Emma McCullagh

Background

About Emma McCullagh

I’m a Lead Occupational Health Adviser with 20 years of clinical experience, including over a decade specialising in Occupational Health across public and private sector services. I currently lead the Occupational Health function at Stockton-on-Tees Borough Council, supporting a workforce of around employees through service coordination, clinical governance, risk management, and wellbeing strategy.I’ve developed and improved occupational health systems within a local authority setting, working closely with OH professionals and wider council teams to design effective processes, contribute to policy development, and ensure consistent, high-quality service delivery. I’m skilled at translating operational needs into practical systems and policies that work in real-world settings.My clinical foundation includes respiratory care, A&E, EAU, and senior ward leadership as a Ward Sister. I bring a proactive, solutions-focused mindset and thrive in environments that require problem-solving, stakeholder engagement, and continuous improvement. I’m known for clear communication, strong report writing, and consistently high audit performance (95%+).I’m committed to ongoing learning, service development, and adapting to change to ensure occupational health services remain responsive, compliant, and fit for purpose. I’m passionate about advancing strategic impact in Occupational Health and continuing to develop leadership capability across multidisciplinary teams.I am also a trained Mental Health First Aider, supporting early intervention, wellbeing conversations and psychologically safe working environments. In addition, I have completed practical training in ear care and microsuction techniques via Rotherham ENT Department, enhancing my capability to support safe and effective hearing assessments within occupational health settings.