At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the RNLI in delivering exceptional people services and enhancing employee engagement.
- Company: Join the RNLI, a dedicated organisation saving lives at sea for over 200 years.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Inclusive culture with a commitment to safeguarding and diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference by supporting a lifesaving mission while developing your HR skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in HR advice, knowledge of employment legislation, and relevant qualifications.
Salary: £35,853 - £42,181 (dependent on experience)
Contract type: Permanent
Hours: Full-Time
Location description: Hybrid, with at least 2 days per week in Perth or an RNLI location.
Interview location: Initial interview via Teams. Final in Perth.
Interview date: Initial interviews: 14/15th July. Final interviews: 28/29th July.
Closing Date: 08-07-2026
Reference: 21707
About us
Our purpose is simple: to save lives at sea. 24 hours a day, every day, RNLI lifesavers are ready to launch to the rescue.
Based within Scotland, you will report to the Regional People Lead and work closely with the Volunteer Advisor. Understanding the opportunities within your region, and working with the local leadership team and your peers in the wider People Team, you will be responsible for supporting great ‘people’ service and delivery. Whilst most of your work will be based on our valued employees, you will also be expected to support the delivery of voluntary services as required; some of the work naturally overlaps.
Your role:
- To support the Regional People Lead in providing a highly effective people service to the Region, engaging all RNLI people (specifically employees but also supporting volunteers as required) to drive high performance and engagement.
- Ensure all people transactions are timely, accurate and professional, including Pay and Reward, Policy, Sick Absence, Occupational Health and Recruitment.
- Build effective and trusted relationships across the region and ensure all people matters are resolved effectively and speedily to support operational excellence.
- Work with the regional Volunteering Adviser and central team to identify and deliver policy and ways of working changes that drive the professionalism of the people function so that the RNLI is an employer/volunteering organisation of choice.
- Ensure People systems are maintained, and that information is readily available and accurate.
- Project work, with particular focus on talent development.
- Maintain an approach consistent with challenging what we do, how we do it and what we could do better.
- Work closely with centrally located subject matter experts and peers across the wider RNLI, operating as one crew.
- Promote an inclusive and diverse culture across the organisation so that the RNLI is considered to be an employer of choice.
About you:
- Experience of providing diverse advice to managers on HR policy and people management issues.
- Experience working with, and delivering against, fast-paced operational needs with a practical approach and ability to maintain accuracy and attention to detail.
- Good knowledge and practical application of employment legislation.
- Previous experience of updating policies in line with employment legislation updates.
- A relevant degree, CIPD qualification, or equivalent experience.
This role covers Scotland, and you must be able to travel (not extensively). Any business travel will be reimbursed.
In other organisations, this role may also be known as: People Adviser, HR Advisor, Human Resources Advisor, HR Adviser, HR Generalist, HR Assistant.
Safeguarding
The RNLI is committed to safeguarding; protecting a person’s health, wellbeing, and human rights, enabling them to live free from harm, abuse, and neglect. We expect all employees and volunteers to share this commitment and have a zero-tolerance approach. The suitability of all prospective employees and volunteers will be assessed during the recruitment process in line with this commitment. This will include relevant criminal record checks being carried out, dependent on the eligibility of the role.
Diversity at the RNLI
Our staff and volunteers have been saving lives at sea without prejudice for 200 years. We respect and value diversity of background, skills and perspectives within our teams, and consider it essential to help us deliver a world-class lifesaving service. We are an inclusive organisation and welcome applications from everyone. In addition to having the skills needed for the role, we also look for applicants who share our commitment to living our RNLI values (trustworthy, courageous, selfless, and dependable), and helping us work towards Our Vision: To save Every One.
People Advisor - Scotland employer: RNLI
The RNLI is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises the well-being of its employees and volunteers. With a focus on professional development and a commitment to diversity, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact while working in a hybrid environment based in Scotland. Join us in our mission to save lives at sea and be part of a dedicated team that values trust, courage, and selflessness.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land People Advisor - Scotland
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at RNLI!
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re a recent grad or still in uni, tap into your career services and alumni network. Many universities have connections with companies looking for HR talent, so get those leads and apply through our website for a smoother application process.
✨Showcase Your HR Passion
Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at RNLI.
We think you need these skills to ace People Advisor - Scotland
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at RNLI. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to RNLI and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at RNLI. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to RNLI's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at RNLI
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with RNLI.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at RNLI will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact RNLI and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
