Regional People Operations Partner - Minneapolis

About the Role

As the Regional People Operations Partner, you will serve as a strategic HR partner to Operations leadership (VPO/RDO/ACO) in assigned region(s). This role involves developing and coaching Operations management, partnering in People Planning, executing staffing plans, and providing training to leadership and associates. You will also facilitate resolution of associate relations issues. This position typically supports 80–120 stores.

Responsibilities

• Partner with Operations leadership (primarily VPOs, RDOs, ACOs, and MUMs) in assigned region(s) to facilitate People Planning, including development and coaching of Operations management.
• Evaluate internal candidates for vacant or new positions and identify high-potential associates.
• Participate in panel interviews to build alignment.
• Conduct field visits and interviews to identify opportunities for improved retention.
• Coach Operations leadership on associate relations to achieve problem resolution without litigation; conduct timely and thorough investigations involving associate complaints and disputes, and prepare documentation of issues.
• Resolve simple associate relations issues; involve Field HR Directors for complex issues or refer to the Office of Dispute Resolution in the Support Center.
• Assist Operations leadership in developing and executing the Regional Strategic Plan to ensure both internal and external candidate pipelines.
• Forecast staffing needs to fill vacant Operations management positions promptly to support company growth.
• Participate in Open House events and career fairs, supported by Recruiters at the Support Center.
• Advise Operations leadership on conducting effective associate performance evaluations and assisting associates with career and personal development.
• Follow up with new hires through the Keep In Touch Program to promote understanding of Panda’s Mission, Vision, Values, and Culture.
• Ensure new hires receive adequate and appropriate training opportunities and encourage their participation.
• Assist or coordinate with the Decentralized Learning Manager to provide local training and development sessions for Operations management, including courses on 7 Habits, Sexual Harassment, Interviewing Skills, Conducting Effective Performance Reviews, and Creating Individual Development Plans.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree required; business and/or HR majors preferred.
• 7+ years of HR experience, with a minimum of 5 years of HR Generalist experience in associate relations, training and development, recruiting, and people management, or equivalent Operations management experience, preferably in a retail/hospitality environment.
• Must reside in or be willing to relocate to the Minneapolis area.
• Successful completion of initial and periodically required trainings.
• Obtain a valid Food Handler's Card within 30 days of employment.

Work Environment

This role involves regular local travel and occasional overnight travel (25–50%), varying by region. Candidates must be able to meet these requirements, with or without reasonable accommodations.

Benefits

• Hybrid remote schedule
• 401K with company match
• Yearly bonus opportunity
• Full medical, dental, and vision insurance
• On-site fitness center, biometric screen, and flu shot clinic
• Discounts at Panda restaurants, theme parks, and gym memberships
• Paid time off starting at 15 days with 7 federal holidays
• Continuous education assistance and scholarships
• Income protection including Disability, Life, and AD&D insurance
• Bereavement leave

Pay

Pay Range: $112,500 - $158,000 annually. Within the range, individual pay is determined using various factors, including work location and experience.