Director, HRBP

Nuvation Bio is a biopharmaceutical company tackling some of the greatest unmet needs in oncology by developing differentiated and novel therapeutic candidates. Our vision is to significantly change the practice of oncology by developing medicines that provide truly meaningful improvements in quality of life and survival for people with cancer.

The Director, HR Business Partner (HRBP) will serve as a strategic advisor and trusted partner to several Nuvation Bio business units and their respective leadership teams. This role will provide strategic guidance and hands‑on support across all people-related activities, including organizational design, talent management, leadership development, employee relations, workforce planning, and culture-building initiatives. The ideal candidate is a proven HR leader who thrives in a fast‑paced, commercial and science‑driven environment and can effectively coach senior leaders, influence key decisions, and support teams through growth and change.

This role will work on a hybrid schedule and preferably will be based in the New York City metro area, though Boston metro area candidates are also being considered.

• Serve as the primary HRBP for assigned business units and their respective leadership, developing strong, collaborative relationships built on trust and insight.
• Partner with Executive Director, HRBP and leadership to shape organizational strategy, structure, and workforce planning to support current and future business priorities.
• Provide thought leadership on people-related matters including talent planning, team effectiveness, and change management.

• Lead performance management activities; including goal setting, calibration, feedback, and performance review processes.
• Identify leadership and team development needs; support the design and implementation of programs to enhance capabilities and support growth.
• Collaborate with Talent Acquisition on role scoping, hiring strategy, and ensuring strong onboarding experiences.

• Serve as a trusted advisor in navigating complex employee relations matters with empathy, sound judgment, and fairness.
• Support the development and maintenance of a positive, inclusive, and performance-driven culture.
• Partner with leaders to drive employee engagement initiatives and strengthen team communication and collaboration.

• Partner with Compensation to ensure competitive, equitable job leveling, salary decisions, and reward strategies.
• Provide guidance on HR policies, compliance requirements, and best practices for managers and employees.
• Collaborate with HR Teams (Compensation, Talent Acquisition, People Operations) to deliver integrated solutions.

• Assess organizational needs and partner with leaders to implement strategies that strengthen effectiveness and scalability.
• Guide teams through periods of organizational change, ensuring communication clarity, alignment, and smooth transitions.

• Bachelor's degree in business and/or related field or equivalent required.
• 10+ years of progressive HR experience, including at least 5 years as an HR Business Partner supporting senior leaders.
• Demonstrated success partnering with multiple functions in the biotech/pharma environment.
• International experience and experience working with teams in China a plus.
• Strong business acumen with the ability to understand scientific and technical functions and translate business needs into people strategies.
• Exceptional relationship-building, communication, and influencing skills.
• Proven ability to manage complex employee relations matters with discretion and sound judgment.
• Experience in high-growth or fast‑paced environments, with a comfort level navigating ambiguity.
• Ability to work onsite in the New York City or Boston office on a hybrid schedule.
• Candidates must live within the NYC or Boston metro areas.

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