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VP, Human Resources

Lexington, MA

Kiniksa Pharmaceuticals is a commercial‑stage biopharmaceutical company developing and commercializing novel therapies for diseases with unmet need, with a focus on cardiovascular indications. With deep expertise in immunology and inflammation, Kiniksa is advancing a growing portfolio of approved and investigational medicines, anchored by its lead product, ARCALYST®, the first and only FDA‑approved therapy for recurrent pericarditis. Grounded in rigorous science and bold innovation, the company fosters a highly collaborative, patient‑first culture led by accomplished life sciences leaders. At Kiniksa, talented individuals are trusted and empowered to make a real impact—shaping the future of medicine while improving the lives of patients who need it most.

Reporting directly to the COO, the Vice President of Human Resources will be a driving force behind Kiniksa’s global HR vision. As a pivotal member of the HR Leadership Team, this executive will partner closely with senior leaders across the organization to shape and execute enterprise-wide initiatives that fuel innovation, strengthen organizational agility, and elevate a high‑performance culture.

This leader will inspire and develop a team of HR Business Partners while collaborating seamlessly with HR Operations and Talent teams to deliver integrated, scalable people solutions that power Kiniksa’s continued growth and impact.

This role is based in our Lexington office and requires an onsite presence five days per week to support our commitment to seamless partnership, timely decision-making, and high-impact execution.

Responsibilities (including but not limited to):

  • Lead the execution of a comprehensive HR strategy across the global organization, aligned with enterprise goals and culture
  • Serve as a strategic partner to Kiniksa’s senior leadership, advising on organizational design, talent planning, and leadership development
  • Build and manage a high-performing HR Business Partner team to deliver coordinated support across functions
  • Drive organizational effectiveness through change management, performance enablement, and leadership capability building
  • Build strong, influential relationships with key stakeholders, removing barriers to enable operational transformation across the business
  • Facilitate regular leadership team meetings and drive continuous improvement in leadership capability and organizational effectiveness
  • Establish a continuous improvement strategy grounded in business priorities to ensure organizational readiness for future growth and expansion.
  • Partner with Talent Acquisition to attract and retain top talent in a competitive, high-growth environment
  • Oversee employee relations and performance management strategies to foster accountability, and fast action in recognition and performance outcomes
  • Collaborate with HR Operations to ensure compensation and benefits programs are implemented in a way that supports talent retention and motivation
  • Champion and reinforce a culture that is aligned with enterprise-wide values and the strategic priorities of Kiniksa

Qualifications and Experience:

  • 15+ years of Human Resources experience including HR leadership and people management 
  • Bachelor’s degree in business, HR, or related field required
  • Experience working with senior leadership, with an established track record of delivering results
  • Demonstrated success in a fast faced, innovative biotech/life sciences company
  • Direct experience with executive and non-executive compensation, experience in incentive sales compensation a plus
  • Executive presence and ability to lead and influence by example
  • Flexible to adjust priorities based on overall business need
  • Proven mindset of proactive continuous improvement
  • Strong attention to detail
  • Strong commitment to compliance and ethical standards
  • Proficient with Microsoft Office suite (i.e., Word, PowerPoint, Excel, Outlook, SharePoint, etc.)
  • Ability to travel up to 25%
  • Salary is commensurate with experience

Compensation decisions are based on objective criteria including role responsibilities, experience/qualifications, internal equity, geographic location, and external market benchmarks.

Pay Range

$310,000 - $345,000 USD

Kiniksa is an Equal Opportunity employer and will consider you without regard to your race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, transgender status, age, genetics, national origin, protected veteran status, or disability status, or any other legally protected category. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation. 

Kiniksa does not accept unsolicited resumes from staffing agencies or search firms. Any resumes submitted without a signed agreement will be considered property of Kiniksa, and no fees will be paid.

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As set forth in Kiniksa Pharmaceuticals’s Equal Employment Opportunity policy, we do not discriminate on the basis of any protected group status under any applicable law.

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