Director of People and Culture

Smokeball • Chicago, IL

13h • $150,000 - $170,000 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Director of People and Culture reports directly to the US President and owns the company’s people and culture initiatives. The role shapes people strategy to attract, retain, and develop talent while fostering a diverse, inclusive, high-performing culture. It combines strategic planning with hands-on management of day-to-day people operations and supports technical and commercial teams in a scale-up environment.

This is a hybrid role based in Chicago, Illinois, with an expectation to work onsite two to three days per week. The Director will oversee recruitment, onboarding, employee experience, learning and development, performance management, employment-law compliance, and guidance to business leaders, while managing and mentoring the People & Culture team.

Requirements

• At least 7 years of experience in progressive people-focused roles, including at least 3 years in a senior leadership position.
• Strong knowledge of employment law and HR compliance.
• Proven success developing and implementing initiatives.
• Experience working in fast-paced, high-growth environments.
• Exceptional communication, coaching, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to balance strategic thinking with operational execution.
• Proven experience leading organizational strategy and development, employee engagement, talent acquisition, learning and development, performance management, and compensation and benefits.
• Passion for and experience leading DEI initiatives.
• Empathetic, approachable leadership style and ability to build strong relationships and create a positive, supportive workplace.

Nice To Haves

• Experience in technology or legal technology environments.

Responsibilities

• Design and lead people strategies aligned with Smokeball’s vision and purpose.
• Oversee full-cycle recruitment, onboarding, and talent acquisition strategies.
• Champion employee experience, engagement, and retention across departments.
• Implement scalable learning, development, and performance management programs.
• Ensure compliance with employment law and HR best practices in the United States and other relevant jurisdictions.
• Support leaders across the business with expert guidance on people matters.
• Manage and mentor the People & Culture team.
• Lead organizational strategy and development, employee engagement, talent acquisition, learning and development, performance management, and compensation and benefits.
• Lead diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

Benefits

• Competitive salary of $150,000–$170,000 per year.
• 20 vacation days, 3 reboot days, birthday off, volunteer time, and additional time off.
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage.
• 401(k) match.
• Monthly wellness stipend.
• Parental leave.
• Office lunch and snacks.
• Company-branded merchandise.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Education Level: No Education Listed