People Operations Lead

About Bioptimus

Bioptimus is an innovative startup committed to developing the first universal AI foundation model for biology, aimed at driving groundbreaking advancements and accelerating innovation in biomedicine. Founded in October 2023 and headquartered in Paris, the company has secured over $75 million in funding and brings together a world-class team of scientists and engineers at the intersection of AI and life sciences.

Role Overview

As the People Operations Lead, you will manage the day-to-day People function, working closely with the COO in a hybrid and distributed setting. This part-time role initially involves around three days per week, fluctuating with business requirements, and offers potential growth in both time commitment and responsibilities as the company expands.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage all aspects of People administration including contracts, payroll coordination, maintaining employee records, and addressing employee inquiries and issues.
• Serve as the primary, approachable, and trusted point of contact for all employees regarding People matters.
• Design and implement key HR initiatives such as performance evaluations, onboarding and probation processes, company policies, employee surveys, salary frameworks, and compensation strategies.
• Bring innovative and tailored approaches suitable for a startup operating in a hybrid environment, moving beyond traditional corporate practices.
• Take ownership of challenging people management situations by coaching managers through underperformance issues, managing exit and termination processes, and collaborating with legal where necessary.
• Identify and cultivate new managerial talent, providing coaching to improve leadership effectiveness.

Working Pattern and Flexibility

• The role generally requires about three days per week, with flexibility based on demand — occasionally increasing to a fourth day during peak times such as hiring, performance reviews, exit processes, or policy implementation.
• There is opportunity for the position to grow in hours and scope, potentially evolving into a full-time leadership role as the organization expands.
• This position is well suited for individuals aiming to build a portfolio career or contribute to a limited number of companies while maintaining a strong commitment to Bioptimus.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Possesses comprehensive end-to-end experience managing People operations independently and confidently making informed decisions without reliance on rigid rules.
• Has a proven track record handling sensitive issues such as underperformance management and employee exits.
• Background working in startups or scale-ups with an understanding of People functions under resource constraints and in fast-paced, hybrid work environments.
• Brings thoughtful and innovative ideas for performance management, onboarding, compensation, and policies rather than following standard corporate manuals.
• Exemplifies excellent communication skills, capable of addressing sensitive matters with clarity, care, and consideration.
• Demonstrates approachability and reliability, being the trusted HR contact for staff and managers, even during difficult circumstances.
• Comfortable balancing detailed administrative work with strategic, big-picture thinking.
• Experience managing full compensation and performance review cycles from start to finish.
• Keen to develop their role over time, focusing on people partnership and leadership development within a part-time arrangement.

Why Work With Us?

• Contribute to shaping the future of biology and AI by leading the People function supporting pioneering research and development.
• Enjoy a flexible working schedule that promotes ownership and work-life balance.
• Access a clear growth trajectory for expanding hours and responsibilities, with potential for a full-time leadership position.
• Work within an innovative environment using state-of-the-art HR tools and approaches to manage a comprehensive People remit effectively.
• Join a mission-driven, collaborative culture that values ambition, creativity, and individual ownership.

Diversity and Inclusion Commitment

Bioptimus upholds an inclusive employment policy ensuring equal opportunity regardless of race, religion, nationality, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, marital status, or disability. The company strives to maintain a welcoming and respectful environment for all employees and candidates.