Head of People & Culture

Heidelberg, San Francisco

Full-time

Permanent employee

Your mission

To build and lead our team during our next phase of growth, we are looking for an experienced Head of People & Culture to join us. In this strategic role, you will partner closely with leadership to design the structures, processes, and culture that enable high performance within a cutting-edge AI infrastructure company.

Responsibilities

Act as a strategic partner to leadership on all People-related matters, ensuring scalable HR structures and processes that evolve in line with our company’s long-term vision.
Design and implement the global People strategy, including organizational design, performance management, and talent development practices.
Develop and oversee a scalable compensation strategy, including salary bands, leveling frameworks, and employee benefits structures.
Ensure compliance with both US and German labor laws, including employment regulations, employee benefits, and leave programs.
Oversee and continuously improve People operations, including HRIS systems inclduing employee lifecycle processes, documentation, and internal policies.
Use People data and analytics to provide actionable insights that support leadership decision-making.

Your profile

At least 10 years of experience in HR, with several years building global People functions in startups or high-growth environments.
Expertise in either U.S. or German employment and labor law (Arbeitsrecht), with strong working knowledge of the other, as well as a solid understanding of US & German labor law and global employment structures.
Proven experience building scalable HR frameworks, including compensation structures, Skill matrix and performance management processes.
Understanding of hiring and supporting international and distributed teams across on-site, hybrid, and remote environments.
Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to build trust across all levels of the organization.
Strong strategic thinking combined with a hands-on, pragmatic execution mindset.
Highly resourceful self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced, evolving startup environment.
Experience with HRIS systems, including the ability to leverage HR data and analytics to inform strategic decision-making.
Fluent English as this is our working language with an international team

Nice to have

German (C1 or above)
Familiarity with implementing Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) initiatives that foster an inclusive and high-performing workplace.
Experience working with highly technical teams (e.g., engineering, AI, or deep-tech environments).

This is a hybrid position with the base either in Germany or near our team in San Francisco.

Why us?

Build something big: Help build and scale a fast-growing AI infrastructure startup
Pay & perks: Competitive compensation with a performance-based incentive, subsidized Deutschlandticket, and access to a discount portal
Work your way: Flexible hours with hybrid and remote-friendly options
Fast lanes, no red tape: Flat hierarchies and rapid decision-making mean ideas ship quickly
Global team: Work with a diverse, international team across Germany and the USA
Modern headquarters: Well-stocked office near the Heidelberg Hauptbahnhof, available on a hybrid basis or as a place to connect during our quarterly team workshops
Top setup: Your choice of high-quality hardware and equipment
Relocation support: We’ll help make your move to join us as smooth as possible

About us

Turbalance GmbH is an innovative, emerging startup that transforms AI laws. We are a team of passionate problem-solvers who believe in what we’re building. We constantly push boundaries and embrace our inner nerds as we find new ways to tackle complex challenges. You will find a dynamic work environment here, with flat or even non-existent hierarchies and the chance to take on responsibility from day one.

Turbalance is committed to providing a respectful, safe, and inclusive workplace. Diversity at Turbalance means fostering an environment where individual differences are recognized, valued, and respected, enabling everyone to fully contribute their talents and strengths.

This commitment begins with our recruitment process. If you require any accommodations to support your application or interview, please let us know as we are happy to assist.