Head of People (Director Level)

Head of People(Director Level)

Location - Vacaville, CA (Onsite)

Reports to- Head of Operations

Job Type - Full-time

FLSA - Exempt

Company Overview

Polaris Pharmaceuticals, part of Polaris Group, is a multinational biotechnology company focused on the discovery, development, and manufacturing of innovative therapies, with a primary focus on oncology. The company’s lead therapeutic candidate, pegargiminase (ADI-PEG 20), is currently in late-stage clinical development across multiple cancer indications.

Polaris operates across the full drug development lifecycle, from research and clinical development to cGMP manufacturing. With facilities in the United States and Asia, the company combines scientific innovation with integrated development and manufacturing capabilities to advance therapies for patients worldwide.

Job Summary

The Head of People (Director level) will lead and execute the development of HR strategy and infrastructure to support a growing, multi-site organization. This role is responsible for establishing and scaling foundational HR programs, including compensation structure, performance management, employee engagement, and compliance.

This is a high-impact, hands-on role that will work closely with leadership to build effective people practices, strengthen organizational alignment, and support a collaborative and high-performing culture. The position requires both strategic thinking and the ability to execute in a lean environment.

Key Responsibilities

HR Strategy& Infrastructure

• Design and implement core HR frameworks, including job leveling, compensation structure, and career progression
• Lead the development and rollout of a performance management system (goal setting, evaluation, promotion criteria)
• Review and optimize employee benefits programs to ensure competitiveness and cost alignment
• Establish and standardize HR policies, procedures, and governance

Culture & Organizational Development

• Drive initiatives to improve employee engagement, communication, and cross-functional collaboration
• Partner with leadership to implement and reinforce company core values
• Support development of a culture that promotes accountability, teamwork, and transparency
• Coach managers on effective people management and organizational best practices

HR Operations & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with federal, state(California), and local employment laws
• Strengthen HR processes, documentation, and audit readiness
• Oversee HR operations across Vacaville and San Diego sites

Talent & Workforce Planning

• Support hiring strategy for key roles and workforce planning
• Improve onboarding processes and employee experience
• Develop retention strategies aligned with business goals

Leadership & Execution

• Lead a lean HR function and assess future organizational needs
• Provide guidance and development to existing HR personnel
• Operate both strategically and tactically to support business priorities

Required Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive HR experience, including leadership roles in biotech, pharmaceutical, or life sciences organizations
• Demonstrated experience building or scaling HR infrastructure and programs
• Strong knowledge of California labor laws and HR compliance
• Experience in:
• Compensation and job leveling design
• Performance management systems
• Organizational development and employee engagement
• Ability to work hands-on in a fast-paced, evolving environment
• Strong communication skills and ability to influence across all levels of the organization

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting multi-site organizations
• Background in high-growth or scaling companies
• Experience implementing HR systems or improving HR processes
• Master’s degree or MBA in Human Resources or related field

Physical / Work Environment

• This role is based onsite in Vacaville, CA
• Occasional travel to San Diego site required
• Primarily office-based with standard business working conditions

Salary Range

The anticipated salary range for this position is $165,000 – $195,000 annually, depending on experience and qualifications. This role may also be eligible for performance-based bonus and equity.

Benefits

Polaris Pharmaceuticals offers a comprehensive benefits package, which may include:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• Paid time off and company holidays

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Polaris Pharmaceuticals is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable federal,state, or local laws.