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- Tasks: Lead HR casework and provide expert resourcing advice to enhance workforce planning.
- Company: Join the dynamic SAAS People and Performance Team making a real difference.
- Benefits: Flexible working options, supportive environment, and diverse workforce.
- Why this job: Shape strategic workforce decisions and impact employee engagement positively.
- Qualifications: CIPD qualification or degree in Human Resources preferred.
- Other info: Exciting career growth opportunities in a fast-paced environment.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Are you experienced in HR and Resourcing and ready to take the next step in your career? This role is based in the SAAS People and Performance Team, which comprises eight members of staff (including this post) and delivers people services to around 250 SAAS colleagues. We are a dynamic team providing both operational and advisory services across a wide range of people‑related areas, working closely with colleagues to make a real difference in Human Resources, Resourcing and Workforce Planning, Organisational Learning and Development, Employee Engagement, and Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.
The People and Performance Consultant role is a new and exciting post. You will be responsible for managing HR casework and resourcing activity, supporting the SAAS Executive Team, Senior Management Team, line managers, and employees as part of the People and Performance service and the delivery of outcomes from the SAAS People Strategy (2025–30). You will provide expert HR and resourcing advice across recruitment, workforce planning, HR casework, and policy, reporting to the Senior People and Performance Consultant. This is a fast‑paced, high‑impact role focused on shaping strategic workforce decisions across SAAS, requiring sound judgement, professionalism, and the ability to balance operational delivery with strategic priorities.
Responsibilities
- Lead on and provide expert data‑driven resourcing advice and support, using workforce data, to the Chief Executive and ET, line managers and employees on all resourcing‑related matters, including recruitment, workforce planning, succession planning and organisational restructuring.
- Manage HR casework, including complex issues and dismissals, by advising line managers on HR policy, risk, and options, while fostering effective relationships with trade union partners.
- Provide expert HR advice, support and coaching to line managers and employees on complex issues (informal and formal) including performance management, sick absence, discipline and grievances – collaborating with Scottish Government HR, Legal and Scottish Government Delivery Bodies.
- Provide professional HR advice and support to managers and employees during organisational change processes. This includes advising on policy, supporting consultation with staff and trade union partners, assessing people impacts, and ensuring that change proposals, communications and implementation plans are fair, legally compliant and aligned with SAAS workforce needs.
- Undertake the SAAS Systems Business Manager (SBM) role on Oracle HR by overseeing position control, governance, and change management, aligning people to professions and leading the organisational structure changes.
- Support the drafting of guidance, reports, and communications for people initiatives by researching, collaborating with experts, and analysing and interpreting data to inform recommendations.
- Lead and co‑ordinate activities and initiatives identified in the annual SAAS People Plan, working across topic areas such as Workforce Planning and Continuous Improvement and Performance Management.
- Collaborate with colleagues in Scottish Government HR Shared Services and other Scottish Government Delivery Bodies to share best practice.
Qualifications
You must hold a CIPD qualification at Associate level or above, or be currently working towards this. We will also consider applicants with a degree‑level qualification in Human Resources.
Success Profile
Success profiles are specific to each job and they include the mix of skills, experience and behaviours candidates will be assessed on.
Technical/Professional Skills
- Understanding key HR policies and processes – Working.
Experience
- Proven track record of working in an HR casework and Recruitment/Resourcing environment.
Behaviours
- Communication and influencing – Level 3.
- Making effective decisions - Level 3.
- Working together - Level 3.
How To Apply
Apply online, providing a CV and Supporting Statement (of no more than 1000 words) which provides evidence of how you meet the skills, experience and behaviours listed in the Success Profile above. Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools can be used to support your application, but all statements and examples provided must be truthful, factually accurate and taken directly from your own experience. Where plagiarism has been identified (presenting the ideas and experiences of others, or generated by artificial intelligence, and presented as your own) applications will be withdrawn and internal candidates may be subject to disciplinary action.
If invited for further assessment, this will consist of an interview and presentation. Assessments are scheduled mid-May, however this may be subject to change.
Recruitment Principles
As a government organisation, we adhere to the Civil Service Commission Recruitment Principles and we investigate any complaints received in relation to recruitment cases.
About Us
The Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) is an Executive Agency of the Scottish Government responsible for providing information, support, assessment and funding to Scottish Students undertaking a course of Higher Education (HE) within the UK. More information on SAAS can be found on our website.
SAAS administer budgets of around £1.4 billion each year, making payments to both higher education institutions and over 190,000 students a year. We are committed to recruiting a diverse workforce that is representative of the clients we serve. Our staff are part of the UK Civil Service, working for Ministers and senior stakeholders to deliver vital public services which improve the lives of the people of Scotland. We offer a supportive and inclusive working environment along with a wide range of employee benefits.
Working pattern
Our standard hours are 35 hours per week and we offer a range of flexible working options depending on the needs of the role. SAAS have a hybrid working arrangement with colleagues expected to attend the office (Saughton House, Edinburgh) a minimum of 6 days per month. SAAS have separate Public and Privilege holiday arrangements and are fully closed between Christmas and New Year.
Security checks
Successful candidates must complete the Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS), before they can be appointed. BPSS is comprised of four main pre‑employment checks – Identity, Right to work, Employment History and a Criminal Record check (unspent convictions).
Equality statement
We are committed to equality and inclusion and we aim to recruit a diverse workforce that reflects the population of our nation.
Further information
Find out more about our organisation, what we offer staff members and how to apply on our Careers Website. Apply before 23:59 on 26th April 2026.
People and Performance Consultant employer: THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT
Contact Detail:
THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land People and Performance Consultant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in HR and resourcing, and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company culture and values. This will help you tailor your responses and show how you can contribute to their People and Performance team. Plus, it’ll make you feel more confident when discussing your experience!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your interview skills with a friend or mentor. Get comfortable talking about your HR casework experience and how you've handled complex issues. The more you practice, the more natural it will feel when it’s your turn in the hot seat.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our awesome team at SAAS.
We think you need these skills to ace People and Performance Consultant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the People and Performance Consultant role. Highlight your HR experience, especially in casework and resourcing, and don’t forget to showcase any relevant qualifications like your CIPD.
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Use it to provide specific examples of how you meet the skills and behaviours outlined in the Success Profile. Keep it concise and focused, sticking to the 1000-word limit.
Be Honest and Authentic: While AI tools can help, make sure everything you submit is genuinely your own work. We value authenticity, so share your real experiences and insights rather than relying on generated content.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered for this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at THE SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT
✨Know Your HR Stuff
Make sure you brush up on key HR policies and processes relevant to the role. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in HR casework, recruitment, and workforce planning. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also show that you're genuinely interested in the field.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that demonstrate your experience in HR casework and resourcing. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your responses. This will help you articulate your achievements clearly and effectively.
✨Understand the SAAS People Strategy
Take some time to research the SAAS People Strategy (2025–30). Understanding its goals and how they align with the role will allow you to discuss how you can contribute to these objectives during the interview. It shows that you're proactive and aligned with the organisation's vision.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect scenario-based questions that assess your judgement and decision-making skills. Think about potential HR challenges you might face in this role and how you would handle them. Practising these scenarios will help you respond thoughtfully and demonstrate your problem-solving abilities.