As the People Operations Lead, you will oversee people processes across Upvest’s locations in Germany, Estonia, and the UK, ensuring compliance and operational efficiency at every stage of the employee lifecycle. You will lead a small, focused team to streamline workflows, reduce manual effort, and build scalable systems that support a growing, distributed workforce.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and develop a team dedicated to maintaining compliant and efficient people operations across multiple jurisdictions
- Ensure adherence to local labor laws, payroll regulations, and social security requirements, particularly in Germany, with growing scope in the UK
- Drive automation of repetitive tasks and transition to self-service models to free up strategic capacity
- Integrate AI-powered tools to improve HR decision-making, service delivery, and employee support
- Collaborate with Employer of Record partners to manage remote employee operations effectively
- Design and refine processes that balance regulatory compliance with a seamless employee experience
What We’re Looking For
You bring extensive experience managing multi-location people operations, with deep knowledge of German labor and payroll frameworks. You are fluent in both German and English and have a proven ability to lead teams through change. Your approach is defined by precision, ownership, and a commitment to making systems simpler and more intuitive for everyone.
- Proven track record in transitioning HR operations from manual to automated workflows
- Experience mentoring and developing team members to achieve high performance
- Strong understanding of compliance frameworks and a mindset that prioritizes both accuracy and employee-centricity
- Familiarity with HiBob and Looker is an asset
- Interest or experience in applying AI tools—such as chatbots, predictive analytics, or document automation—to HR functions
- Background in fast-scaling startups and experience adapting processes to evolving needs
Work Environment & Benefits
This role supports hybrid and remote work across Europe, with the option to work from Berlin, London, or Tallinn. Remote work abroad is permitted up to 183 days per year. You’ll benefit from 30 days of annual leave, a personal development budget, and access to professional coaching.
After four years, you’ll be eligible for UpRest—a fully paid one-month sabbatical. Additional offerings include a competitive, above-market salary, participation in the employee equity program, sports benefits, and inclusive company events. Employee Resource Groups such as Upfem and UpVergent support community and belonging.
Our Culture
We believe in simplifying complexity and acting with integrity. We value ownership, curiosity, and progress over perfection. Transparency and shared purpose guide how we communicate and collaborate. We celebrate wins, support growth, and challenge ourselves to aim higher together.
Upvest is an equal opportunity employer. We welcome diversity and are dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace for all team members.
