Executive Director, People Operations

Guidehouse

People Operations Lead executing enterprise HR strategy focusing on effectiveness, scalability, and modernization. Collaborating with executive leadership to drive organizational growth and transformation.

Posted 7/6/2026full-timeMcLean • Illinois, Texas, Virginia • 🇺🇸 United StatesLead💰 $255,000 - $435,000 per yearWebsite

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Lead the Execution of the People Strategy
Operationalize the People Strategy set by the CPO, translating strategic priorities into actionable programs and initiatives
Partner with People leadership and business leaders to align talent strategy with growth objectives and financial goals
Confirm alignment between People, Corporate Strategy, and VCP initiatives to drive enterprise impact
Lead execution of IPO-related People initiatives, including workforce strategy, governance, and readiness activities
Serve as a strategic advisor to the CPO and executive leadership on organizational effectiveness and workforce strategy
Lead the day-to-day operations of the People organization, driving efficiency, consistency, and scalability across segments and geographies
Design and optimize HR operating models, service delivery frameworks, and core People processes
Lead workforce change initiatives, including restructuring, transformation, and M&A integration support
Drive effective communication and execution of change across the enterprise, supporting leaders through complex transitions
Build and lead a high-performing People Operations function with strong program management, execution rigor, and accountability
Support executive leadership and Board readiness through talent reporting, workforce insights, and leadership transition support
Partner with the CIO and technology teams to implement and optimize HR technology platforms, including HRIS and workforce analytics tools
Drive the integration of AI, automation, and digital solutions to modernize HR processes and improve service delivery
Lead workforce analytics and reporting, developing dashboards and insights to inform decision-making (e.g., QBRs, MBRs)
Use data to identify workforce trends, risks, and opportunities, enabling proactive management of talent and organizational health
Drive continuous improvement across People processes through technology, data, and operational innovation
Establish scalable infrastructure and processes to support a growing, global, and increasingly complex organization

Requirements

What you’ll need

15+ years of experience in HR, People Strategy, or organizational leadership roles
Proven experience leading large-scale People operations, transformation, or enterprise HR functions
Strong expertise in organizational design, workforce strategy, and enterprise transformation
Demonstrated ability to lead complex, global teams and operating environments
Deep experience in process optimization, service delivery models, and HR operating model design
Strong executive presence with the ability to influence C-suite and Board-level stakeholders
Experience in workforce analytics, data-driven decision-making, and HR dashboard development
Expertise in HR technology, including HRIS platforms, automation, and AI-enabled solutions
Strong communication, stakeholder management, and change management leadership capabilities
Understanding of the business drivers behind workforce and organizational strategy

Benefits

Comp & perks

Medical, Rx, Dental & Vision Insurance
Personal and Family Sick Time & Company Paid Holidays
Position may be eligible for a discretionary variable incentive bonus
Parental Leave and Adoption Assistance
401(k) Retirement Plan
Basic Life & Supplemental Life
Health Savings Account, Dental/Vision & Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts
Short-Term & Long-Term Disability
Student Loan PayDown
Tuition Reimbursement, Personal Development & Learning Opportunities
Skills Development & Certifications
Employee Referral Program
Corporate Sponsored Events & Community Outreach
Emergency Back-Up Childcare Program
Mobility Stipend

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

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Hard Skills & Tools

Workforce StrategyProcess OptimizationService Delivery ModelsEnterprise TransformationData-Driven Decision-MakingHR Dashboard DevelopmentHR Operating Model DesignTalent ReportingWorkforce InsightsGovernance

Soft Skills

Strong CommunicationStakeholder ManagementExecutive PresenceInfluencing SkillsLeadership Capabilities