Role Overview for VP, Global HR with a Medical Device Company – Irvine, CA
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained to identify a visionary and strategic Vice President of Global Human Resources for a pioneering medical device company headquartered in Irvine, California. Our client is a leader in developing innovative medical technologies that significantly improve patient outcomes and transform healthcare standards. This is a pivotal executive leadership role for an individual passionate about building world-class teams and fostering a culture of excellence in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
As the VP of Global HR, you will be a key member of the executive leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO). You will serve as a strategic partner to the business, responsible for designing, developing, and executing a global human resources strategy that aligns with and accelerates the company’s ambitious growth objectives.
This role requires a dynamic leader who can balance strategic planning with hands-on execution, driving initiatives across all facets of HR, including talent management, organizational development, total rewards, and HR operations on a global scale. You will be instrumental in shaping a high-performance culture that attracts, retains, and develops top-tier talent, ensuring the organization is poised for sustained success in the competitive medical device landscape.
The ideal candidate will bring a wealth of experience from the life sciences sector, demonstrating a proven track record of leading HR functions across multiple international regions. You will be a trusted advisor to senior leadership, providing expert counsel on all people-related matters and championing initiatives that enhance employee engagement, diversity, equity, and inclusion. This is a unique opportunity to make a profound impact on a mission-driven organization dedicated to saving and improving lives worldwide.
Key Responsibilities of VP, Global HR with a Medical Device Company – Irvine, CA
Strategic HR Leadership & Business Partnership
- Collaborate with the executive team to define and implement an HR strategy that supports long-term business goals, including global expansion, product innovation, and market leadership.
- Serve as a strategic advisor to senior leaders and department heads, providing insights and guidance on organizational design, workforce planning, change management, and leadership development.
- Utilize HR analytics and data to inform business decisions, identify trends, and develop proactive solutions to challenges related to talent, culture, and organizational effectiveness.
- Champion the company’s mission, vision, and values, ensuring they are deeply embedded in all people processes and programs.
Talent Management & Organizational Development
- Lead the global talent acquisition function to attract and hire world-class talent, developing innovative sourcing strategies to build a robust pipeline for critical roles across engineering, clinical, regulatory, and commercial functions.
- Design and oversee a comprehensive talent management framework, including performance management, succession planning, and leadership development programs to cultivate talent from within.
- Drive initiatives that foster a culture of continuous learning and professional growth, ensuring employees have the skills and opportunities needed to advance their careers.
- Lead organizational effectiveness and change management initiatives to support the company’s evolution, including mergers, acquisitions, and restructuring activities.
Culture, Engagement, and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I)
- Act as the primary steward of the company culture, developing programs and communications that reinforce desired behaviors and create an inclusive, collaborative, and high-performance work environment.
- Develop and implement a global DE&I strategy that promotes a diverse workforce and ensures an equitable and inclusive experience for all employees.
- Oversee employee engagement surveys and action planning processes, partnering with leaders to translate feedback into meaningful improvements that enhance the employee experience.
Total Rewards & HR Operations
- Oversee the global total rewards strategy, including the design and administration of competitive compensation, executive compensation, equity, and benefits programs that attract and retain top talent.
- Ensure HR systems (HRIS), processes, and infrastructure are scalable, efficient, and capable of supporting a growing global organization.
- Lead the HR operations team to deliver exceptional service to employees and managers, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in payroll, benefits administration, and HR data management.
Employee Relations & Global Compliance
- Provide expert guidance and coaching to managers and employees on complex employee relations issues, conducting thorough and objective investigations as needed.
- Ensure the company’s HR policies and practices are in compliance with all applicable labor laws and regulations in all countries of operation.
- Stay abreast of changes in employment law and best practices within the global medical device industry to mitigate risk and ensure a fair and ethical workplace.
Requirements for the VP, Global HR with a Medical Device Company – Irvine, CA
Education & Professional Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree (MBA, MS in HR) is highly preferred.
- A minimum of 15+ years of progressive human resources experience, with at least 7 years in a senior HR leadership role (e.g., Senior Director, VP) with global responsibilities.
Crucial
Significant experience within the medical device, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or a related life sciences industry is mandatory. A deep understanding of the talent landscape and regulatory environment is essential for success.
- Demonstrated experience leading HR in a fast-paced, high-growth, and matrixed organization. Experience with both public and private company environments is a plus.
- Proven track record of successfully managing HR functions across multiple international regions, including North America, EMEA, and APAC.
Skills & Competencies
Strategic Mindset
Ability to think strategically and translate business objectives into actionable HR initiatives that drive results.
Business Acumen
Strong understanding of business fundamentals, financial metrics, and how HR can contribute to the bottom line.
Leadership & Influence
Exceptional leadership skills with the ability to inspire, mentor, and develop a high-performing global HR team. Proven ability to influence and build credibility with senior executives, stakeholders, and employees at all levels.
Communication Skills
Outstanding verbal, written, and interpersonal communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex concepts clearly and persuasively.
Data-Driven
Proficient in using HR analytics and metrics to measure success, identify trends, and make informed decisions.
Change Management
Expertise in leading organizations through significant change, demonstrating resilience, and fostering adaptability.
Emotional Intelligence
High degree of emotional intelligence, with excellent judgment and the ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion and empathy.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Competitive base salary and an attractive executive-level annual bonus program.
- Meaningful long-term incentives, including stock options or RSUs.
- Comprehensive health and wellness benefits, including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.
- Generous paid time off (PTO) policy and paid company holidays.
- Robust 401(k) retirement savings plan with a competitive company match.
- Funding for professional development, continued education, and tuition reimbursement.
- Employee wellness programs and resources.
- Relocation assistance may be available for exceptional candidates.
How to Apply
JRG Partners is the exclusive search firm leading this recruitment. If you are a transformational HR leader with a passion for the life sciences industry and meet the qualifications outlined above, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.
To be considered, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience. JRG Partners is a leader in executive recruitment, and this role falls within our Life Sciences practice, where we connect top talent with innovative companies changing the face of healthcare. We look forward to reviewing your application.
