About Canonical

Canonical is the company behind Ubuntu, the world's leading open source operating system powering enterprise innovation worldwide. As a pioneer in open source software, Canonical delivers Ubuntu to global leaders in public cloud, data science, AI, engineering, and IoT. Our customers include top public cloud providers, silicon manufacturers, and industry giants across sectors. With over 1,200 colleagues in 75+ countries, Canonical embodies a founder-led, profitable, and rapidly growing distributed workforce. Our remote-first culture fosters global collaboration, with teams uniting 2-4 times yearly in inspiring global locations for strategy alignment and execution.

Ubuntu's versatility drives breakthrough initiatives, from edge computing to hyperscale clouds, making Canonical a cornerstone of modern technology infrastructure. Joining Canonical means contributing to open source excellence while shaping the future of enterprise computing.

Role Overview

Canonical seeks a dynamic Regional HR Manager for EMEA to join our People team. Reporting to the Global Head of HR, you will lead the EMEA HR professionals, ensuring precise, compliant, and scalable operations amid our continued growth. This hands-on leadership role involves partnering with senior leaders, executing employee lifecycle processes, and building a future-ready HR function. Ideal for strategic thinkers with tactical execution skills, the position offers global impact in a remote-first environment.

Key Responsibilities

Lead EMEA HR Operations

Scale the regional HR team, deliver timely and accurate HR services, and foster seamless processes with global People teams. Own talent development, succession planning, performance assessments, onboarding, and engagement initiatives to build high-performing teams.

Strategic Business Partnership

Collaborate with senior managers on performance management, organizational design, employee engagement, rewards, and workforce planning. Coach managers on employee relations across multiple jurisdictions and support training programs.

Innovation and Compliance

Drive diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, design policies, and lead business-critical HR projects with global reach. Present Canonical's HR practices at company events, leveraging data for informed decisions and ensuring EMEA compliance.

Qualifications & Requirements

Essential Criteria

We seek candidates with an exceptional academic track record from high school and university. Required experience includes leading HR initiatives in technology businesses across regions, people management, and business partnering with senior stakeholders. Hands-on involvement in daily HR routines is essential, alongside remote-first organization experience. Proficiency in data analytics for HR decisions, deep knowledge of EMEA employment laws, and handling complex employee relations matters are critical. Fluency in business English, self-motivation, organization, and a results-oriented mindset are non-negotiable. Willingness to travel up to 4 times yearly for events is required.

Nice-to-Have Skills

Experience with immigration and mobility processes, professional HR qualifications like CIPD or SHRM, and facilitation skills will set you apart.

Benefits & Perks

Canonical offers competitive, performance-based compensation tailored to location, experience, and impact, with annual reviews and bonuses. Enjoy a fully distributed work environment with biannual in-person sprints in exciting locations. Additional perks include a USD 2,000 personal learning budget, recognition rewards, generous annual holiday leave, maternity and paternity leave, and an Employee Assistance Programme. Our global benefits ensure fairness and meet local needs.

Career Growth

At Canonical, career progression is driven by performance and impact. As Regional HR Manager, you'll shape HR strategy during hypergrowth, gaining exposure to global leadership. Access learning budgets, mentorship from top executives, and opportunities to influence open source innovation. Our remote-first model supports work-life balance while enabling rapid advancement in a collaborative, high-trust culture.

Why Join Canonical

Work on Ubuntu, the backbone of open source enterprise tech, in a profitable, growing company. Thrive in our remote-first culture with minimal office roles and global team sprints. Contribute to pioneering distributed collaboration, DEI initiatives, and cutting-edge HR practices. Canonical values authenticity, results, and open-mindedness, offering a premium environment for HR professionals passionate about technology and people.

Role FAQs

Is this role fully remote?

Yes, it's home-based across EMEA in our distributed model, with occasional travel for team events.

What salary can I expect?

Compensation is competitive for EMEA tech HR leaders, with annual reviews and performance bonuses.

Do I need EMEA-specific legal knowledge?

Yes, practical experience with employment laws and complex ER across EMEA countries is essential.

How does Canonical support professional development?

USD 2,000 annual learning budget, training programs, and global project exposure fuel your growth.

What makes Canonical's culture unique?

Remote-first with global sprints, founder-led innovation, and a focus on open source impact set us apart.