Position Overview
Our SAAS Client in Chicago is seeking a hands-on HR Manager to lead both Talent Acquisition and HR operations in the U.S. This is a highly impactful, build-from-scratch role responsible for scaling our Chicago team while establishing and formalizing core HR processes, policies, and programs. This role will operate as a true player-coach—owning recruiting efforts while also building out the HR infrastructure needed to support a growing SaaS organization.
Key Responsibilities
Talent Acquisition (50%)
- Own full-cycle recruiting for all U.S.-based hires across technical, GTM, and corporate functions
- Partner with hiring managers and leadership to define hiring needs and workforce plans
- Build and execute sourcing strategies to attract top SaaS talent, including passive candidate outreach
- Develop employer branding initiatives to strengthen the company’s presence in the Chicago market
- Implement and optimize recruiting processes, tools, and metrics to improve hiring outcomes
- Manage candidate experience from initial outreach through onboarding
HR Generalist & People Operations (50%)
- Build and implement foundational HR processes, policies, and programs for the U.S. business
- Develop and maintain employee handbook, policies, and compliance frameworks
- Partner with global HR teams (Germany) to align processes while localizing for U.S. regulations
- Support onboarding, performance management, employee relations, and engagement initiatives
- Establish and manage HR systems, workflows, and reporting
- Advise leadership on organizational design, compensation, and talent development
- Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws
Process & Infrastructure Development
- Create scalable HR and recruiting processes that support rapid growth
- Implement tools and systems to support HR operations (HRIS, ATS, onboarding, etc.)
- Build documentation and standard operating procedures across HR and recruiting
Qualifications
- 5–8+ years of experience across talent acquisition and HR generalist/people operations roles
- Experience in a SaaS or high-growth technology environment preferred
- Proven ability to build recruiting and HR processes from the ground up
- Strong understanding of U.S. employment law and HR best practices
- Experience partnering with global teams or international organizations is a plus
- Hands-on, self-starter mentality with the ability to operate in ambiguity
- Strong stakeholder management and communication skills
Why This Role
- Opportunity to build and shape HR and recruiting from the ground up in the U.S.
- High visibility with leadership and direct impact on company growth
- Collaborative, international environment with exposure to global HR practices
- Ideal role for someone who enjoys both recruiting and broader HR ownership
