HR and People Operations Manager / in Santa Monica, California
JOB REFERENCE NUMBER: 2401
POSTED ON Jun 9, 2026 — Human Resources BY POCKETBOOK AGENCY
HR & People Operations Manager
Reports to: VP, Accounting & People Ops
Reports to: VP, Accounting & People Ops
We're seeking an HR & People Operations Manager to build and scale the people infrastructure for a growing health and wellness company in Santa Monica. This role will own the full employee lifecycle—from recruiting and onboarding through development and off-boarding—while establishing the systems, processes, and culture that support a high-performing team. You'll also manage contract administration, vendor relationships, and office operations, serving as a strategic partner to leadership on all people-related matters.
Responsibilities:
HR & People Operations
- Own end-to-end talent lifecycle, including job postings, candidate screening, interview coordination, offer management, and employee off-boarding
- Revamp and execute onboarding programs that set new hires up for success
- Manage employee relations, performance management processes, and conflict resolution
- Maintain HRIS systems and ensure accurate employee records and compliance documentation
- Administer benefits programs and serve as primary point of contact for employee benefits questions
- Administer and track required HR and compliance employee training
- Develop and implement HR policies and employee handbook updates as the company evolves
- Support compensation planning, salary benchmarking, and equity administration Contract Management & Procurement
- Draft, review, and manage vendor contracts, NDAs, consulting agreements, and other commercial documents
- Negotiate vendor terms and manage relationships to optimize cost and quality
- Own procurement processes for office supplies, software tools, and service providers
- Maintain centralized contract database and ensure timely renewals and compliance
Culture & Office Management
- Shape and nurture company culture through programs, events, and team-building initiatives
- Create employee engagement initiatives that reinforce company values
- Coordinate team events, offsites, and culture-building activities
- Manage day-to-day office operations, facilities, and workspace planning
- Serve as office manager, handling everything from supplies to space optimization
Requirements:
- 3-5 years of HR and people operations experience, ideally in fast-growth startups or consumer brands
- Knowledge of multi-state employment law, HR compliance, and benefits administration
- Experience with contract drafting, negotiation, and vendor management
- Proven track record managing multiple HR functions simultaneously with limited resources
- Excellent organizational skills with ability to build scalable systems and processes
- High emotional intelligence and discretion when handling sensitive employee matters
- Collaborative and proactive, with ability to work autonomously and anticipate needs
- Comfortable in a hands-on role where you'll balance strategic thinking with tactical execution
- Passion for building inclusive, high-performing teams and positive workplace culture
- Annual Bonus
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- Generous PTO and company holidays
- Product discount
- Opportunity to shape the people function at a mission-driven company improving women's health
Pocketbook Agency is acting solely as a recruiting and placement firm for this position and is not the employer of record for this role unless otherwise explicitly stated. All hiring decisions, compensation, benefits, and employment terms are determined by the client employer. By applying, you acknowledge that submission of an application does not guarantee placement or employment.
Pocketbook Agency is an equal opportunity recruiting firm and does not discriminate in its recruiting, screening, or placement practices based on race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law.