Brian Millar has been appointed head of HR at the RSPCA. The new role is part of its recent restructure, which brings together all aspects of personnel and training. Millar is a chartered fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development.
Where were you working before, and what were your duties?
I was vice-president of HR for BT Global Solutions before working as a consultant at Quantum HR.
What will be the duties in your new role?
I will be the new head of HR for the combined personnel services, management and inspectorate training division.
What do you hope to achieve in your new role?
I intend to develop a leading-edge people strategy that complements the RSPCA’s objectives.
Which aspects are you most looking forward to?
Forging links with the various stakeholders in the RSPCA and ensuring equity of treatment across all areas.
How do you think the role of HR will change over the next five years?
HR will continue to make the best use of technology, particularly smarter intranet portals.
Who is the ultimate guru?
Dr George Pransky – he has done some marvellous work around healthy psychological functioning.
What is the strangest situation you have been in at work?
Wearing red tights and a Busby suit – I was a young, gullible graduate.
What’s the best thing about HR?
Surprising people by the results you can get from well thought out people policies and practices.
And the worst?
The post-legislation mail shots.
What is the essential tool in your job?
Home access to the RSPCA server on broadband.
What advice would you give to people starting out in HR?
Learn to understand the financial implications of every decision you make.
Who would play you in the film of your life and why?
Al Pacino – just because my wife laughed hilariously when I suggested this.
What’s the worst office party you have ever attended?
Any between 1980 and 1984.
Who would you least like to be stuck in a lift with?
Vic Reeves, because I once had an argument with him at a party.
Millar’s CV
2004 Head of HR, RSPCA
2003 Interim work and consultant, Quantum HR
2000 Vice-president HR, BT Global Solutions
1998 Head of HR, BT Marketing
1980 Graduate entrant to BT
