The opportunity
We are seeking a dynamic and strategic Director of Talent Acquisition & People Operations to lead our efforts in attracting top talent and optimizing people-related processes across the organization. This role combines forward-thinking leadership in talent acquisition with operational excellence, leveraging AI and automation to scale our impact. A key focus will also be on project managing key People initiatives and supporting smooth post-merger integration (PMI) of acquired teams.
Your responsibilities
Talent Acquisition Leadership
- Develop and execute a scalable, data-driven talent acquisition strategy aligned with business goals
- Lead, mentor, and grow a high-performing talent acquisition team
- Champion employer branding efforts to attract world-class talent
- Build strong partnerships with business leaders and hiring managers to proactively support workforce planning
People Operations Leadership
- Oversee and continuously improve people operations processes, including onboarding, employee lifecycle management, and compliance
- Ensure a seamless and high-quality employee experience across systems and processes
- Leverage data analytics and AI tools to drive automation, insights, and operational efficiency
AI and Technology Enablement
- Identify and implement AI-driven tools to streamline recruitment and HR operations
- Stay ahead of emerging HR tech trends and advise on innovative ways to enhance talent and people practices
- Partner with IT and Data teams to ensure secure, compliant, and impactful deployment of digital tools
Project Management & Change Leadership
- Drive cross-functional People projects from concept to execution, ensuring timelines, resources, and outcomes are met
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders to support large-scale transformation initiatives
- Implement and manage a clear project governance model and reporting structure for all People programs
What you need to succeed
- 8+ years of progressive experience in HR, Talent Acquisition, and People Operations, with at least 4 years in a leadership role
- Proven experience managing large-scale projects, preferably in tech-enabled or fast-scaling environments
- Track record in in managing or developing Compensation & Benefits programs, including benchmarking, salary reviews, and benefits strategy
- Strong knowledge of German labor law and payroll processes; familiarity with Dutch, French, or Spanish regulations is a plus
- Excellent communication skills in English; German is a strong plus
- A plus: Experience managing acquisitions and merger activities & collaborating with works councils
- Tech-savvy with hands-on experience using modern HRIS platforms, automation tools, and AI-based solutions to enhance efficiency
- Curious and proactive mindset with a drive to innovate and continuously improve
- Collaborative, empathetic, and solution-oriented leadership style
Our offer to you
- Free Urban Sports Club L Pro Membership + Friends and Family Discount: Stay active with free membership, plus discounts for friends and family.
- Flexible Work Model: Enjoy a hybrid work setup, balancing on-site and remote work options to fit your lifestyle.
- Extended Remote Work Options: Work up to 120 days remotely within the EU, the UK, and Switzerland, including 30 days outside the EU. You'll also have the option to desk-swap at our other European offices.
- WorkOUT Life Balance: Take advantage of 30 days of paid vacation annually, plus two additional days for volunteering, flexible working hours, and complimentary access to our mental health provider Open Up.
- Personal Development: Receive an annual budget of €1,000 for professional growth, with regular internal training sessions and weekly German and English language classes.
- Engaging Team Culture: Participate in regular team and company events along with wellness initiatives that help you stay productive, healthy, and engaged in a hybrid work environment.
Urban Sports Club is committed to providing a friendly, safe, and welcoming environment for everyone who applies for a position or already works with us, regardless of their sports preferences, gender, gender identity and expression, sexual orientation, disability, physical appearance, body size, race, age, or religion (or lack thereof).