Sr. Manager, People Operations

OLIPOP•Oakland, CA

3d•Remote

About The Position

We’re looking for a Senior Manager of People Operations to scale the operational backbone of our People function as we prepare for our next phase of growth. This is a senior operating role with a strong builder mindset, responsible for evolving People Operations from daily execution to a mature, scalable function.. The Senior Manager of People Operations is responsible for running the day-to-day operations of the People function, ensuring systems, processes, and programs are executed accurately and efficiently as the company scales. This role partners closely with the People Team and cross-functional leaders to deliver operational excellence across payroll, benefits, compliance, and HR systems while supporting a strong employee experience. Success in this role means building reliable operations, maintaining high standards for accuracy and compliance, and helping the People function scale with clarity and confidence.

Requirements

7-10 years of progressive People Operations experience
2-4 years of experience managing People Operations teams
Demonstrated expertise in payroll operations, compliance requirements, and operational controls, with hands‑on experience preparing for or supporting audits.
Experience scaling People Operations in a growing company (e.g., moving from early‑stage to more mature operations) with increasing complexity across payroll, compliance, and systems.

Nice To Haves

Experience implementing an HRIS (ADP experience strongly preferred)
Experience partnering closely with Finance and Legal teams
Strong understanding of operational controls, compliance requirements, and risk management

Responsibilities

People Operations & Compliance
Oversee core People Operations including payroll, benefits administration, and employee lifecycle events.
Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local regulations while maintaining strong operational controls. Establish strong governance, controls, and audit‑ready processes that support a maturing organization and reduce operational risk as we scale.
Lead key audits (401k, payroll, benefits, compliance) and maintain accurate documentation and reporting.
Own and maintain the employee handbook, policies, and People Operations documentation, ensuring accuracy, compliance, and clarity as the company evolves.
HRIS & Systems
Lead the implementation, optimization, and ongoing evolution of HRIS (ADP), leveraging automation, workflows, and reporting to improve accuracy, speed, and scalability.
Ensure employee data is accurate, reliable, and supports organizational reporting needs.
Design and implement scalable, repeatable People Operations workflows that move the function from ad‑hoc execution to durable, system‑driven operations.
Identify opportunities to improve workflows and reduce manual processes through system capabilities.
Benefits & Open Enrollment
Oversee benefits administration and vendor relationships.
Lead open enrollment cycles and ensure a smooth and well-supported employee experience.
Partner with leadership to maintain strong benefits programs while balancing operational rigor, employee experience, and cost discipline.
Team Leadership & Management
Lead and develop a high‑performing People Operations team by setting clear expectations, coaching for skill development, and maintaining high standards for execution and accountability.
Set high standards for operational rigor, execution, and accountability.
Support the growth and development of team members through coaching and feedback.
Cross-Functional Partnership
Collaborate closely with Finance, Legal, and other stakeholders to ensure People Operations processes run smoothly.
Surface operational risks early and help drive thoughtful solutions as the company grows.