Chief People Officer

Job Title: Chief People Officer (CPO)

Reporting to: Chief Executive Officer (CEO)

Location: Hybrid/East Coast, US

Ascend is pioneering the future of healthcare through relentless innovation, our forward-thinking company is on a mission to manufacture safe, efficacious, and scalable gene therapies. Our vision is to set a new standard for gene therapy manufacturing through continuous scientific and process innovation. Our teams, rooted in biopharma, possess regulatory knowledge and prioritize the quality and potency of manufacturing high-class products.

Position Overview: The Chief People Officer (CPO) will be a key member of the executive team, responsible for developing and executing human resources strategies that support Ascend’s objectives and promote a high-performance culture. This role demands a blend of strategic vision and practical implementation, ideal for an individual experienced in startup environments and fast-growing maturing businesses.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Strategic HR Leadership:

• Develop and implement HR strategies aligned with the company’s business goals.
• Partner with the executive team to provide strategic HR advice and support.
• Foster a culture that matches Ascend values.

• Design and oversee recruitment strategies to attract top talent globally.
• Implement effective onboarding programs to ensure smooth integration of new hires.
• Develop talent management and succession planning processes.

• Create initiatives to enhance employee engagement and retention.
• Promote a positive and inclusive company culture.
• Implement employee recognition programs to celebrate achievements.

• Develop and manage performance appraisal systems that drive high performance.
• Provide guidance and support to managers on performance-related issues.
• Implement training and development programs to upskill employees.

• Design competitive compensation and benefits packages.
• Ensure compliance with local and international labor laws.
• Conduct regular market analysis to maintain competitive edge.

• Oversee HR operations, including payroll, benefits administration, and compliance.
• Implement and manage HR systems and processes.
• Ensure accurate HR data management and reporting.

• Lead DEI initiatives to foster a diverse and inclusive workplace.
• Develop policies and practices that promote equal opportunities.

Requirements

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field; Master’s degree preferred.
• Proven experience as a Chief People Officer or similar HR leadership role, preferably in a startup or fast-growing company.
• In depth knowledge of the biotechnology and lifescience industries
• Service provider or “CDMO” experience is an advantage
• Strong knowledge of HR best practices, labor laws, and regulations.
• Hands-on experience with full-cycle recruitment, performance management, and HR operations.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Strategic thinker with strong business acumen.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire a diverse team.
• Experience in international HR management is a plus.

Personal Attributes:

• Proactive and results-oriented.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• High level of integrity and professionalism.
• Commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Personal Attributes:

• Proactive and results-oriented.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• High level of integrity and professionalism.
• Commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.

Benefits

Aim Higher – Our motto and values. 

• Quality by integrity - We set high standards, putting quality and evidence first to seek the best solutions.
• Adaptability is in our DNA - We are forward-thinking problem solvers, driven by the developing science and to deliver the best medicines.