Head of People Operations

About The Role

The Patrick J. McGovern Foundation is a $1.5 billion philanthropic organization committed to leveraging artificial intelligence, data science, and public interest. This senior position ensures that the team advancing the foundation's mission is fully supported and developed to perform at their best throughout their careers.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead employee relations by being a primary contact for employee inquiries and policy guidance, managing performance and conduct issues independently, documenting all proceedings precisely, and escalating complex matters appropriately.
• Develop and implement a comprehensive manager coaching curriculum, assisting managers with performance issues, conflict resolution, and team dynamics, while continuously improving management tools to foster autonomy.
• Oversee full-cycle recruiting for technical and non-leadership roles, managing applicant tracking systems, designing effective interview frameworks aligned with organizational competencies, and supporting senior-level hiring.
• Manage end-to-end performance review cycles, including system deployment, communication, calibration sessions, and quality assurance, offering support to managers in creating objective performance evaluations.
• Create and maintain an annual learning and development calendar, design onboarding programs to expedite new hire integration, and coordinate with external facilitators and vendors.
• Handle day-to-day HR operations such as new hire onboarding, offboarding, employment verification, benefits administration in partnership with the PEO, compliance with multi-state employment laws, record keeping, and HRIS system management.

Qualifications and Experience

• At least 10 years of experience in human resources, with a minimum of 7 years focusing on employee relations, managerial development, or talent management; technical recruiting experience is essential; management experience is preferred.
• Proven ability to coach managers effectively through performance and behavioral challenges.
• Strong expertise across HR functions including talent development, performance evaluations, comprehensive recruitment, compensation, benefits, and employment law compliance.
• Experience designing impactful learning programs that promote behavioral change and delivering coaching and facilitation for managers at various levels.
• Practical experience using Google Workspace, project management tools, performance platforms, applicant tracking systems, and recruitment software; familiarity with AI tools in HR and ability to evaluate and advise on their use.
• Hands-on knowledge of HRIS platforms, benefits management, and multi-state compliance for remote teams.
• Possession of a bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related areas; HR certification is highly desirable.

Skills and Competencies

• Exceptional communication and influencing abilities tailored for diverse audiences including skeptical managers and senior leadership.
• Sound judgment with clear understanding of decision boundaries and analytical approach to data-driven insights.
• Strong execution skills to transform ambiguous initiatives into structured, trackable programs with reliable outcomes.
• Balanced approach prioritizing consistent processes while remaining empathetic to individual circumstances.
• Commitment to equity demonstrated by making hiring, development, or performance decisions that improve fairness and outcomes.
• Fluency in applying AI tools within HR workflows, understanding their benefits and limitations.
• Adaptability to start-up-like environments requiring both strategic and operational attention.
• Effectiveness in remote work settings, capable of building meaningful connections without physical proximity and maintaining proactive communication.

Additional Information

• Applicants must be authorized to work for any employer in the United States; no visa sponsorship is available.
• The salary range is $130,000 to $150,000 annually, with starting salaries typically in the lower half, adjustable based on experience.
• Benefits include foundation-paid comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage including family planning, employer-paid life and disability insurance, 401(k) with generous matching, paid time off along with 11 national holidays and winter break, parental leave up to six months, remote work stipend, all-staff summit, wellness programs, learning reimbursements, and philanthropic gift matching opportunities.
• The organization uses AI tools in recruitment to assist but not replace human decisions.
• The foundation is dedicated to equitable compensation and accessibility in its hiring process, providing accommodations upon request for interview participation.