Senior Director, Human Resources

Company Overview

Contineum Therapeutics (Nasdaq: CTNM) is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing innovative oral small-molecule treatments for neuroinflammation and immunology indications with substantial unmet medical need. The company is advancing internally created programs, with several candidates already in clinical trials. PIPE-791 is being developed as an LPA1 receptor antagonist for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis and chronic pain. PIPE-307 is a selective M1 receptor inhibitor in development for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis and major depressive disorder.

Role Summary

The Senior Director of Human Resources serves as the most senior HR leader for Contineum Therapeutics. This position combines strategic leadership with direct, hands-on execution across the full HR function, including hiring, compensation, benefits, leave management, compliance, employee relations, performance management, HR systems, employee growth, engagement, and retention. The role also partners with company leadership to shape and deliver people programs that support business goals and strengthen the employee experience.

Work Location

This position is based in a hybrid arrangement from the San Diego office. Relocation support is not offered, and visa sponsorship is unavailable.

Key Responsibilities

• Work closely with the CEO and executive team to design and execute HR strategies and programs aligned with organizational objectives.
• Build, manage, and improve compensation and benefits programs with a focus on competitiveness and fairness, in coordination with external compensation advisors and the CFO.
• Set the talent acquisition approach and resources needed to attract and keep strong talent, while overseeing recruiting activities.
• Lead retention and employee engagement efforts, and recommend enhancements and new initiatives where needed.
• Own the performance management process and support managers in addressing performance concerns.
• Advise, coach, and support executive leaders on people, organizational, and HR matters.
• Partner with leaders on organizational structure and change, and develop programs that encourage employee development.
• Track employee engagement and create HR initiatives that measure, strengthen, and sustain engagement.
• Ensure HR practices and policies remain aligned with local, state, and federal employment laws and regulations.
• Oversee HR systems, including maintenance, reporting, analysis, and system knowledge.
• Handle employee relations matters and conduct investigations when required.
• Manage day-to-day HR operations, including recruiting, hiring, onboarding, policy and procedure updates, benefits administration, leave administration, compliance, and general employee support.
• Work with Accounting and Finance on payroll matters and people-related budgets and expenses.
• Monitor the HR department’s budget and resource use.
• Take on additional duties as needed based on business priorities.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources management or a closely related discipline.
• 8 to 10 years of relevant experience, including 1 to 2 years in an HR leadership position.
• Experience in the life sciences sector is preferred.
• HRCI or SHRM certification is preferred.
• Strong command of core HR functions and employment law compliance.
• Proven ability to lead while staying hands-on and strategically focused.
• Sound business judgment and the ability to explain information clearly to others.
• Excellent skills in communication, organization, and interpersonal interaction, both spoken and written.
• Comfort working collaboratively while also leading initiatives and executing independently.
• Ability to build trust with leaders and employees and maintain a high level of integrity.
• Strong attention to detail, good judgment, adaptability, and initiative.

Benefits

• Competitive overall compensation package in a collaborative environment.
• Salary range for San Diego-based candidates: $215,000 to $230,000 per year.
• 90% of employee benefits paid by the employer.
• Flexible paid time off.
• Expanded holiday time, including a full week off in August and time away during the winter holidays.
• Access to a well-stocked kitchen with snacks and drinks.
• Eligibility for annual bonuses, equity stock options, an Employee Stock Purchase Program, and a 401(k) with employer matching.
• Wellness coverage that includes medical, dental, vision, and long-term disability benefits.

Additional Notes

Final compensation will depend on factors such as overall experience, industry-specific background, education, and other relevant qualifications.