Director of Talent Acquisition & People Operations (all genders)

The opportunity

We are seeking a dynamic and strategic Director of Talent Acquisition & People Operations to lead our efforts in attracting top talent and optimizing people-related processes across the organization. This role combines forward-thinking leadership in talent acquisition with operational excellence, leveraging AI and automation to scale our impact. A key focus will also be on project managing key People initiatives and supporting smooth post-merger integration (PMI) of acquired teams.

Your responsibilities

Talent Acquisition Leadership

• Develop and execute a scalable, data-driven talent acquisition strategy aligned with business goals
• Lead, mentor, and grow a high-performing talent acquisition team
• Champion employer branding efforts to attract world-class talent
• Build strong partnerships with business leaders and hiring managers to proactively support workforce planning

People Operations Leadership

• Oversee and continuously improve people operations processes, including onboarding, employee lifecycle management, and compliance
• Ensure a seamless and high-quality employee experience across systems and processes
• Leverage data analytics and AI tools to drive automation, insights, and operational efficiency

AI and Technology Enablement

• Identify and implement AI-driven tools to streamline recruitment and HR operations
• Stay ahead of emerging HR tech trends and advise on innovative ways to enhance talent and people practices
• Partner with IT and Data teams to ensure secure, compliant, and impactful deployment of digital tools

Project Management & Change Leadership

• Drive cross-functional People projects from concept to execution, ensuring timelines, resources, and outcomes are met
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to support large-scale transformation initiatives
• Implement and manage a clear project governance model and reporting structure for all People programs

What you need to succeed

• 8+ years of progressive experience in HR, Talent Acquisition, and People Operations, with at least 4 years in a leadership role
• Proven experience managing large-scale projects, preferably in tech-enabled or fast-scaling environments
• Track record in in managing or developing Compensation & Benefits programs, including benchmarking, salary reviews, and benefits strategy
• Strong knowledge of German labor law and payroll processes; familiarity with Dutch, French, or Spanish regulations is a plus
• Excellent communication skills in English; German is a strong plus
• A plus: Experience managing acquisitions and merger activities & collaborating with works councils
• Tech-savvy with hands-on experience using modern HRIS platforms, automation tools, and AI-based solutions to enhance efficiency
• Curious and proactive mindset with a drive to innovate and continuously improve
• Collaborative, empathetic, and solution-oriented leadership style

Our offer to you

• Free Urban Sports Club L Pro Membership + Friends and Family Discount: Stay active with free membership, plus discounts for friends and family.
• Flexible Work Model: Enjoy a hybrid work setup, balancing on-site and remote work options to fit your lifestyle.
• Extended Remote Work Options: Work up to 120 days remotely within the EU, the UK, and Switzerland, including 30 days outside the EU. You’ll also have the option to desk-swap at our other European offices.
• WorkOUT Life Balance: Take advantage of 30 days of paid vacation annually, plus two additional days for volunteering, flexible working hours, and complimentary access to our mental health provider Open Up.
• Personal Development: Receive an annual budget of €1,000 for professional growth, with regular internal training sessions and weekly German and English language classes.
• Engaging Team Culture: Participate in regular team and company events along with wellness initiatives that help you stay productive, healthy, and engaged in a hybrid work environment.

Urban Sports Club is committed to providing a friendly, safe, and welcoming environment for everyone who applies for a position or already works with us, regardless of their sports preferences, gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, age, or religion (or lack thereof).