Role Overview for Chief People Officer – Cambridge, MA
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a pioneering medical device company at the forefront of healthcare innovation. Located in the heart of the biotech hub of Cambridge, MA, our client is dedicated to developing life-changing technologies that improve patient outcomes. We are seeking a transformative and strategic Chief People Officer (CPO) to join their executive leadership team. This is a pivotal role responsible for architecting and executing a comprehensive human resources strategy that aligns with the company’s ambitious growth objectives and its mission-driven culture.
The CPO will serve as a key strategic partner to the CEO and the board, acting as the primary steward of the company’s most valuable asset: its people. You will be responsible for cultivating a high-performance, inclusive, and engaging work environment where top talent can thrive. This role requires a leader who can balance strategic vision with operational excellence, navigating the complexities of a fast-paced, highly regulated industry.
You will oversee all facets of human resources, including talent acquisition, organizational development, succession planning, compensation and benefits, employee relations, diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I), and HR compliance. The ideal candidate is a seasoned HR executive with a proven track record in the medical device or life sciences sector, possessing the business acumen to contribute to broad organizational strategy and the emotional intelligence to foster a deeply human-centric culture.
In this capacity, you will not only manage the HR function but also shape the very fabric of the organization. You will be instrumental in scaling the company, ensuring that its infrastructure, processes, and culture can support rapid growth and innovation. Your leadership will directly impact the company’s ability to attract, develop, and retain the brilliant minds necessary to achieve its groundbreaking goals. If you are a visionary people leader passionate about making a tangible impact in the healthcare space, we invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of Chief People Officer – Cambridge, MA
Executive Leadership & Strategy
Act as a trusted advisor and member of the executive team, contributing to the overall strategic direction of the company. Develop and implement a forward-thinking people strategy that supports business goals and drives long-term growth.
Talent Acquisition & Management
Design and execute a sophisticated talent acquisition strategy to attract top-tier candidates in a competitive market, particularly for specialized scientific, engineering, and clinical roles. Oversee the entire employee lifecycle, from recruitment and onboarding to performance management and offboarding.
Organizational Design & Development
Partner with leadership to design and implement effective organizational structures that enhance agility and scalability. Lead initiatives related to leadership development, succession planning, and career pathing to build a robust talent pipeline.
Culture & Engagement
Champion and cultivate a positive, inclusive, and high-performance culture. Develop and implement programs to measure and enhance employee engagement, morale, and retention. Serve as a model of the company’s core values.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DE&I)
Lead the development and execution of a comprehensive DE&I strategy. Foster an environment of belonging and ensure that DE&I principles are embedded in all people processes, from hiring to promotion.
Total Rewards
Oversee the design and administration of competitive and equitable compensation, equity, and benefits programs. Ensure that the total rewards strategy effectively attracts and retains top talent while aligning with the company’s financial objectives.
HR Operations & Technology
Modernize and optimize HR operations through the effective use of technology and data analytics. Ensure the HRIS and other systems are leveraged to provide valuable insights and drive efficiency.
Employee Relations & Compliance
Provide expert guidance on complex employee relations issues. Ensure the company maintains compliance with all federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, with a particular focus on the standards governing the medical device industry. A strategic approach to human resources is critical for navigating this complex landscape.
Performance Management
Evolve the company’s performance management philosophy and systems to foster continuous feedback, professional growth, and accountability. Link individual and team performance to organizational goals.
Change Management
Lead the people-related aspects of organizational change, providing guidance and support to leaders and employees during periods of transition, M&A activity, or rapid growth.
Requirements for the Chief People Officer – Cambridge, MA
Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in Human Resources, with at least 7-10 years in a senior leadership role (e.g., VP of HR, Head of People).
Industry Expertise
Significant experience within the medical device, biotechnology, pharmaceutical, or a related life sciences industry is strongly required. A deep understanding of the unique talent, regulatory, and cultural dynamics of this sector is essential.
Educational Background
Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field is required. An MBA or other advanced degree (e.g., Master’s in HR, Organizational Development) is highly preferred.
Strategic Acumen
Proven ability to function as a strategic business partner at the executive level. Must be able to translate business strategies into actionable people initiatives.
Leadership Skills
Exceptional leadership, coaching, and mentoring skills. A track record of building and developing high-performing HR teams.
Communication & Influence
Superior communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills. The ability to build strong relationships and influence stakeholders at all levels, from the board of directors to individual contributors.
Regulatory Knowledge
In-depth knowledge of employment law and HR best practices. Familiarity with the compliance and quality system requirements of a regulated environment (e.g., FDA, ISO 13485) is a significant asset.
Data-Driven Mindset
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a demonstrated ability to use data and metrics to inform decisions and measure the impact of HR programs.
Location
Ability to work on-site at the company headquarters in Cambridge, MA. This is not a remote position.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to providing a comprehensive and competitive benefits package to support the health, well-being, and financial security of their employees and their families. As a member of the executive team, you can expect:
Competitive Compensation
A highly competitive base salary, annual performance-based bonus, and a significant equity package.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium medical, dental, and vision insurance plans with low employee contributions.
Retirement Savings
A 401(k) retirement plan with a generous company match.
Generous Time Off
A flexible and generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and company holidays.
Professional Development
A substantial budget for continuous learning, executive coaching, conference attendance, and professional memberships.
Wellness Programs
Company-sponsored wellness initiatives, including gym membership reimbursements and mental health resources.
Family Support
Comprehensive parental leave policies and family-friendly benefits.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the right candidate.
Commuter Benefits
Pre-tax commuter benefits for parking and public transportation.
How to Apply
This is a retained search being conducted exclusively by JRG Partners. If you are a dynamic and strategic HR leader with a passion for the medical device industry and a desire to build a world-class organization, we encourage you to apply. To be considered for this confidential opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience.
JRG Partners specializes in placing top-tier talent within innovative companies. To learn more about our expertise in this sector, please visit our Life Sciences practice area page. We look forward to connecting with you.
