Head of People

Knox Systems is a rapidly growing FedRAMP-as-a-Service startup that exceeded revenue targets by 50% this year and is positioned for aggressive expansion. We're building a high-performing team where talent density drives success, and we need an exceptional People leader to scale our organization thoughtfully and strategically.

The Role

As Head of People, you'll build and lead the people function for a fast-growing startup, balancing operational excellence with strategic workforce planning. You'll be a key partner to leadership as we scale from our current size to meet ambitious growth targets while maintaining our culture of high performance and accountability.

What You'll Do

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and execute a comprehensive people strategy aligned with our aggressive growth plans
• Design and implement compensation frameworks that is competitive to attract and retain top talent in a competitive market
• Partner with department leaders on workforce planning and organizational design
• Build HR infrastructure and systems to support scalable operations

Operational Excellence

• Lead day-to-day HR operations across all departments, ensuring compliance with federal and state employment laws
• Implement and optimize HRIS and payroll platforms to streamline people operations
• Oversee full-cycle recruitment, onboarding, and offboarding processes
• Administer employee benefits programs (health insurance, 401(k), leave) with accuracy and clear communication
• Maintain HR compliance across EEO, FMLA, ADA, I-9, and other regulations

Culture & Performance

• Serve as a trusted advisor on performance management, employee relations, and conflict resolution
• Design and deliver training and development programs, including leadership coaching
• Foster a culture of accountability, engagement, and continuous improvement
• Track and report on key HR metrics (turnover, headcount, retention) to drive data-informed decisions
• Maintain and evolve HR policies, procedures, and the employee handbook

What You Bring

Required

• 5 years of progressive HR experience with at least 3 years leading an HR function or team
• Deep knowledge of employment law and HR compliance practices
• Proven experience designing compensation structures and performance management systems
• Track record implementing HRIS and payroll systems from selection through optimization
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to influence at all levels
• Strategic mindset with strong execution capabilities—you can build the plane while flying it

Preferred

• PHR/SPHR or SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP certification
• Startup or high-growth company experience
• Experience in technology or regulated industries

Location & Compensation

• Location: NYC (on-site)
• Compensation: $150,000-$200,000 base salary