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- Tasks: Lead strategic initiatives in People & Culture for Scotland's second-largest NHS workforce.
- Company: NHS Lothian, a key player in Scotland's healthcare transformation.
- Benefits: Work-life balance, vibrant communities, and opportunities for professional growth.
- 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 to drive change in a values-driven organisation.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ 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.
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.
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.
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
To learn more about us, the role and how to apply please visit our website.
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: Penna
Contact Detail:
Penna 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 people in your field, especially those already working at NHS Lothian. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching NHS Lothian's current initiatives. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role but also passionate about the organisation’s mission and values.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your responses to common interview questions, but keep it natural. We want to see your personality shine through, so don’t be afraid to let your passion for People & Culture show!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need to tailor your CV and supporting statement perfectly.
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 and skills that align with the job description. We want to see how you can bring value 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 specific examples of your achievements in people and culture, and how they relate to the transformation we’re aiming for at NHS Lothian.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: As a senior leader, it's important to convey your leadership style in your application. We’re looking for someone who can inspire and lead teams effectively, so don’t hesitate to share your approach and any successful initiatives you've led in the past.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and allows you to easily track your progress. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Penna
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you thoroughly understand NHS Lothian's People & Culture Strategy and the current challenges facing the organisation. Familiarise yourself with recent changes in HR practices within the NHS and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples that highlight your senior leadership experience, particularly in complex environments. Think about specific instances where you've successfully led change or improved workforce outcomes, and be ready to share these stories during the interview.
✨Emphasise People-Centred Approaches
Since this role is all about delivering high-quality, person-centred care, be prepared to discuss how you've implemented people-focused policies in your previous roles. Share your vision for fostering a positive workplace culture and how you would approach employee relations.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions that demonstrate your interest in the role and the organisation. Inquire about the future direction of NHS Lothian’s People & Culture initiatives and how you can contribute to their transformational change programme.
