Head of People & Culture

turbalance GmbH • San Francisco, CA

21h • Hybrid

About The Position

To build and lead our team during our next phase of growth, we are looking for an experienced Head of People & Culture to join us. In this strategic role, you will partner closely with leadership to design the structures, processes, and culture that enable high performance within a cutting-edge AI infrastructure company.

Requirements

• At least 10 years of experience in HR, with several years building global People functions in startups or high-growth environments.
• Expertise in either U.S. or German employment and labor law (Arbeitsrecht), with strong working knowledge of the other, as well as a solid understanding of US & German labor law and global employment structures.
• Proven experience building scalable HR frameworks, including compensation structures, Skill matrix and performance management processes.
• Understanding of hiring and supporting international and distributed teams across on-site, hybrid, and remote environments.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to build trust across all levels of the organization.
• Strong strategic thinking combined with a hands-on, pragmatic execution mindset.
• Highly resourceful self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced, evolving startup environment.
• Experience with HRIS systems, including the ability to leverage HR data and analytics to inform strategic decision-making.
• Fluent English as this is our working language with an international team

Nice To Haves

• German (C1 or above)
• Familiarity with implementing Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) initiatives that foster an inclusive and high-performing workplace.
• Experience working with highly technical teams (e.g., engineering, AI, or deep-tech environments).

Responsibilities

• Act as a strategic partner to leadership on all People-related matters, ensuring scalable HR structures and processes that evolve in line with our company’s long-term vision.
• Design and implement the global People strategy, including organizational design, performance management, and talent development practices.
• Develop and oversee a scalable compensation strategy, including salary bands, leveling frameworks, and employee benefits structures.
• Ensure compliance with both US and German labor laws, including employment regulations, employee benefits, and leave programs.
• Oversee and continuously improve People operations, including HRIS systems inclduing employee lifecycle processes, documentation, and internal policies.
• Use People data and analytics to provide actionable insights that support leadership decision-making.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation with a performance-based incentive
• Subsidized Deutschlandticket
• Access to a discount portal
• Flexible hours with hybrid and remote-friendly options
• Flat hierarchies and rapid decision-making mean ideas ship quickly
• Work with a diverse, international team across Germany and the USA
• Well-stocked office near the Heidelberg Hauptbahnhof, available on a hybrid basis or as a place to connect during our quarterly team workshops
• Your choice of high-quality hardware and equipment
• Relocation support: We’ll help make your move to join us as smooth as possible

What This Job Offers

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