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- Tasks: Lead transformative people and culture initiatives in a dynamic healthcare environment.
- Company: Join NHS Lothian, a key player in Scotland's healthcare system.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, work-life balance, and vibrant community in Edinburgh.
- Why this job: Shape the future of healthcare while making a real impact on people's lives.
- Qualifications: Proven senior HR leadership experience in complex environments.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for career growth and innovation in public healthcare.
The predicted salary is between 87000 - 110000 ÂŁ per year.
NHS Lothian is recruiting an outstanding Deputy Director of People & Culture—a pivotal senior leadership role at the heart of one of Scotland’s largest and most complex healthcare systems. This is an exceptional opportunity to shape the future of the people profession at a time of major transformation across NHS Scotland, and to help lead a directorate central to delivering high‑quality, person‑centred care for our 28,000 colleagues.
A Career‑Defining Moment for People & Culture Leaders
We are a values-driven organisation with an ambitious transformational change programme, and this role comes at a particularly exciting time. New sub‑national planning and delivery structures and the national procurement of an integrated HR, Finance, Procurement and Payroll ERP system provide a rare platform to reimagine the HR operating model across Scotland. NHS Lothian is one of two lead Boards for these reforms and has a well‑established business systems function, placing the successful candidate at the forefront of system‑wide innovation.
About the Role
As Deputy Director, you will provide senior strategic leadership across multiple People & Culture services including Employee Relations, HR Services, HR Systems, Job Evaluation, Pay, Policy, and Whistleblowing. You will ensure a consistent, equitable, modern, and people‑centred approach to workforce policy and practice, while delivering high‑quality services to Scotland’s second‑largest NHS workforce. You will deputise for the Director of People & Culture and play a key part in delivering NHS Lothian’s People & Culture Strategy, Workforce Plan, and the transformation required for a healthy and high‑performing organisation.
What We’re Looking For
We are seeking a senior leader with a strong track record of delivering impactful people and culture outcomes in complex, multi‑professional environments. You will bring substantial senior HR leadership experience within the NHS or a similarly complex organisation. NHS experience is beneficial but not essential; we welcome applications from leaders across sectors who can bring fresh thinking and experience in influencing large‑scale workforce change, improvement and effective partnership working.
Candidates considering relocation will find the Edinburgh and Lothians region offers exceptional work–life balance, vibrant communities, and outstanding cultural and natural assets.
To arrange informal discussion please contact: lynn.grieve@nhs.scot
Closing date for applications: 12 midnight 23rd February 2026. A Stakeholder Assessment Event will take place on Monday 9th March 2026 for all shortlisted candidates and on-line Psychometric Assessments will be issued to shortlisted candidates in advance. Interviews will be held in Edinburgh on Monday 16th March 2026. Applications are by CV with a supporting statement, outlining the qualifications, experience and this opportunity. Please include the names and contact details of two referees, one of whom should be your current employer. These should be returned to: lynn.grieve@nhs.scot
Deputy Director of People & Culture employer: Cipd Hr30
Contact Detail:
Cipd Hr30 Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Director of People & Culture
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the healthcare sector, especially those who have experience with NHS Lothian. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info that could set you apart.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the Stakeholder Assessment Event! Brush up on your leadership skills and be ready to showcase how you can drive impactful people and culture outcomes. Practice makes perfect, so consider mock interviews with friends or mentors.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your unique perspective! If you’re coming from outside the NHS, highlight how your fresh ideas can contribute to transforming workforce practices. We love innovative thinkers who can bring new solutions to the table.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team at NHS Lothian and contributing to our ambitious transformation.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Director of People & Culture
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Deputy Director of People & Culture role. Highlight your relevant experience in HR leadership and any specific achievements that align with NHS Lothian's goals. We want to see how you can bring fresh thinking to our team!
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share your vision for people and culture within a complex organisation like ours, and don’t forget to mention any innovative ideas you have.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a senior leader, we’re looking for someone who can inspire and lead change. In your application, be sure to highlight your leadership style and any successful initiatives you've led in the past. We want to know how you can help us deliver high-quality services!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our values there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cipd Hr30
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand NHS Lothian's People & Culture Strategy and the current challenges in the healthcare sector. Familiarise yourself with recent changes in HR practices and how they impact workforce management. This will show that you're not just interested in the role, but also invested in the organisation's mission.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a senior leader, it's crucial to articulate your leadership philosophy. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams through change, particularly in complex environments. Highlight your experience in influencing large-scale workforce changes and how you foster collaboration across different departments.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities. Think about past experiences where you had to navigate difficult employee relations issues or implement new policies. Be ready to discuss your thought process and the outcomes of your actions.
✨Engage with Your Interviewers
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the organisation's future direction and the specific challenges facing the People & Culture team. This not only demonstrates your interest but also helps you gauge if the role aligns with your career aspirations.
