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- Tasks: Lead strategic initiatives in People & Culture for Scotland's second-largest NHS workforce.
- Company: Join NHS Lothian, a values-driven organisation at the forefront of healthcare transformation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a vibrant work-life balance in Edinburgh with exceptional cultural and natural assets.
- 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; NHS experience is a plus.
- Other info: Exciting career-defining opportunity with excellent growth potential and innovative projects.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 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
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
Locations
Deputy Director of People & Culture in Edinburgh, Scotland employer: Penna
Contact Detail:
Penna Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Director of People & Culture in Edinburgh, Scotland
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former NHS Lothian employees on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the culture and expectations, plus it shows our genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching NHS Lothian's recent initiatives. We should be ready to discuss how our experience aligns with their transformation goals and how we can contribute to their People & Culture Strategy.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or mentors. This will help us articulate our thoughts clearly and confidently, especially when discussing our leadership experience in complex environments.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, we can tailor our CV and supporting statement to highlight how we fit the role perfectly.
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Director of People & Culture in Edinburgh, Scotland
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 your unique flair 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, we want to know about your leadership style and how you've influenced change in previous roles. Be sure to include anecdotes that demonstrate your ability to lead teams and drive impactful outcomes in complex environments.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us smoothly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our values there. 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 Style
As a senior leader, it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership style during the interview. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams through change, particularly in complex environments. Highlight your ability to influence and inspire others.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making abilities. Think about past experiences where you've navigated difficult situations in HR or people management, and be ready to explain your thought process and outcomes.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the organisation. Ask about the future direction of the People & Culture team or how they measure success in this pivotal role.
