Director, People Operations

About Unlock Unlock’s mission is to unleash the power of home equity to enrich people’s lives. We do this through a financial solution called a Home Equity Agreement or HEA, an entirely new way to access and utilize home equity. We’re not a lender, so there are no interest charges or monthly payments and homeowners with poor credit or high levels of debt can still qualify. We're beyond passionate about helping our customers build greater financial resiliency. We are mission driven, consumer centric and our products are designed for the way homeowners want to live their lives today - with flexibility and control. We're hiring a Director of Human Resources/People Operations who's equal parts strategist and hands-on doer. This role is perfect for someone who can “fly high & swoop low” on a moment’s notice. Our environment is scrappy, fast-paced and still feels very much like a start-up where creating and trying new things is part of the culture. The right person will be someone who can slice and dice a comp analysis with ease and solid recommendations, handle a complex ‘leave’ matter and then switch into strategic mode partnering with the CPO and the Executive Team on a growth or change initiative. This role is perfect for someone who enjoys the tactical day-to-day work working very closely with employees and leaders to solve problems large and small, while contributing to the evolving People strategy and changes to business needs as we continue to grow. What You'll Own The full People stack. Compensation benchmarking, benefits administration, HRIS/PEO management, compliance across multiple states, onboarding, L&D, performance, engagement. Employee Relations is predominately handled by the CPO Real relationships with real humans. We put relationships first and use care when handling the multitude of issues that come through People Ops. You’ll be point of contact for much of that work. Your relationship with the CPO will be a strong, authentic and collaborative one. A small but mighty team. You’ll lead one HR Manager on your team while partnering daily with the Head of Talent Acquisition, Workplace Experience, and CPO. modeling the values you're helping the rest of the company live. The fun stuff too. Culture, engagement, the things that make people stay. You'll run our Common Review Process and help make sure "high performance" doesn't just mean "burning out faster." Essential Functions • • Conduct compensation analyses, market benchmarking, job evaluations, salary structure administration, and compensation reporting to support informed compensation decisions and organizational compliance. • Plan, build- out, and serve as subject matter expert for the HRIS/PEO platform; ensure data integrity, compliance, accuracy, and seamless integration with business systems; partner with payroll to resolve pay matters with appropriate sensitivity. • Administer the organization's total rewards programs, including medical, dental, vision, ancillary benefits, retirement plans, equity/stock option administration, wellness programs, and employee perks, ensuring accurate implementation of total rewards strategies that support retention, engagement, and market competitiveness. • Drive employee engagement, culture, and performance management initiatives, including the Common Review Process (CRP), across the organization. • Provide guidance and support to managers and employees on complex, sensitive HR matters, including accommodations, leaves, investigations, coaching, disciplinary actions, and terminations. • Develop and facilitate compliance training covering human resources and pay practices in accordance with federal, state, and local requirements. • Ensure ongoing compliance with employment laws, labor regulations, and company policies across all operating states; maintain knowledge of regulatory changes and HR best practices. • Design and deliver learning and development programs that provide meaningful growth opportunities for employees at all levels. • Hire, develop, coach, and manage performance of People Operations team members; model and uphold Unlock's values. Note: The essential functions are intended to describe the general content of and requirements of this position and are not intended to be an exhaustive statement of duties. Specific tasks or responsibilities will be documented as outlined by the incumbent's immediate manager. Scope and Complexity Interacts with all levels of leadership and employees, often relaying sensitive and/or confidential information. Physical Demands/Environment Factors (Examples Listed) • Requires extensive sitting with periodic standing and walking. • Must be able to lift 15 pounds at times • Requires significant use of personal computer, phone, and general office equipment. • Needs adequate visual acuity, ability to grasp and handle objects. • Needs ability to communicate effectively through reading, writing, and speaking in person or on telephone. • May require off-site travel; remote work and out-of-state travel Minimum Qualifications • • • Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field, or equivalent experience. • 10+ years of progressive HR experience, including demonstrated leadership and generalist expertise. • Strong knowledge of multi-state employment laws, regulations, and compliance requirements. • Deep experience with HRIS/PEO platforms, benefits administration, onboarding, and recruiting. • Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills. • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to build and interpret HR metrics. • Proven ability to build trusted relationships across all levels and disciplines. • High degree of integrity, professionalism, and discretion with confidential information. • Proficiency in Microsoft Office products, including Outlook, Word, and Excel, and the ability to organize and communicate data effectively. • Proficiency in using AI tools. • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment. • Must reside in Phoenix, Arizona. Preferred Qualifications • Bachelors or Masters degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field PHR, SHRM-CP or other Human Resources credential What we offer • Discretionary Time Off: Flexible time off for you to rest and recharge as needed. • Comprehensive Health Plans: Medical, dental, and vision plans to support your well-being. • 401(k) Match: An annual 4% employer match to aid in your retirement planning. • Make Your Mark: Your chance to play a pivotal role in our growth and leave a lasting impact on the company and industry. $150,000-$160,000 Actual base salary varies based on factors, including but not limited to, relevant skill, prior experience, education, base salary of internal peers, demonstrated performance, and geographic location. Additionally, Unlock's Total Rewards package is highly competitive, designed to support your success at work, at home, and at play – such as 401K matching, health benefits, employee stock options and paid time off. Unlock is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regards to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or other protected status under all applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances Unlock is an equal opportunity employer. We evaluate qualified applicants without regards to race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, marital status, ancestry, physical or mental disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or other protected status under all applicable laws, regulations, and ordinances.