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GRAIL · 2 days ago

Director, People Business Partner #4428

Durham, NC

Full-time

Onsite

Director/Executive

$167K/yr - $239K/yr

15+ years exp

GRAIL is a healthcare company pioneering new technologies to advance early cancer detection. The Director, People Business Partner will support Development and Operations functions, shape company culture, and align local execution with broader corporate strategies.

BiotechnologyHealth CareHealth DiagnosticsMedicalMedical Device

Hiring Manager

Gail Houston

Responsibilities

Partner closely with the SVP of Development and Operations (based in Menlo Park) and the VP of Operations (based in RTP) as a trusted advisor on people and organizational matters, helping to shape and execute the people strategy that supports team effectiveness, culture, and business goals

Design and implement organizational structures that scale with business growth, driving clarity, effectiveness, and accountability. Guide leaders and employees through organizational changes, ensuring effective communication and support during transitions

Drive change management initiatives that help teams adapt and thrive in a dynamic environment, partnering with leaders to develop and implement effective communication plans that support clarity, alignment, and engagement

Solve complex employee relations (ER) issues with fairness, legal compliance, and thoughtful care

Guide leaders on performance management, development, coaching, compensation, team, and organizational effectiveness initiatives

Facilitate and drive all core people programs, including performance reviews, calibrations, compensation planning, engagement surveys, succession planning, talent reviews, and workforce planning

Build trusted relationships across all levels to foster stronger collaboration and enhance employee engagement

Utilize HR data and analytics to deliver actionable insights and inform evidence-based decision-making

Collaborate with Centers of Excellence (Talent Acquisition, Total Rewards, Culture & Community, Legal, People Ops) to deliver integrated, scalable people programs

Support employees in both exempt and non-exempt roles with tailored HR strategies

Collaborate with the Site Lead, Facilities, Safety, Security, IT, and Site Operations to maintain a safe, inclusive, and engaging workplace while ensuring compliance with employment, policy, and health & safety standards

Partner on site-wide initiatives such as safety drills, training, and audits through an HR lens that promotes communication, readiness, and employee engagement

Embed the company’s mission, vision, and values into daily employee experiences by modeling ethical behavior, accountability, and inclusion across the RTP site. Foster community and belonging through engagement programs, culture-building events, and open communication channels such as town halls and feedback sessions that amplify the employee voice

These responsibilities summarize the role’s primary responsibilities and are not an exhaustive list. They may change at the company’s discretion

Qualification

People Partner experienceChange managementOrganizational designEmployee relationsPeople analyticsProject managementCoaching skillsEmotional intelligenceCollaborationGrowth mindset

Required

15+ years of progressive People Partner experience, including direct support of lab operations, consisting of employees in both exempt and non-exempt roles; currently operating at a Director level or equivalent

Proven success in influencing and advising senior leaders, especially during organizational shifts or transformations

Strong project management skills with a proven ability to develop, lead, and oversee cross-functional initiatives from concept through execution

Deep experience with change management, organizational design, and enabling leadership effectiveness

Skilled in coaching and development of people managers and leadership teams

Strong understanding of employee relations, HR compliance, and employment law, with the ability to manage complex employee relations matters and drive timely, thoughtful resolutions. Skilled at coaching managers through sensitive issues and helping them navigate challenges with confidence and empathy

Ability to balance strategic thinking with operational execution—no task is too big or too small

Proficiency with people analytics and tools like Google Sheets, Slides, or HRIS platforms

High emotional intelligence, integrity, and a growth mindset

Bachelor's degree required; advanced degree or HR certifications are a plus

A collaborative, big-picture thinker who can also operationalize strategy effectively

Demonstrated ability to diagnose organizational challenges and implement scalable solutions

Comfortable working in agile, matrixed environments with shifting priorities

Passion for mission-driven work and building a culture where people can thrive