Senior Manager, Talent Programs

About the Team

The People Programs team at OpenAI plays a pivotal role in creating an environment where every employee can thrive, grow, and contribute to our mission of ensuring that AGI benefits all of humanity. This expanding team develops and executes human-first strategies and programs that support our rapid growth, unique culture, and innovative spirit.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and strategic talent leader to serve as the Senior Manager of Talent Programs and first dedicated leader for this work. This senior-level role is responsible for owning, operating, and iterating on key programs in flight—such as recognition, promotions, employee engagement, sentiment analysis, performance reviews, career ladders/levels, and internal mobility—while also architecting and launching new programs from the ground up. 

While some traditional industry practices may be useful, success in this role will require a deep understanding of our People and culture in order to craft effective, people-first strategies that support both our growth and the employee experience.

The ideal candidate brings a strong mix of vision and execution: someone who can shape long-term strategy while also rolling up their sleeves to build, refine, and deliver programs day to day. You’ll work closely with HRBPs, People Programs, Recruiting, and cross-functional leaders to ensure talent initiatives are scalable, aligned with our values, and tailored to the needs of our unique and fast-evolving organization.

This role is initially scoped as a high-impact individual contributor with the potential to grow a team over time. It reports to the Head of People Strategy & Programs.

Your Key Responsibilities:

• Talent Management Strategy: Develop and implement talent management programs that attract, retain, and develop top talent, aligning with the organization's goals and objectives. 

• Recognition Programs: Design and oversee effective employee recognition programs to enhance engagement and performance. ​

• Promotions and Career Development: Manage the promotion process, ensuring transparency and fairness, and develop career pathways to support employee growth. ​

• Employee Engagement: Lead initiatives to assess and improve employee engagement and sentiment, utilizing surveys and feedback mechanisms to inform action plans. ​

• Performance Reviews: Oversee the performance evaluation process, including talent reviews and calibrations, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and fostering a culture of continuous feedback and development. ​

• Career Ladders and Levels: Develop and maintain clear career progression frameworks, defining roles, responsibilities, and competencies required at each level. ​

• Internal Mobility: Create and promote internal opportunities for employees, facilitating talent movement across the organization to meet business needs and support career development. ​

• Collaboration: Partner with HR Business Partners, department leaders, and other stakeholders to ensure talent programs are effectively integrated and aligned with broader HR and organizational strategies. ​

• Data Analysis and Reporting: Utilize data analytics to assess the effectiveness of talent programs, providing insights and recommendations for continuous improvement. ​

We’re seeking:

• 10+ years of experience in talent management, human resources, or related areas.

• Proven experience in designing and implementing talent programs, including recognition, promotions, engagement, performance management, and career progression.​

• Strong understanding of talent management best practices and trends.​

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate across all levels of the organization.​

• Strong analytical skills, with experience in data-driven decision-making.​

• Proficiency with HRIS and talent management systems.​

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and priorities in a fast-paced environment.​

Workplace & Location

This role is based in our San Francisco office, and we chose this location due to the proximity of our core group of People and cross-functional teams. We offer relocation support to new employees, and we use a hybrid work model: three days in the office per week with optional work from home on Thursdays and Fridays.

Our open-plan offices have height-adjustable desks, conference roo