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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic direction for People, Communications & Engagement in a transformative role.
- Company: Join the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, a vital public service across Scotland.
- Benefits: Make a national impact while working with a committed leadership team.
- Why this job: Shape organisational culture and support safer communities at a national scale.
- Qualifications: Senior HR leadership experience and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Opportunity to drive change and champion diversity in a dynamic environment.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
The SFRS protects one of the largest geographical areas of any Fire and Rescue Service with over 350 Community Fire Stations and corporate locations across Scotland. We manage a diverse range of risks, from urban cities to remote and rural island locations. Our Corporate Services teams, including our People, Communications & Engagement Directorate, provide the enabling, professional services that support front line delivery.
About the Role
The Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) is seeking an exceptional senior leader to join our Strategic Leadership Team as Director of People, Communications & Engagement. This is a pivotal role at a time of significant organisational transformation — an opportunity to shape the culture, leadership, and strategic direction of the UK’s largest fire and rescue service.
The Director of People, Communications & Engagement will lead a newly formed Directorate that brings together the full breadth of People, Communications and Engagement functions. You will provide strategic leadership across all areas of People Services, Talent, Organisational Development, Workforce Planning, Media & Communications, and Public Engagement.
Working as part of the Strategic Leadership Team (SLT), you will influence corporate strategy, drive service-wide improvement, and ensure SFRS continues to deliver for communities across Scotland through a high performing, inclusive and engaged workforce. This role offers the chance to lead at scale, shape organisational culture, and ensure SFRS remains an employer of choice that reflects Scotland’s diverse communities.
Key Responsibilities
- Set the strategic direction for People, Communications & Engagement across SFRS.
- Lead the development and implementation of service-wide strategies that foster a high-performing, values driven culture.
- Oversee all People functions, including recruitment, employee relations, talent development, reward, and workforce planning.
- Provide executive leadership on all internal and external communications, including media relations, political engagement, digital platforms and corporate communications.
- Lead public engagement activity, ensuring transparent and meaningful consultation with communities and stakeholders.
- Drive organisational change and reform, ensuring SFRS remains agile, innovative, and future focused.
- Champion diversity, equality and inclusion, embedding fairness, dignity and opportunity in all aspects of the organisation.
- Provide strategic advice to the Chief Officer, Board, and SLT colleagues.
- Manage Directorate resources, risk and governance to the highest standard.
- Build and maintain relationships with partners including Scottish Government, Parliament, local authorities and trade unions.
About You
You will be an accomplished senior HR leader with a strong track record of delivering results within a large and complex organisation. Able to operate confidently at executive level, you will bring:
- Advanced Diploma in Strategic People Management / Strategic Learning & Development (or equivalent experience).
- Extensive senior leadership experience across HR, organisational development and/or major change programmes.
- Experienced leadership of broad, multi-functional teams.
- Strong understanding of employment law, workforce planning and HR best practice.
- Significant experience advancing equality, diversity and inclusion.
- Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills, able to influence and inspire at all levels.
- Demonstrable political awareness and experience engaging with senior stakeholders.
- Experience in highly unionised or public sector environments.
- Senior-level leadership of strategic internal or external communications.
Personal Attributes
- A strategic thinker who delivers tangible results.
- Collaborative, inclusive and values-driven.
- Committed to public service and continuous improvement.
Why Join Us?
SFRS offers a unique opportunity to make a difference at national scale — supporting safer communities and shaping the future of a vital public service. You will join a highly committed leadership team working in partnership to deliver meaningful and lasting impact across Scotland.
How to Apply
Applications should be submitted via CV and covering note. Please note that the closing date for applications is Friday 6th March 2026 at 12:00 noon. For further information or a confidential discussion, contact Jaclyn Needham.
Director of People, Communications & Engagement in Cambuslang employer: FWB
Contact Detail:
FWB Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of People, Communications & Engagement in Cambuslang
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your industry, especially those connected to SFRS. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching SFRS thoroughly. Understand their values, recent initiatives, and challenges they face. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you’re genuinely interested in shaping their culture and leadership.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to articulate how your experience aligns with the role of Director of People, Communications & Engagement. Highlight your achievements in HR and organisational development, and how you can drive change at SFRS.
✨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 the SFRS team and making a difference in Scotland’s communities.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of People, Communications & Engagement in Cambuslang
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Director of People, Communications & Engagement role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant achievements in HR and organisational development.
Craft a Compelling Cover Note: Your cover note is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share your vision for shaping culture and engagement within SFRS, and don’t forget to mention your commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Showcase Your Strategic Thinking: In both your CV and cover note, demonstrate your ability to think strategically. Discuss how you've led change in previous roles and how you plan to drive service-wide improvement at SFRS.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to lead at scale!
How to prepare for a job interview at FWB
✨Know the Organisation Inside Out
Before your interview, dive deep into the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service's mission, values, and recent initiatives. Understanding their strategic direction and how the People, Communications & Engagement Directorate fits into that will show your genuine interest and help you align your answers with their goals.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Given the role's focus on leadership and organisational change, be ready to discuss specific scenarios where you've successfully led teams through transformation. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses and highlight your strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
✨Showcase Your Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
As championing diversity is a key responsibility, prepare examples of how you've advanced equality and inclusion in previous roles. Discuss initiatives you've led or contributed to, and be ready to share your vision for fostering an inclusive culture within SFRS.
✨Engage with Your Interviewers
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the organisation's current challenges and future plans. This not only demonstrates your interest but also gives you insight into how you can contribute to their success as the Director of People, Communications & Engagement.
