VP of People and Operations

Job Classification: Executive, People & Operations.

Reports To:

Chief Executive Officer

Department: People & Operations.
Job Type: Full-time

Salary Range: 115K – 135K, plus competitive benefits.

The VP of People and Operations is a visionary leader and advisor, overseeing the organization’s People and Operations functions. This includes people operations, learning & development, diversity, equity & inclusion (DEI), recruiting and retention, organizational development, compliance, office administration, and compensation and benefits. The VP of People and Operations develops systems that align talent management with GOSO’s mission and long-term goals, ensuring strategic support to staff, management, and the board of directors.

As a member of the executive leadership team, the VP of People and Operations plays a central role in organizational planning, process improvement, and change management.

People & Culture

• Serve as GOSO’s culture advocate and internal brand ambassador, fostering a high-performing, inclusive, and values-driven workplace.
• Develop and implement comprehensive strategic and operational people plans including policies on recruitment, DEI, compensation, performance, training, employee relations, and organizational policies.
• Manage administrative processes related to disciplinary actions and terminations, ensuring compliance and organizational alignment.
• Maintain payroll processes and reports up to date to ensure accurate and timely payment of salaries.
• Guide and optimize development, performance management, and succession planning processes that support professional growth and institutional knowledge retention.
• Strengthen staff engagement and morale through clear communication, recognition, and transparent decision-making.
• Collaborate with department heads to ensure that team structures, job roles, and talent needs are aligned with organizational strategy.
• Work with GOSO’s Co-employer to maintain compliance with employment laws, safety standards, and organizational policies.
• Develop and implement organizational policies and procedures, ensuring clarity and accessibility for all.

Operations & Administration

• Oversee day-to-day internal operations, including HR compliance, office administration, IT coordination, facilities, and vendor management.
• Ensure that internal systems and processes are efficient, scalable, and aligned with GOSO’s mission and future growth.
• Lead or co-lead organizational planning and change management.

Strategic Leadership & Collaboration

• Act as a trusted advisor to the CEO and executive team on all people and operational matters.
• Work closely with Finance to support budget planning, particularly around staffing and resources.
• Present strategic updates and reports to the board of directors, including workforce planning, DEI progress, and organizational culture metrics.
• Use data and metrics to inform HR strategy and measure progress.

Additional Duties

• Represent GOSO at external events, conferences, and with peer organizations as needed.
• Lead or support cross-departmental projects that contribute to organizational effectiveness and growth.
• Other duties as assigned.
• Deep knowledge of HR best practices, compliance, and talent development.
• Exceptional leadership and organizational management skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with emotional intelligence.
• Strategic thinking with a solutions-oriented and analytical approach.
• Ability to navigate and manage complex, evolving environments.
• Experience in conflict resolution, performance management, and coaching.

• Commitment to working in a mission driven organization
• Demonstrated personal ethics and values
• Cross-team collaboration and cooperation
• Team-player who works well with a diverse group of people

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Organizational Development, or related field (Master’s preferred)
• Minimum 6–8 years of progressive experience in HR or people operations, including at least 2 years in a senior leadership or executive role
• Proven experience overseeing both HR and internal operations in a mission-driven or…