Role Overview for Chief People Officer – San Diego, CA
JRG Partners, a premier executive search firm, has been exclusively retained to lead the search for a transformative Chief People Officer (CPO) for our client, a rapidly growing and innovative medical device company based in the vibrant life sciences hub of San Diego, CA. This is a pivotal executive leadership role reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer and serving as a key member of the executive team. The CPO will be the chief architect and steward of the company’s most valuable asset: its people. In an industry where innovation, precision, and quality can mean the difference between life and death, building a world-class team and a culture of excellence is paramount.
Our client is at the forefront of developing groundbreaking medical technologies that significantly improve patient outcomes. As they scale their operations, enter new markets, and navigate a complex regulatory landscape, the need for a strategic, forward-thinking people leader has never been more critical. The successful candidate will be a visionary HR executive with a proven track record of building and leading high-performing human resources functions within the medical device, biotech, or pharmaceutical sectors. You will be responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive human capital strategy that aligns with and accelerates the company’s ambitious business objectives.
This includes overseeing all aspects of talent acquisition, talent management, organizational development, total rewards, employee engagement, and HR operations. More than just an HR leader, you will be a strategic business partner, a culture champion, and a trusted advisor to the CEO and the Board of Directors, providing insightful counsel on all people-related matters. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a substantial impact on the company’s growth trajectory and to shape a culture that attracts, retains, and inspires the brightest minds in the medical device industry.
Key Responsibilities of Chief People Officer – San Diego, CA
The Chief People Officer will have a broad and impactful remit, responsible for the full spectrum of human resources strategy and execution. Key responsibilities include, but are not limited to:
Strategic Leadership & Organizational Design
Serve as a strategic partner to the CEO and executive leadership team, translating business strategy into a forward-thinking people strategy. Lead organizational design and development initiatives to ensure the company’s structure supports its strategic goals, promoting agility, scalability, and efficiency. Proactively assess and diagnose organizational needs and develop solutions to enhance business performance.
Culture & Employee Engagement
Act as the primary champion and architect of the company’s culture. Develop and implement initiatives that foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, accountability, and high performance, all while maintaining an unwavering commitment to quality and patient safety. Utilize data and analytics, including employee surveys and feedback mechanisms, to measure engagement and drive targeted improvements.
Talent Acquisition & Employer Branding
Develop and lead a sophisticated, best-in-class talent acquisition strategy to attract top-tier talent in a highly competitive market. Oversee the entire recruitment lifecycle, from sourcing and interviewing to offer and onboarding, with a focus on specialized roles in R&D, engineering, clinical affairs, and regulatory compliance. Enhance the company’s employer brand to position it as an employer of choice within the life sciences community.
Talent Management & Leadership Development
Design and implement a comprehensive talent management framework, including performance management, succession planning, and leadership development programs. Create career pathways and development opportunities that engage employees and build a strong pipeline of future leaders. Coach and develop the executive team to enhance their leadership effectiveness and people management skills.
Total Rewards & Compensation
Architect and oversee a competitive and equitable total rewards strategy that attracts and retains top talent. This includes managing executive compensation, broad-based salary structures, incentive plans, equity programs, and comprehensive benefits packages. Ensure compensation practices are aligned with market trends, business performance, and internal equity.
Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion (DEI)
Champion and lead the development and execution of a robust DEI strategy. Integrate DEI principles into all people processes, including recruitment, performance management, and leadership development, to foster an inclusive environment where all employees feel valued and have the opportunity to thrive.
HR Operations & Compliance
Ensure the HR function operates with excellence and efficiency. Oversee the management of HR information systems (HRIS), people analytics, payroll, and benefits administration. Guarantee full compliance with all federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations. Maintain a deep understanding of the specific compliance requirements of the medical device industry.
Employee Relations & Change Management
Provide expert guidance on complex employee relations issues, conducting thorough investigations and ensuring fair and consistent outcomes. Lead the people-related aspects of change management initiatives, including M&A integration, restructuring, and process improvements, ensuring smooth transitions and maintaining employee morale.
Requirements for the Chief People Officer – San Diego, CA
The ideal candidate will be a seasoned and strategic HR executive with a passion for building great companies and a deep understanding of the unique demands of the medical device industry.
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree (MBA, MS in HR, etc.) is highly preferred.
Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in Human Resources, with at least 5-7 years in a senior leadership role (e.g., VP of HR, Head of People) for a complex, high-growth organization. Crucially, significant experience within the medical device, pharmaceutical, or biotechnology industry is a non-negotiable requirement. Experience in both public and private company settings is a strong plus.
Strategic Acumen
Demonstrated ability to function as a strategic business partner and contribute to business strategy and decision-making at the executive level. Proven experience in developing and implementing people strategies that drive business results.
Leadership Skills
A dynamic and inspirational leader with a track record of building, mentoring, and leading high-performing HR teams. The ability to influence and build credibility across all levels of an organization, from the Board of Directors to individual contributors.
Technical Expertise
Deep subject matter expertise across all HR disciplines, including talent acquisition, compensation and benefits, organizational development, employee relations, and HR systems. A comprehensive understanding of relevant employment laws and medical device industry regulations is essential.
Data-Driven Mindset
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a proven ability to use data and metrics to inform people-related decisions and measure the effectiveness of HR initiatives.
Communication Skills
Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills. The ability to articulate a clear and compelling vision and to communicate effectively with a wide range of audiences.
Personal Attributes
High emotional intelligence, integrity, and sound judgment. A proactive, hands-on leader who is comfortable navigating ambiguity and driving change in a fast-paced environment.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to providing a competitive and comprehensive compensation and benefits package to attract and retain the very best talent. The package for the Chief People Officer includes:
- A highly competitive base salary commensurate with experience.
- A lucrative annual executive bonus plan tied to company and individual performance.
- A significant equity stake in the company, providing a meaningful opportunity for wealth creation.
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance for you and your eligible dependents.
- A 401(k) retirement savings plan with a generous company match.
- An executive-level paid time off (PTO) policy and paid company holidays.
- A comprehensive relocation assistance package for qualified candidates.
- An annual stipend for professional development, executive coaching, and continuing education.
- Access to wellness programs, an employee assistance program (EAP), and other valuable perks.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is proud to be the exclusive partner for this critical executive search. We are seeking a world-class people leader who is ready to make a lasting impact on a mission-driven organization. If you are a visionary HR executive with a proven track record of success in the medical device industry and you meet the qualifications outlined above, we encourage you to apply.
To express your interest in this exceptional opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter for confidential consideration. For more information about our expertise in this area, we invite you to explore our Human Resources Executive Search practice. We look forward to connecting with you.
