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 public transport.
- Benefits: Competitive salary package and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Opportunity to influence culture and performance in a dynamic environment.
- 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 100000 - 120000 £ per year.
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.
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 +44 (0) 141 220 6460 or send an email to the above. Closing date for applications midnight Sunday 21 June 2026. Interviews weeks beginning 13 July and 20 July.
Human Resources Director in Livingston employer: Lothian Buses
The Lothian Group is an exceptional employer, offering a competitive six-figure salary and the chance to lead HR initiatives that shape the future of public transport in Edinburgh. With a strong focus on employee engagement and a collaborative work culture, you will have the opportunity to influence organisational change within a large, dynamic team of over 3,000 colleagues. Join us in making a meaningful impact on the community while enjoying professional growth in a supportive environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Human Resources Director in Livingston
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to connections in the transport sector or HR field. Attend industry events or webinars to meet potential employers and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company inside out. Understand their values, recent news, and challenges they face. This will help you tailor your responses and show you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Human Resources Director. Highlight your leadership style and how it can benefit Lothian Group during this transformation.
✨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 in Livingston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored specifically for the Human Resources Director role. Highlight your relevant experience in HR leadership, especially in complex environments, and don’t forget to showcase your achievements in organisational change.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Mention your strategic people leadership skills and how they align with Lothian Group’s vision for integrated public transport.
Showcase Your Leadership Style:In both your CV and cover letter, emphasise your collaborative, values-led leadership style. We want to see how you’ve built trusted relationships at senior levels and how you focus on culture and engagement within teams.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re keen and know how to navigate the process like a pro!
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 operations. Familiarise yourself with their current challenges and successes in public transport, especially regarding integration and organisational change. This will show that you’re genuinely interested and prepared to contribute.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare examples that highlight your collaborative, values-led leadership style. Think about times when you've successfully influenced senior stakeholders or led teams through transformation. Be ready to discuss how you can apply this experience to shape the culture and performance at Lothian Group.
✨Master the Legal Landscape
Brush up on your knowledge of employment law and industrial relations, particularly in a unionised environment. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve navigated complex HR issues in the past and how you would approach similar challenges at Lothian Group.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your strategic thinking and interest in the role. Inquire about the future direction of the organisation, the integration process, and how they envision the HR function supporting these goals. This shows you’re not just looking for a job, but are invested in their mission.
