, and continuous improvement. As Director, Safety & Risk Management, you’ll be a key player in ensuring our employees are supported, our workplaces are safe, and our culture continues to thrive.

 

Salary starting at $120K