At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead global HR operations and architect systems for seamless compliance and employee experience.
- Company: Join Ouster, a forward-thinking tech company focused on innovation and diversity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, equity options, and comprehensive benefits package.
- Other info: Diverse workplace committed to inclusivity and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact by transforming global people operations in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: 8+ years in HR operations with international payroll experience; leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 51750 - 63250 £ per year.
Role Summary
Ouster is looking for a Director, Global People Operations to act as our core systems architect, operational builder, and multi-national compliance lead for our global team.
This critical "builder-manager" position is focused on transforming and scaling our global People infrastructure.
In this role, you will report directly to the Chief People Officer and work in close partnership with the broader People team and Centers of Excellence (COEs).
We are seeking a hands-on leader who is equally passionate about architecting high-level global frameworks and getting into the details of configuring day-to-day workflows to guarantee seamless compliance.
Responsibilities
- 1. HR Systems & Data
- Select, configure, and manage our global HRIS (HR Information System) and connected tools (ATS, payroll, equity) to ensure absolute data accuracy.
- Build scalable workflows for core tasks like onboarding, job changes, leaves of absence, and offboarding.
- Optimize service delivery by managing internal HR documentation, intranets, and employee support ticketing systems to maintain a high-quality, frictionless employee experience.
- Create people analytics dashboards and reports to help executive leadership track headcount, turnover, and operational trends.
- 2. International Payroll & Compliance
- Partner with Finance and Legal to ensure accurate, on-time payroll and competitive benefits across our global offices.
- Keep our people records cleanly aligned and compliant across our global network of international subsidiaries.
- Establish clear guidelines, compliance tracking, and operational processes for our mix of full-time employees (FTEs) and international contractors.
- Act as our main advisor on local labor laws, working hours, benefits, and data privacy (such as GDPR/PDPA).
Work with internal and external counsel to adapt our company policies to local laws in Canada, the UK, France, Singapore, and Thailand.
- Manage global PEO and EOR relationships to streamline international hiring and ensure local regulatory alignment.
- 3. Team Management & Partnership
- Partner closely with our US HRBPs, Recruiting, and Compensation teams to make sure company programs (like job leveling and performance reviews) actually work in our systems and international offices.
- Manage and coach our international HR operations team, starting with direct management of our HRBP in France.
- Act as the direct HR point of contact and advisor for international executive leaders and teams across Europe, Canada, and APAC.
Qualifications
- Basic Qualifications
- 8+ years of experience running HR Operations, global HRIS platforms, and international payroll, with at least 2+ years of experience managing direct reports.
- Direct experience managing HR operations across complex, multi-entity international corporate structures (subsidiaries, joint ventures, or international branches).
- Hands-on experience managing payroll, benefits, and local labor compliance across multiple international jurisdictions.
- Highly motivated by system design and automation, but equally energized by executing tactical process audits and system updates yourself.
- Strong background managing compliance and vendor relationships for mixed employment models (FTEs and international contractors).
- Preferred (Bonus) Qualifications
- Experience managing employee stock education and equity distributions in a public or late-stage private tech company.
- Experience with complex global M&A integration
- Proven track record handling complex international employee relations issues under strict local labor laws.
The base pay will be dependent on your skills, work experience, location, and qualifications. This role may also be eligible for equity & benefits.
We acknowledge the confidence gap at Ouster. You do not need to meet all of these requirements to be the ideal candidate for this role.
Ouster is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer that pursues and hires a diverse workforce.
Ouster does not make employment decisions on the basis of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, nationality, sex, gender, gender-identity, sexual orientation, disability, age, military status, or any other basis protected by local, state, or federal laws.
Ouster also strives for a healthy and safe workplace, and prohibits harassment of any kind.
If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please let us know.
Director, Global People Operations in London employer: Ouster
Ouster is an exceptional employer that prioritises employee growth and a collaborative work culture, making it an ideal place for professionals looking to make a meaningful impact in global People Operations. With a focus on innovation and compliance across multiple international jurisdictions, employees benefit from a dynamic environment that encourages hands-on leadership and system optimisation. The company also values diversity and inclusion, ensuring a supportive workplace where every team member can thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director, Global People Operations in London
✨Join HR Networks
Get involved in HR-specific communities, like the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and local HR meetups. This is a fantastic way to connect with industry professionals and learn about job openings before they even hit job boards!
✨Make Your Presence Known
Attend HR conferences and workshops in your area to network with potential employers. Don't be shy—introduce yourself, exchange business cards, and let them know you're keen on a full-time role in HR. Who knows, you might just land a friendly face at Ouster!
✨Leverage Your University Connections
If you’re a recent grad or still in uni, tap into your career services and alumni network. Many universities have connections with companies looking for HR talent, so get those leads and apply through our website for a smoother application process.
✨Showcase Your HR Passion
Create content around HR topics you’re passionate about, like employee engagement or diversity initiatives. Share articles or insights on LinkedIn to demonstrate your knowledge and get noticed by recruiters. It’s a subtle yet effective way to show you’re the right fit for a full-time role at Ouster.
We think you need these skills to ace Director, Global People Operations in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your HR Skills:When you’re crafting your CV, make sure you highlight specific HR skills that are relevant to the role at Ouster. Include any experience with recruitment processes, employee relations, or performance management, and don’t forget to mention your familiarity with HR software or tools that could give you an edge.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine, so tailor it to Ouster and the specific HR role. Highlight your passion for people management and how your unique approach can help foster a positive workplace culture. Be sure to sprinkle in examples from your past experiences that illustrate your problem-solving abilities and interpersonal skills.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any HR certifications or relevant training under your belt, be sure to showcase them! These qualifications can really set you apart from other candidates when applying for this full-time HR position at Ouster. List them prominently on your CV to catch the hiring manager's eye.
Align with Company Culture:Make sure your application speaks to Ouster's values and culture. Research the company and align your experiences or values with what they stand for. This will show them that you're not only a fit for the role but also for the overall vibe of the team and organisation.
How to prepare for a job interview at Ouster
✨Brush Up on HR Best Practices
As you're diving into human resources, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the latest HR practices and legislation. Get familiar with key topics like employee engagement, talent acquisition, and diversity initiatives, as these could easily pop up in your interview with Ouster.
✨Know Your Recruitment Tools
Most HR roles involve using various recruitment tools and ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems). Make sure you can comfortably discuss platforms like Workday or Greenhouse. If you've had direct experience, share those examples; if not, show your eagerness to learn!
✨Highlight Your People Skills
A full-time HR role at Ouster will require strong interpersonal skills. Prepare to share stories that demonstrate how you’ve successfully navigated conflicts or supported team members in past experiences. Authenticity goes a long way in this field.
✨Stay Current with HR Trends
Being up to speed with current HR trends, like remote working protocols or mental health initiatives, can set you apart. Be ready to discuss how these trends could impact Ouster and how you would contribute to adapting HR strategies.
