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Associate Director, Talent

New York, NY

Studs is a category-defining ear piercing and earring brand named one of “the 10 most innovative companies in retail for 2023” by Fast Company. Studs connects ear piercing with aftercare and earring shopping to create an end-to-end Earscaping® experience. We offer a better retail and digital experience that prioritizes safety and expertise in a cool, fun and welcoming environment, along with a wide earring assortment—all at an accessible price point.

Based in New York, NY, the Associate Director, Talent is a critical leader within the People Team, reporting directly to the VP of People. This role is responsible for shaping and executing strategic talent initiatives that align with the company’s long-term objectives. As the strategic talent leader, you will ensure that workforce planning, leadership development, and learning strategies support business goals while fostering a culture of continuous growth and adaptability. You will play a key role in workforce planning, leadership development, talent acquisition, and change management strategies, positioning the company for sustainable growth. You will be responsible for ensuring comprehensive training for employees, with a priority on managerial capability building, as well as partner with business leaders in co-authoring learning journeys across the company.

You will manage the Associate Manager of Employee Experience, who is responsible for the employee engagement survey processes, supporting performance review processes including system ownership of the platform, managing LMS administration and training delivery processes, and providing administrative support for talent programs. You will guide and develop this direct report to ensure efficient and impactful delivery of key employee experience and learning initiatives.

Salary Range: $155,000 - $175,000, plus equity

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Talent Partnership & People Strategy

  • Advise leaders on talent strategy, organizational design, and leadership effectiveness to align with long-term business goals.
  • Develop and implement talent strategies that enhance workforce planning, employee engagement, and retention.
  • Leverage talent analytics to track trends, diagnose challenges, and guide data-informed decision-making.
  • Partner with Legal and People Operations to ensure compliance with employment laws and policies.
  • Contribute to compensation and benefits strategy, ensuring competitive and equitable programs.

Leadership Development & Talent Operations

  • Build leadership capability through targeted training programs and co-author learning journeys with business leaders.
  • Develop and oversee learning and development initiatives, prioritizing managerial capability and professional growth.
  • Guide the Employee Experience Associate Manager on LMS administration and employee engagement surveys.
  • Lead change management initiatives, fostering smooth transitions during organizational changes.
  • Oversee the development and implementation of key talent programs, including performance management and career development.
  • Guide managers in conducting performance evaluations and setting clear expectations.

Talent Acquisition, Workforce Planning & Organizational Development

  • Oversee the execution of talent acquisition strategies, ensuring alignment with workforce planning and business needs.
  • Lead talent management and succession planning efforts to build leadership continuity and a strong internal pipeline.
  • Drive workforce planning by aligning hiring, retention, and mobility strategies with business objectives.
  • Lead organizational development initiatives to support team evolution, restructuring, and role clarity.
  • Analyze employee engagement trends and recommend proactive strategies to enhance culture and retention.

Requirements:

  • 8+ years of progressive HR and talent experience, with at least 3 years in a strategic HRBP or leadership role.
  • Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Organizational Development, or a related field; advanced degree or certifications (e.g., SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP) preferred.
  • Proven ability to drive talent strategy, workforce planning, and leadership development in a high-growth environment.
  • Experience designing and implementing learning and development programs, especially focused on managerial capability.
  • Demonstrated ability to manage direct reports, with a focus on employee experience and learning initiatives.
  • Experience overseeing performance review processes and employee engagement surveys, translating insights into strategic actions.
  • Strong leadership presence with the ability to advise, coach, and influence at all levels.
  • Data-driven approach with experience leveraging analytics to inform strategy and measure impact.
  • Excellent communication skills with the ability to translate complex HR topics into practical guidance.
  • Strong problem-solving skills and proactive mindset, with the ability to navigate ambiguity and prioritize competing demands.
  • Knowledge of HR systems (e.g., ADP Workforce Now, Greenhouse) and data tools (e.g., G-Suite, Excel).

Benefits & Perks

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, as well as 401k
  • Flexible Work Environment (3 days in office, 2 days work from home)
  • 4 weeks accrued Paid Time Off, 7 days accrued Sick Time, 11 paid holidays, and 4 Quarterly Wellness Days (where the whole team takes time off together to recharge)
  • Three months of paid Parental Leave (biological, adoptive, and foster parents are all eligible)
  • A paid sabbatical after four years of full-time service
  • Exclusive employee piercing and jewelry discounts (plus discounts for friends and family)

Studs is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing a work environment that fosters diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity without regard to race, color, gender, age, creed, sex, religion, national origin, disability (physical or mental), marital status, citizenship, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity and gender expression, or any other legally protected status. Studs considers qualified applicants with criminal histories. We comply with applicable state and local laws prohibiting discrimination in employment in every jurisdiction in which we operate. If you require an accommodation for the application process, please fill out this form.

Click here for the Studs Privacy Notice for California Applicants.

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