Human Resources and Operations Director

About the Company

Armada is an edge computing startup that provides computing infrastructure to remote areas where connectivity and cloud infrastructure is limited, as well as areas where data needs to be processed locally for real-time analytics and AI at the edge. We’re looking to bring on the most brilliant minds to help further our mission of bridging the digital divide with advanced technology infrastructure that can be rapidly deployed anywhere.

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and pragmatic Director of Human Resources & Operations to lead all people and office-related functions across our India operations. Based in our Thiruvananthapuram office, this role combines strategic leadership with day-to-day execution. You will be responsible for building and scaling a high-performing employee experience, overseeing HR systems and compliance, and managing our physical office environment. This is not a purely strategic role—you will be expected to roll up your sleeves and execute alongside your team, especially in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.

This is a senior leadership role, reporting into the Global Head of People, and serving as the key liaison for all India-based operational and people matters. You will partner closely with global HR, Legal, Finance, and Executive teams to align India operations with Armada’s broader goals and values.

Location. This role is office-based at our Trivandrum, Kerala office. 

What You'll Do (Key Responsibilities)

Leadership & Strategic Ownership

• Serve as the senior-most HR and Operations leader for Armada in India, accountable for the overall success of people, workplace, and operational strategy.
• Partner with the Head of Global People Operations, Managing Director and cross-functional leadership to ensure regional alignment with global priorities.
• Provide strategic direction while remaining hands-on in execution, especially in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
• Lead and develop a small high-performing local HR and Operations team.

People Operations & Employee Lifecycle

• Own and optimize the full employee lifecycle, including onboarding, internal mobility, offboarding, and employee services.
• Maintain high standards in data accuracy, employee documentation, and HRIS systems.
• Lead employee communications and ensure clarity, transparency, and alignment with company culture and policy.

Talent Acquisition & Workforce Planning

• Lead end-to-end recruitment operations in India, including sourcing strategy, candidate experience, and offer process.
• Partner with global Talent Acquisition to align hiring plans with business needs and headcount targets.
• Track hiring KPIs and ensure equity, speed, and quality in all recruiting efforts.

Compensation, Benefits & Payroll

• Oversee regional compensation and benefits strategies, ensuring competitiveness, compliance, and cost-effectiveness.
• Collaborate with global Total Rewards to manage compensation cycles, benchmarking, and job leveling.
• Review and approve monthly payroll in partnership with vendors, Finance, and global teams, ensuring accuracy and regulatory compliance.

Performance, Development & Manager Enablement

• Drive performance management processes, including goal setting, feedback, and career development.
• Implement training, upskilling, and leadership development programs tailored to India-based employees.
• Coach and enable managers to lead effectively and build strong, engaged teams.

Compliance, Risk & Policy

• Ensure compliance with Indian labor laws, workplace regulations, and global standards.
• Develop and maintain HR and operations policies, ensuring clarity and consistent enforcement.
• Own audit preparedness and collaborate with Legal and Finance on risk management, investigations, and regulatory requirements.

HR Systems & Analytics

• Own regional implementation and use of HR systems including HRIS, ATS, and payroll platforms.
• Ensure clean, reportable data across all people systems and lead the generation of headcount, attrition, DEI, and engagement reports.
• Partner with global teams to streamline and automate people processes through scalable systems.

Workplace, Real Estate & Facilities

• Oversee day-to-day office operations, including vendor relationships, supplies, security, and space planning.
• Develop and execute long-term workspace strategy, including real estate planning, lease negotiation, and hybrid/onsite workplace models.
• Ensure the India office remains a safe, productive, and engaging environment for employees.

Culture & Engagement

• Champion Armada’s values and culture across the India office, ensuring strong alignment with global standards and local relevance.
• Design and execute employee engagement programs, recognition initiatives, and internal communications.
• Support and lead local efforts, embedding equal opportunity into people programs, hiring, and leadership practices.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive human resources and operations experience, including at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Deep understanding of Indian labor laws, human resources practices, and office operations.
• Demonstrated experience in both strategic leadership and hands-on execution across people and operational functions.
• Strong communication, stakeholder management, and change leadership skills.
• Proven ability to work cross-functionally across time zones and global teams.
• Experience with human resources systems (Rippling, GreyTHR, Greenhouse preferred) and comfort using data to inform decisions.
• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree or HR certification preferred.

Compensation & Benefits

For India-based candidates: We offer a competitive base salary along with equity options, providing an opportunity to share in the success and growth of Armada.IS1

#LI-Onsi

#LI-DNI

You're a Great Fit if You're

• A go-getter with a growth mindset. You're intellectually curious, have strong business acumen, and actively seek opportunities to build relevant skills and knowledge 
• A detail-oriented problem-solver. You can independently gather information, solve problems efficiently, and deliver results with a "get-it-done" attitude 
• Thrive in a fast-paced environment. You're energized by an entrepreneurial spirit, capable of working quickly, and excited to contribute to a growing company
• A collaborative team player. You focus on business success and are motivated by team accomplishment vs personal agenda 
• Highly organized and results-driven. Strong prioritization skills and a dedicated work ethic are essential for you 

Equal Opportunity Statement

At Armada, we are committed to fostering a work environment where everyone is given equal opportunities to thrive. As an equal opportunity employer, we strictly prohibit discrimination or harassment based on race, color, gender, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other characteristic protected by law. This policy applies to all employment decisions, including hiring, promotions, and compensation. Our hiring is guided by qualifications, merit, and the business needs at the time.