Shaun
Harper

Senior HR Consultant

An image of Shaun Harper in the Edinburgh office wearing a black shirt and grey trousers. He is standing next to the window and holding onto a chair.

WHO I HELP

Private sector SMEs. Third sector organisations. Senior leadership. Line managers.

HOW I HELP

Talent acquisition. Employee relations. Change management. HR strategy. Leadership training. Equity, diversity & inclusion.

SECTORS/SUPPORT

Manufacturing. Science education. Fitness retail.

“PROVIDING CONFIDENCE AND CLARITY.”

Shaun Harper is a Senior HR Consultant based in our Glasgow office. He manages a diverse portfolio of clients across both private and third sector industries, supporting them on a range of strategic and operational HR matters. From employee relations and change management to leadership development, diversity, equity and inclusion, and HR technology implementation, Shaun partners with organisations to ensure their people strategies align with their business objectives.

Working closely with senior leaders, directors, and line managers, Shaun helps clients navigate the full employee lifecycle. He brings a practical and pragmatic approach to people challenges, always focused on delivering results, improving processes, and fostering positive, inclusive cultures.

HELPING BUILD STRONGER PEOPLE PRACTICES

“One of the most satisfying parts of my role is helping clients provide clarity with confidence where there had been confusion or frustration. When someone comes to me with a complex challenge and we work through it together, whether it’s implementing new policies, supporting performance, or managing a difficult situation, it’s incredibly rewarding to know I’ve helped make their day-to-day working life better.

Internally, I thrive on collaboration. Being able to bounce ideas off my colleagues and share different perspectives is where the best solutions come from. I also really enjoy mentoring and knowledge-sharing within the team, seeing others grow and take on more responsibility is always a proud moment.”

EMBRACING INNOVATION

“Innovation in HR is critical. We can’t keep using the same approaches when the workforce and world of work is constantly evolving. I embrace an adaptive, forward-thinking approach. I’m not afraid to challenge outdated processes when something can be improved or simplified. Clients appreciate when you bring clarity and a no-nonsense approach to problem-solving, and that’s something I always aim to deliver.”

FLEXIBLE, TECH-ENABLED, AND ALWAYS PERSONAL

“I’ve worked with clients whose businesses are at different stages of digital maturity. I’ve learned to adapt my approach depending on what’s right for each client. I like to think I have a digital-first mindset, even if I started my HR career back in the days of filing cabinets.

Virtual tools and systems bring so many benefits, whether it’s hosting remote training sessions or streamlining employee data with a better HRIS. But tech alone isn’t enough. Some challenges still call for that hands-on support, sitting down with the client in person and working through the issue together. That human connection is never going away, and rightly so.”

ADDRESSING THE REAL PEOPLE CHALLENGES

“The biggest challenge we see across all industries is the ever-changing talent market. Retention and engagement can often be a big focus, which is why it’s so important for businesses to invest in their people and processes.

A key part of my role is helping organisations build environments where people want to stay and grow. That’s where real success lies, in nurturing talent, building trust, and creating meaningful career paths. Good HR isn’t just about fixing problems, it’s about building the structures and strategies that prevent them from happening in the first place.”

LOOKING AHEAD WITH PURPOSE

“HR is always evolving, which makes it a really exciting space to work in. There’s always something new to learn, new tools to explore, and new ways to show how great people management drives real business results. I’m excited to continue helping organisations connect their people priorities with their performance goals.

Being part of AAB, with its energy, ambition, and culture of collaboration, is extremely motivating. I’m looking forward to what we’ll achieve as we grow, particularly in the people space, and hope to bring more smart, effective, and tailored solutions to clients across even more sectors.”

PEOPLE-FIRST, RESULTS-DRIVEN

“I like to think I strike a balance between being results-oriented and people-focused. I’m pragmatic, a clear communicator, and I know when to take a direct approach that clients value. One of the nicest compliments I’ve received was a client saying the difference in their business before and after working with me was like ‘night and day’, they felt I had a motivational impact on their line managers and gave them real confidence when it came to people leadership.

HR isn’t always glamorous, but when it’s done right, it looks seamless. We’re problem-solvers, coaches, and change agents, and a lot of skill goes into making it look that effortless.”