Malcolm Staves
Global VP Health & Safety
L’Oréal
When practice meets safety science, the challenge of multinational operations: unpacking L’Oréal’s Health & Safety strategy, journey and performance
Co-presented with Jean-Christophe Le Coze
This presentation draws on the results of a study linking the latest research in safety science on the diversity of schools in the field (e.g., Behavioural Based Safety (BBS), new view, risk analysis, High Reliability Organizations (HRO), safety culture, psychological safety, HOP etc.) with the experience of a multinational, L’Oréal, which has developed a recognized high performing Health & Safety strategy through the deployment of tools and programs. The study discusses the key elements of this strategy in relation to safety science, the challenges, and the perspectives of a multinational learning to adapt as the operating landscape of businesses constantly evolve, with sites on different continents and diverse cultures.
Moving back and forth between research and practice, unveiling L’Oréal’s hybrid and integrated Health & safety approach, focusing on some of its key features (e.g., people-oriented, maturity driven). The presentation provides a unique space to explore the development of Health & Safety strategies, from design and implementation to evolution and adaptation and creates a space for open reflections, and dialogue on the realities of the challenge of multinational operations learning from the journey strategy implemented in L’Oréal for over 15 years. Attendees will be able to compare where they are on their cultural journey which may give insights into their future strategy development.
Malcolm is a Fellow of the Institution of Chemical Engineers and International Institute of Risk and Safety Management. He has a degree in Chemical Engineering and a MSc in Integrated Environmental Management.
Previously a site engineering technologist and a plant manager he has worked in Corporate Environment, Health & Safety for several companies before joining L’Oréal, in 2009. In L’Oréal Malcolm has developed strategies for the globalization of health & safety with a focus on risk management, visible felt leadership, and putting people in the center. L’Oréal’s approach to health and safety culture and high risk management is considered a benchmark for many corporations.
He is known for his networking and sharing as well as his hummingbird approach which was the subject of his 2022 TEDx talk and is considered a futuristic thought leader in Health & Safety.
He is married and lives in France with his three children and enjoys anything to do with space, science fiction and following Chelsea soccer club.