Lead HR Business Partner at Handshake: Shape the Future of Careers in the AI Economy

Role Overview

As a Lead HR Business Partner at Handshake, you'll play a pivotal role in shaping the employee experience and driving organizational success within the Engineering, Product, and Design teams, supporting both the Careers and Handshake AI business units. This position offers a unique opportunity to combine traditional HRBP responsibilities with strategic initiatives aimed at scaling the business and fostering a thriving culture. You'll be a trusted advisor to leaders and employees alike, navigating ambiguity, adapting to rapidly changing priorities, and contributing to an intense operational environment. Your focus will be on building high-performing, inclusive teams, developing leadership capabilities, and implementing effective people programs.

A Day in the Life

Your day as a Lead HR Business Partner at Handshake will be dynamic and multifaceted, encompassing a range of responsibilities. Here's a glimpse into what you can expect: * **Strategic Partnering:** Collaborate with Engineering, Product, and Design leaders to understand their business objectives and develop HR strategies that align with their goals. * **Employee Relations:** Provide guidance and support to managers and employees on employee relations matters, ensuring fair and consistent application of company policies. * **Performance Management:** Facilitate the performance management process, including goal setting, performance reviews, and development planning, to drive employee growth and improve overall performance. * **Talent Development:** Identify and develop high-potential employees, providing coaching and mentoring to help them reach their full potential. * **Organizational Development:** Partner with leaders to design and implement organizational changes that improve efficiency, effectiveness, and employee engagement. * **Culture Building:** Champion Handshake's values and culture, fostering a positive and inclusive work environment where employees feel valued and supported. * **Data Analysis:** Analyze HR data to identify trends and insights, using this information to inform HR strategies and programs. * **Program Management:** Lead or participate in HR projects and initiatives, such as compensation planning, benefits administration, and employee engagement surveys.

Why San Francisco?

San Francisco, a global hub of innovation and technology, offers an unparalleled environment for career growth and personal fulfillment. As the home of Handshake's headquarters, San Francisco provides access to a vibrant community of tech professionals, groundbreaking companies, and cutting-edge ideas. The city's diverse culture, world-class dining scene, and stunning natural beauty make it an exceptional place to live and work. Being located in San Francisco allows you to collaborate closely with Handshake's leadership team and other key stakeholders, fostering strong relationships and driving impactful results.

Career Path

The Lead HR Business Partner role at Handshake provides a solid foundation for career advancement within the HR function. With proven success in this role, you could potentially advance to positions such as: * **Senior HR Business Partner:** Taking on a larger scope of responsibilities and providing strategic HR support to a broader range of business units. * **HR Director:** Leading a team of HR professionals and overseeing all HR functions within a specific business unit or region. * **VP of Human Resources:** Developing and implementing HR strategies that align with the overall business strategy of the company. Handshake is committed to providing its employees with opportunities for professional development and growth, and this role is a stepping stone to a fulfilling and impactful career in HR. ## Salary & Benefits At Handshake, we believe in compensating our employees fairly and providing them with a comprehensive benefits package that supports their well-being and professional growth. While the exact salary for this role will depend on your experience and qualifications, we offer a competitive salary that is commensurate with the market rate for similar positions in the San Francisco area. In addition to a competitive salary, we also offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes: * **Health Insurance:** Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage. * **Paid Time Off:** Generous vacation, sick leave, and holidays. * **Parental Leave:** Paid parental leave for new parents. * **401(k) Plan:** A 401(k) plan with a company match to help you save for retirement. * **Professional Development:** Opportunities for professional development and growth, such as training courses, conferences, and mentorship programs. * **Wellness Programs:** Wellness programs to promote your physical and mental well-being. * **Employee Assistance Program:** Access to confidential counseling and support services. * **Equity:** Opportunity to own equity in a fast-growing company. ## Mission Handshake's mission is to democratize opportunity and connect every student and young professional with the right career. We believe that everyone, regardless of their background or location, should have access to the resources and opportunities they need to succeed. As a Lead HR Business Partner, you'll play a vital role in supporting this mission by attracting, developing, and retaining top talent who are passionate about making a difference in the world. ## How to Apply If you're a highly motivated and experienced HR professional who is passionate about shaping the future of careers, we encourage you to apply for the Lead HR Business Partner position at Handshake. To apply, please submit your resume and cover letter through our online application portal. In your cover letter, please highlight your relevant experience and explain why you're interested in working at Handshake. ## FAQ **1. What is Handshake?** Handshake is the career network for the AI economy. 20 million knowledge workers, 1,600 educational institutions, 1 million employers (including 100% of the Fortune 50), and every foundational AI lab trust Handshake to power career discovery, hiring, and upskilling, from freelance AI training gigs to first internships to full-time careers and beyond. **2. What are the key responsibilities of the Lead HR Business Partner?** The Lead HR Business Partner will act as a trusted partner to managers on people topics, support business leaders, drive core people processes, support onboarding and development, collaborate with HR teams, help navigate employee relations, and gather feedback to improve people programs. **3. What qualifications are required for this role?** The ideal candidate will have 5-10 years of HR experience, a strong foundation in HRBP functions, comfort operating in ambiguity, clear communication skills, and a collaborative working style. **4. What are some bonus points for this role?** Bonus points include experience supporting a high-intensity environment, working with Engineering, Product, or Design teams, familiarity with compensation frameworks and people analytics, and exposure to scaling teams and org change. **5. What kind of benefits does Handshake offer?** Handshake delivers benefits that help employees feel supported and thrive at work and in life, including equity, health insurance, paid time off, parental leave, and more. **6. What is the culture like at Handshake?** Handshake fosters a collaborative, inclusive, and fast-paced environment where employees are empowered to make a difference. **7. What is the career path for this role?** With proven success, you could advance to Senior HR Business Partner, HR Director, or VP of Human Resources. **8. How does Handshake support employee growth?** Handshake offers professional development opportunities like training courses, conferences, and mentorship programs. **9. What is Handshake's mission?** Handshake's mission is to democratize opportunity and connect every student and young professional with the right career. **10. How do I apply for this role?** Submit your resume and cover letter through our online application portal, highlighting your relevant experience and interest in working at Handshake.