Executive Director, People Operations

Guidehouse•Tysons, VA

6d•$255,000 - $435,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The People Operations Lead will serve as the operational leader of the People organization, responsible for translating enterprise people strategy into executable programs that drive organizational effectiveness, scalability, and business impact. Partnering closely with the Chief People Officer and People leadership team, this role will drive the execution of the firm’s people strategy, optimize service delivery, and modernize People operations through data, technology, and transformation initiatives. Finally, this role will enable the People organization to operate with rigor and consistency while positioning the firm for growth, transformation, and IPO readiness.

Requirements

15+ years of experience in HR, People Strategy, or organizational leadership roles
Proven experience leading large-scale People operations, transformation, or enterprise HR functions
Strong expertise in organizational design, workforce strategy, and enterprise transformation
Demonstrated ability to lead complex, global teams and operating environments
Deep experience in process optimization, service delivery models, and HR operating model design
Strong executive presence with the ability to influence C-suite and Board-level stakeholders
Experience in workforce analytics, data-driven decision-making, and HR dashboard development
Expertise in HR technology, including HRIS platforms, automation, and AI-enabled solutions
Strong communication, stakeholder management, and change management leadership capabilities
Understanding of the business drivers behind workforce and organizational strategy

Nice To Haves

Experience in professional services, consulting, or similar high-growth environments
Experience supporting IPO readiness, large-scale transformation, or private equity-backed organizations
Background supporting remote and hybrid workforce models at scale
Advanced certifications (e.g., SHRM-SCP, SPHR, CCMP, PMP)
Experience aligning People operations with enterprise transformation and value creation initiatives

Responsibilities

Lead the Execution of the People Strategy: Operationalize the People Strategy set by the CPO, translating strategic priorities into actionable programs and initiatives.
Partner with People leadership and business leaders to align talent strategy with growth objectives and financial goals.
Confirm alignment between People, Corporate Strategy, and VCP initiatives to drive enterprise impact.
Lead execution of IPO-related People initiatives, including workforce strategy, governance, and readiness activities.
Serve as a strategic advisor to the CPO and executive leadership on organizational effectiveness and workforce strategy.
Drive Operational Excellence Across the People Organization: Lead the day-to-day operations of the People organization, driving efficiency, consistency, and scalability across segments and geographies.
Design and optimize HR operating models, service delivery frameworks, and core People processes.
Lead workforce change initiatives, including restructuring, transformation, and M&A integration support.
Drive effective communication and execution of change across the enterprise, supporting leaders through complex transitions.
Build and lead a high-performing People Operations function with strong program management, execution rigor, and accountability.
Support executive leadership and Board readiness through talent reporting, workforce insights, and leadership transition support.
Transform People Operations Through Data, Technology & Innovation: Partner with the CIO and technology teams to implement and optimize HR technology platforms, including HRIS and workforce analytics tools.
Drive the integration of AI, automation, and digital solutions to modernize HR processes and improve service delivery.
Lead workforce analytics and reporting, developing dashboards and insights to inform decision-making (e.g., QBRs, MBRs).
Use data to identify workforce trends, risks, and opportunities, enabling proactive management of talent and organizational health.
Drive continuous improvement across People processes through technology, data, and operational innovation.
Establish scalable infrastructure and processes to support a growing, global, and increasingly complex organization.

Benefits

Medical, Rx, Dental & Vision Insurance
Personal and Family Sick Time & Company Paid Holidays
Position may be eligible for a discretionary variable incentive bonus
Parental Leave and Adoption Assistance
401(k) Retirement Plan
Basic Life & Supplemental Life
Health Savings Account, Dental/Vision & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
Student Loan PayDown
Tuition Reimbursement, Personal Development & Learning Opportunities
Skills Development & Certifications
Employee Referral Program
Corporate Sponsored Events & Community Outreach
Emergency Back-Up Childcare Program
Mobility Stipend