Head of People Operations

About Absci Absci is a clinical-stage biotechnology company advancing novel therapeutics using generative AI. Our Integrated Drug Creation™ platform combines cutting-edge AI models with a synthetic biology data engine, enabling the rapid design of innovative therapeutics that address challenging therapeutic targets. Absci is a global company headquartered in Vancouver, WA, and maintains offices in New York City, Switzerland, and Serbia. Learn more at www.absci.com or follow us on LinkedIn ( @absci ), X ( @Abscibio ), and YouTube . Head of People Operations Remote, Hybrid, or Onsite Vancouver, WA The Head of People Operations reports to the SVP, People & Experience and leads the strategy and execution of scalable, compliant, and AI-enabled people operations. This role toggles between strategic vision and hands-on execution, directly building, optimizing, and operating core people systems and processes. The role owns the full people infrastructure including HR systems and automation, employee lifecycle operations, analytics, talent management, and global workforce operations to drive efficiency, consistency, and a high quality employee experience while intentionally embedding and reinforcing the company’s core values across all programs, processes, and employee interactions. Responsibilities People Systems, AI & Analytics Own, optimize and manage the HR technology ecosystem (HRIS, payroll, benefits, performance, compensation, equity), ensuring strong data integrity, system integration, and user experience. Design and implement automation and AI-enabled workflows across People operations to improve efficiency, reduce manual work, and support scalable processes. Build and maintain workforce analytics, including dashboards and reporting, translating talent data into actionable insights and ensuring data accuracy. Negotiate with vendors on platform capabilities, contract terms, and feature enhancements to support strategic priorities. Employee Lifecycle & Programs Oversee day-to-day employee lifecycle operations, ensuring accurate processing, strong data quality, and a consistent employee experience. Develop and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) to support consistency, scalability, and audit readiness. Lead the design and continuous improvement of core People programs (performance management, compensation, engagement, and organizational changes), ensuring they are analytically grounded, manager-friendly, and consistently executed. Compliance & Policy Proactively manage employment compliance, including monitoring regulatory changes, completing required filings, and maintaining mandated postings. Conduct audits and implement corrective actions to ensure ongoing compliance and reduce risk. Develop, administer, and track policies and required training programs, ensuring completion and documentation. Talent & Performance Own the end-to-end performance management architecture from goal setting through annual reviews and calibration with a focus on creating high-performing, accountable teams. Lead talent management programs (talent reviews, succession planning, development planning) to support leadership pipeline and internal mobility. Partner with leaders to assess organizational health and identify and address talent risks. Drive internal mobility infrastructure and leadership capability programs to support career development and succession. Global Operations Manage international workforce operations, including coordination with EOR partners. Oversee People operations vendors, including day-to-day management, contract support, and performance monitoring. You Will Be Successful If You: Deep expertise in HRIS platforms, payroll systems, benefits administration, and HR technology architecture; hands-on configuration, workflow automation, and a proven track record of leading systems implementations, process redesign, and digital modernization efforts required Proven track record managing people operations across a complex, multi-