Director, HRBP

Role Summary

The Director, HR Business Partner (HRBP) serves as a strategic advisor to Nuvation Bio’s business units and leadership, guiding organizational design, talent management, leadership development, employee relations, workforce planning, and culture-building initiatives. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, science-driven environment, coaching senior leaders and supporting teams through growth and change. This role is hybrid, preferably based in the New York City metro area, with Boston metro area candidates considered.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary HRBP for assigned business units and their leadership, developing strong, collaborative relationships built on trust and insight.
• Partner with Executive Director, HRBP and leadership to shape organizational strategy, structure, and workforce planning to support current and future business priorities.
• Provide thought leadership on people-related matters including talent planning, team effectiveness, and change management.
• Lead performance management activities, including goal setting, calibration, feedback, and performance review processes.
• Identify leadership and team development needs; support the design and implement programs to enhance capabilities and support growth.
• Collaborate with Talent Acquisition on role scoping, hiring strategy, and ensuring strong onboarding experiences.
• Serve as a trusted advisor in navigating complex employee relations matters with empathy, sound judgment, and fairness.
• Support the development and maintenance of a positive, inclusive, and performance-driven culture.
• Partner with leaders to drive employee engagement initiatives and strengthen team communication and collaboration.
• Partner with Compensation to ensure competitive, equitable job leveling, salary decisions, and reward strategies.
• Provide guidance on HR policies, compliance requirements, and best practices for managers and employees.
• Collaborate with HR teams (Compensation, Talent Acquisition, People Operations) to deliver integrated solutions.
• Assess organizational needs and partner with leaders to implement strategies that strengthen effectiveness and scalability.
• Guide teams through periods of organizational change, ensuring communication clarity, alignment, and smooth transitions.

Qualifications

• Required: 10+ years of progressive HR experience, including at least 5 years as an HR Business Partner supporting senior leaders.
• Required: Demonstrated success partnering with multiple functions in the biotech/pharma environment.
• Preferred: International experience and experience working with teams in China.
• Required: Strong business acumen with the ability to understand scientific and technical functions and translate business needs into people strategies.
• Required: Exceptional relationship-building, communication, and influencing skills.
• Required: Proven ability to manage complex employee relations matters with discretion and sound judgment.
• Required: Experience in high-growth or fast-paced environments, with a comfort level navigating ambiguity.
• Required: Candidates must live within the NYC or Boston metro areas.

Education

• Bachelor's degree in business and/or related field or equivalent required.

Additional Requirements

• Ability to work onsite in the New York City or Boston office on a hybrid schedule.

Skills

• Problem-Solver
• Personable
• Credible
• Emotional intelligence and curiosity
• Communication
• Accountability
• Adaptability