Head of people USA

Big Mamma•Palm Beach, FL

14d

About The Position

The Head of People – USA is responsible for setting up and leading the HR function for Big Mamma in the United States. The role covers all People topics for the US market: opening strategy, workforce planning, recruitment, HR operations, compliance, payroll coordination, performance management, employee relations, engagement, and culture. The position ensures HR processes are compliant, structured, efficient, and aligned with global standards while adapted to US requirements.

Requirements

10+ years HR experience in the US, ideally in multi-unit hospitality or F&B.
Proven experience with new openings, workforce planning, and operational ramp-up.
Strong understanding of US employment law, including multi-state compliance.
Hands-on experience building HR processes, policies, onboarding, and payroll foundations.
Solid background in employee relations, investigations, and performance management.
Self-starter, able to operate with autonomy and structure work effectively.
Strong organisation, composure under pressure, and action-oriented approach.

Nice To Haves

Preferred US HR certifications: SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, SPHR.

Responsibilities

Build HR foundations for US openings (processes, tools, compliance, documentation).
Define pre-opening staffing plans and monitor progress with Operations.
Conduct market and compensation research.
Coordinate pre-opening onboarding and cultural integration.
Ensure full compliance with federal, state, and local employment regulations.
Implement recruitment processes for management and hourly positions.
Build partnerships with culinary schools, hospitality associations, and networks.
Manage candidate pipeline and hiring coordination.
Ensure compliant recruitment documentation and employment contracts.
Align tools and reporting with global TA teams.
Oversee onboarding, personnel files, and HRIS data accuracy.
Coordinate payroll with external US providers.
Support compensation and benefits processes.
Ensure compliance with all regulatory requirements (I-9, wage & hour, sick leave, etc.).
Maintain US HR policies, procedures, and employee handbook.
Lead cultural onboarding for US teams.
Support internal mobility and development pathways.
Implement engagement surveys and follow-up actions.
Track HR KPIs (turnover, retention, engagement indicators).
Serve as the HR partner for US Operations leadership.
Manage employee relations matters, investigations, and disciplinary actions.
Support managers with performance management and coaching.
Ensure consistent application of HR policies across sites.