Manager, People Operations

About the Organization

The San Francisco 49ers are focused on creating memorable experiences that inspire connection, whether through the team, community efforts, or work happening behind the scenes. The organization values people who bring energy, precision, sound judgment, and a collaborative mindset to a fast-moving environment. Key strengths include flexibility, honesty, teamwork, clear communication, and a commitment to ongoing improvement.

Those who want to contribute to a supportive environment, grow professionally, and help create a meaningful impact will find this opportunity appealing.

Role Overview

The People Operations Manager is responsible for running and improving core employee-facing programs. This position works closely with leaders and cross-functional partners to oversee benefits, wellness, compensation, and compliance processes so that programs remain effective, competitive, and aligned with business needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day management and ongoing refinement of employee benefits, including medical coverage, voluntary plans, COBRA, PTO, and company holidays, while acting as the main contact for brokers and external providers.
• Plan and execute employee wellness initiatives, including coordinating vendors, managing budgets, and handling on-site program delivery.
• Check, audit, and process benefits enrollments and monthly invoices with accuracy, speed, and compliance in mind.
• Manage leave administration by tracking documentation, coordinating communication, and supporting a smooth, compliant employee experience.
• Lead the ADA interactive process by working with employees and managers to arrange reasonable accommodations promptly and appropriately.
• Coordinate with Risk Management on workers’ compensation matters, ensuring documentation, communication, and compliance requirements are handled correctly.
• Maintain compliance with federal, state, and local laws, including reporting and filing obligations such as Form 5500, EEO-1, California Pay Data Reporting, and ACA submissions.
• Support communication of the company’s compensation philosophy and help shape programs that attract, retain, and motivate employees.
• Participate in merit and compensation review cycles, offering guidance on pay decisions, internal equity, and market positioning alongside leadership and Finance.
• Work with Finance to administer compensation plans.
• Maintain compensation frameworks and systems, including job architecture, salary ranges, and pay bands.
• Benchmark and assess benefits and pay programs using survey data and industry research to improve competitiveness and effectiveness.
• Manage vendor partnerships and help improve HR tools, including HRIS, benefits platforms, and compliance tracking systems.
• Create and review HR reports and metrics covering compensation, benefits, compliance, and workforce data to support informed decision-making.
• Keep employee information accurate in HRIS and timekeeping systems.
• Use HR systems and tools to improve efficiency, data quality, and process automation.
• Stay current on HR best practices and employment laws, proactively spotting compliance risks and improvement opportunities.
• Provide operational support for additional People Operations initiatives as needed.
• Perform other assigned duties as required.

Required Skills and Competencies

• Ability to listen carefully and respond with empathy, using both verbal and nonverbal communication effectively.
• Strong analytical thinking and practical problem-solving ability.
• Capacity to earn trust through responsive, dependable, employee-focused support.
• Skill in building strong relationships across all organizational levels through authentic and inclusive communication.
• Excellent organization and the ability to manage several priorities in a fast-paced setting.
• Strong time management and prioritization skills with attention to detail.
• Clear and professional written and verbal communication with good judgment.

Experience and Education

• 5 to 7 years of relevant experience, or an equivalent mix of education and work background.
• Professional HR certification such as PHR or SHRM-CP is preferred.
• Working knowledge of HR information systems and computer-based HR applications.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, and Word, including complex spreadsheets, presentations, narrative reporting, and statistical analysis.
• Knowledge of current federal and California labor and employee benefits laws is required.
• Direct experience with benefits administration, compensation practices, and leave programs is required.

Physical Requirements and Work Conditions

This role is primarily office-based, with most time spent seated. The work may occasionally involve exposure to outdoor weather conditions. The employee will frequently sit, use hands or fingers, handle objects or controls, and reach with arms. Speaking and hearing are regular parts of the job. Occasionally, the role may require standing, walking, or lifting and moving items up to 25 pounds. Close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus are needed.

The position may require extended hours and weekend work. Travel is expected to be 0%.