At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead HR strategy and shape the future of public transport in Edinburgh.
- Company: Join Lothian Group, a key player in Scotland's transport network.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership role, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to influence culture and performance in a large organisation.
- Why this job: Be part of a transformative journey in integrated public transport.
- Qualifications: Proven HR leadership experience and strong industrial relations expertise.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Shape the future of public transport in Edinburgh. The Lothian Group plays a vital role in the daily life of Scotland’s capital and the wider Lothian region. Every day, our bus and tram services connect communities, power the local economy and enable hundreds of thousands of journeys—safely, reliably and affordably. Both Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams are recognised as the gold standard for public transport performance in the UK.
As we move into the next phase of integration across our bus and tram operations, we are seeking an exceptional Human Resources Director to play a pivotal role in shaping our future — leading the development of a unified, high-performing organisation of over 3,000 colleagues. Reporting to the Chief Executive and sitting on the Director Team, you will provide strategic people leadership across Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams, working in close partnership with fellow directors to support safe, reliable and sustainable service delivery.
We are seeking an accomplished and credible HR leader who is comfortable operating at Board level, providing clear advice, constructive challenge and confident leadership during a period of organisational integration and transformation. This is a critical leadership role at a defining moment in our journey, with direct impact on how we operate, lead and evolve as a fully integrated transport group.
We are particularly interested in candidates who can demonstrate:
- Significant experience in Executive-level HR leadership within a large, complex and unionised environment
- A strong track record of delivering organisational change and transformation, ideally within a multi-site or operational context
- Deep expertise in industrial relations and employment law, with the ability to manage complex and high-risk matters
- The credibility and judgement to influence, challenge and build trusted relationships at the most senior levels
- A collaborative, values-led leadership style, with a strong focus on culture, engagement and organisational performance
- A CIPD qualification (Level 7 or equivalent) or comparable professional experience
This is a rare opportunity to join one of the UK’s leading transport organisations at a pivotal moment in its development—and to shape the future of integrated public transport in Edinburgh and the wider region.
How to Apply: To apply for this post, please send your tailored CV and covering letter by email, highlighting in the subject heading Human Resources Director. If you would like a confidential, informal discussion about the role, then please contact LHH recruitment.
Closing date for applications midnight Sunday 21 June 2026. Interviews weeks beginning 13 July and 20 July.
Human Resources Director employer: Lothian Buses
The Lothian Group is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to shape the future of public transport in Edinburgh. With a strong commitment to employee development and a collaborative work culture, we empower our team of over 3,000 colleagues to thrive in a dynamic environment that values safety, reliability, and sustainability. Join us at this pivotal moment in our journey and be part of a leading organisation that not only connects communities but also fosters personal and professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Human Resources Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to connections in the transport sector or HR field. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about the role and even a referral. Remember, it’s all about who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research Lothian Group’s values and recent developments. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their mission of shaping public transport in Edinburgh.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! During interviews, share examples of how you've led teams through change. Highlight your collaborative approach and how it’s helped improve culture and performance in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Human Resources Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored specifically for the Human Resources Director role. Highlight your executive-level HR experience and any relevant achievements that align with the job description. We want to see how you can shape our future!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter should tell us why you're the perfect fit for this pivotal role. Share your vision for leading organisational change and how your collaborative leadership style can enhance our culture. Remember, this is your chance to shine!
Showcase Your Expertise:Don’t forget to highlight your deep expertise in industrial relations and employment law. We’re looking for someone who can manage complex matters confidently, so give us examples of how you've done this in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative!
How to prepare for a job interview at Lothian Buses
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of the Lothian Group and its role in public transport. Familiarise yourself with their services, values, and recent developments. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you tailor your responses to align with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a Human Resources Director, your leadership style is crucial. Be prepared to discuss your collaborative, values-led approach and how it has positively impacted organisational culture and performance in your previous roles. Use specific examples to illustrate your points.
✨Prepare for Tough Questions
Expect questions around managing complex industrial relations and employment law issues. Think about past experiences where you successfully navigated these challenges and be ready to share your thought process and outcomes. This will demonstrate your capability to handle high-risk matters.
✨Build Rapport with the Interview Panel
Remember, interviews are a two-way street. Engage with the panel by asking insightful questions about their vision for the future of the organisation. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the company culture aligns with your values.
