People Operations Lead

About Bioptimus

Bioptimus is an innovative startup developing the first universal AI foundation model for biology, aiming to accelerate breakthroughs in biomedicine. Founded in October 2023 and headquartered in Paris, we are backed by over $75 million in funding and a world-class team of scientists and engineers advancing the frontiers of AI and life sciences.

Role Overview

We are looking for an experienced People Operations Lead to manage our People function on a day-to-day basis, reporting to the COO. The position is initially part-time, approximately three days per week, with flexibility based on business needs and workload peaks. This role encompasses hands-on administrative responsibilities, strategic HR initiatives, and sensitive employee relations within a growing hybrid startup environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all employee administration including contracting, payroll coordination, and maintaining employee records.
• Serve as the primary approachable contact for all staff regarding People-related inquiries and issues.
• Design and oversee core HR initiatives such as performance appraisals, onboarding and probation processes, company policies, employee surveys, salary benchmarks, and compensation strategies tailored to a hybrid startup.
• Lead challenging people matters by coaching managers through underperformance, managing exit and termination procedures, and collaborating with Legal when necessary.
• Identify and develop emerging managers, fostering their leadership skills over time.

Work Pattern & Development

• The role is primarily part-time at around three days weekly, with occasional adjustments up to four days during busy periods like hiring and reviews.
• There is potential for growth both in working days and leadership responsibilities as the company expands, ideally suited for someone building a portfolio career who is invested in Bioptimus’s mission.

Candidate Profile

• Proven, end-to-end experience managing comprehensive People operations independently.
• Demonstrated capability handling difficult situations such as underperformance and employee exits.
• Experience in startup or scale-up environments familiar with hybrid work and lean resources.
• Ability to introduce innovative and practical HR processes rather than conventional corporate methods.
• Strong communication skills, especially handling sensitive and difficult conversations with tact and care.
• Known for being approachable and trustworthy, a confident resource for employees and management.
• Competent in balancing detailed operational tasks with strategic planning.
• Prior responsibility for managing at least one complete compensation and review cycle.
• Motivated to expand managerial coaching capabilities and committed to the company’s people success, even within a part-time capacity.

Why Join Bioptimus?

• Contribute meaningfully to cutting-edge AI and biology research through your People leadership.
• Enjoy a flexible, high-ownership role designed for work-life balance and impact.
• Opportunity for personal growth and advancement to a full-time leadership role as the company scales.
• Engage with a modern, efficient People function utilizing best-in-class tools and practices.
• Work within a collaborative, inclusive, and ambitious team culture that promotes creativity and ownership.

Diversity & Equal Opportunity

We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace that welcomes diverse perspectives and experiences. Employment decisions are made without discrimination based on race, religion, origin, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, or disability, ensuring fair hiring practices and equal opportunities for qualified candidates.