Director, People Operations

About Unlock

Unlock's mission is to unleash the power of home equity to enrich people's lives through a Home Equity Agreement (HEA) — an entirely new way to access and utilize home equity with no interest charges or monthly payments. We're mission driven, consumer centric, and designed for flexibility and control.

About the Role

We're hiring a Director of Human Resources/People Operations who's equal parts strategist and hands-on doer — someone who can "fly high & swoop low" on a moment's notice. Our environment is scrappy, fast-paced, and still feels very much like a start-up where creating and trying new things is part of the culture. This role is perfect for someone who enjoys tactical day-to-day work closely with employees and leaders to solve problems large and small, while contributing to the evolving People strategy as we continue to grow.

What You'll Own

• The full People stack — compensation benchmarking, benefits administration, HRIS/PEO management, compliance across multiple states, onboarding, L&D, performance, engagement
• Real relationships with real humans — you'll be point of contact for much of that work, and your relationship with the CPO will be strong, authentic, and collaborative
• A small but mighty team — you'll lead one HR Manager while partnering daily with the Head of Talent Acquisition, Workplace Experience, and CPO, modeling the values you're helping the rest of the company live
• The fun stuff too — culture, engagement, and the things that make people stay, including running our Common Review Process to ensure "high performance" doesn't mean "burning out faster"

Essential Functions

• Conduct compensation analyses, market benchmarking, job evaluations, salary structure administration, and compensation reporting to support informed compensation decisions and organizational compliance
• Plan, build out, and serve as subject matter expert for the HRIS/PEO platform; ensure data integrity, compliance, accuracy, and seamless integration with business systems; partner with payroll to resolve pay matters with appropriate sensitivity
• Administer the organization's total rewards programs, including medical, dental, vision, ancillary benefits, retirement plans, equity/stock option administration, wellness programs, and employee perks, ensuring accurate implementation of total rewards strategies that support retention, engagement, and market competitiveness
• Drive employee engagement, culture, and performance management initiatives, including the Common Review Process (CRP), across the organization
• Provide guidance and support to managers and employees on complex, sensitive HR matters, including accommodations, leaves, investigations, coaching, disciplinary actions, and terminations
• Develop and facilitate compliance training covering human resources and pay practices in accordance with federal, state, and local requirements
• Ensure ongoing compliance with employment laws, labor regulations, and company policies across all operating states; maintain knowledge of regulatory changes and HR best practices
• Design and deliver learning and development programs that provide meaningful growth opportunities for employees at all levels
• Hire, develop, coach, and manage performance of People Operations team members; model and uphold Unlock's values

Scope and Complexity

Interacts with all levels of leadership and employees, often relaying sensitive and/or confidential information.

Physical Demands / Environment Factors

• Requires extensive sitting with periodic standing and walking
• Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times
• Requires significant use of personal computer, phone, and general office equipment
• Needs adequate visual acuity, ability to grasp and handle objects
• Needs ability to communicate effectively through reading, writing, and speaking in person or on telephone
• May require off-site travel; remote work and out-of-state travel

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field, or equivalent experience
• 10+ years of progressive HR experience, including demonstrated leadership and generalist expertise
• Strong knowledge of multi-state employment laws, regulations, and compliance requirements
• Deep experience with HRIS/PEO platforms, benefits administration, onboarding, and recruiting
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to build and interpret HR metrics
• Proven ability to build trusted relationships across all levels and disciplines
• High degree of integrity, professionalism, and discretion with confidential information
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office products, including Outlook, Word, and Excel, and the ability to organize and communicate data effectively
• Proficiency in using AI tools
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment
• Must reside in Phoenix, Arizona

Preferred Qualifications

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field
• PHR, SHRM-CP or other Human Resources credential

What We Offer

• Equity Stake: A share in our company, providing you with a piece of our collective success
• Discretionary Time Off: Flexible time off for you to rest and recharge as needed
• Comprehensive Health Plans: Medical, dental, and vision plans to support your well-being
• 401(k) Match: An annual 4% employer match to aid in your retirement planning
• Make Your Mark: Your chance to play a pivotal role in our growth and leave a lasting impact on the company and industry

Pay

$150,000–$160,000. Actual base salary varies based on factors including but not limited to relevant skill, prior experience, education, base salary of internal peers, demonstrated performance, and geographic location. Additionally, Unlock's Total Rewards package is highly competitive, designed to support your success at work, at home, and at play — such as 401K matching, health benefits, employee stock options and paid time off.