This year, Compass HSC marks its 23rd anniversary. Founded in 2002, Compass began as a consultancy shaped by over two decades of experience at ICI Chemicals and Polymers—one of the UK’s most respected chemical companies of its time. Today, we remain as committed as ever to delivering expert, honest, and high-quality health and safety support to clients across the UK.
A Foundation Built on Experience
In 2002, I founded Compass Health & Safety Consultancy with a simple aim: to build something that reflected the knowledge and experience I’d gained over 26 years with ICI Chemicals and Polymers. I wanted Compass to stand for something—excellence, integrity, professionalism—and I’m proud to say that 23 years later, it still does.
For those of you who weren’t around when ICI was a household name, it was one of the most respected employers of its time. I joined in 1977 and stayed until 2003, and the lessons I learned there have shaped everything I’ve done since. ICI had a unique culture—one that genuinely supported personal development and prioritised health, safety, and the environment above all else. It didn’t matter who you were or what your job title said—you were encouraged to reach your full potential.
Those values are still with me today. They live on through Compass HSC.
From One Industry to All
Over the past 23 years, I’ve worked across a wide range of industries, primarily providing CDM Services—with the Principal Designer role being a key part of what I do. Every new project offers an opportunity to learn and adapt, and I still find myself drawing comparisons with the standards and practices I was immersed in during my time at ICI.
So, what does it take to build and run a successful consultancy?
Here’s what I’ve learned:
- Excel at what you do. Be the best you can be, every single day. There are no shortcuts to success.
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Exceed client expectations. Our “above and beyond” mindset has been there from the start.
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Work hard. This path takes sacrifice and selflessness—but it’s worth it.
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Persevere. Resilience and grit are determination. The road won’t always be smooth.
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Keep learning. Reflect, grow, stay curious. That’s how you stay sharp.
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Support. Running a business can be lonely. I’m forever grateful to my partner, family, and friends who’ve kept me grounded—and occasionally a needed kick up the backside!
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Welcome luck. Some of my biggest breaks came by chance. Be ready to take them.
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Stay credible. Be professional, set your standards, and never compromise your values—especially when it’s hard. Sometimes walking away is the right thing to do.
Looking Ahead
At 66, I still have the drive, energy, and genuine joy that first motivated me to start this journey. I still care deeply about helping businesses meet their health and safety responsibilities—not just to tick boxes, but to do things properly.
So, to everyone we’ve worked with, supported, learned from, and grown alongside over the past 23 years—thank you.
Brian