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The Exploration Company

People and Business Operations Manager

The Exploration Company, Houston, TX


Here at The Exploration Company, we are developing, producing, and operating Nyx, a modular and reusable space orbital vehicle that can eventually be refuelled in orbit and that can carry cargo - and potentially humans in the longer run.

In your role as a People and Business Operations Manager, you will integrate into a vibrant and global team, working in tandem with Talent Acquisition, Legal, and Finance, as well as reporting directly to the Chief Operating Officer (COO). Your duties will expand to include the oversight of business operations alongside your HR responsibilities. You will manage monthly payroll operations and provide essential HR administrative support to our team members and employees. Additionally, you will develop and refine personnel processes to ensure legal compliance, foster an excellent employee experience, and reinforce a constructive company culture. Another crucial aspect of your role will be delivering precise reporting and analysis of employee data. While your primary focus will be on the U.S. branch of The Exploration Company, you will also be involved in global operations.

Key Responsibilities
  • Oversee and coordinate monthly payroll operations for the U.S. branch, considering the full spectrum of the employee lifecycle (e.g., payroll registration, updates to personal and employment data, management of time offs and absences)
  • Serve as the primary point of contact for our U.S.-based employees for any HR and business operational inquiries including employee benefit topics
  • Lead people and business operations-related projects, striving for process enhancements and the integration of automation (e.g., onboarding facilitation, maintaining employee records, supporting ESG shareholder reporting, and managing the administration and issuance of contracts, documents, and amendments)
  • Ensure ongoing optimization of our HRIS (Personio) features and business operation systems
  • Provide support for the day-to-day operations of the People and Business Operations Departments; Support the Vice President, US Operations in executing the goals of the US subsidiary
  • Formulate and revise HR policies, procedures, and business operational guidelines
  • Regularly review changes in U.S. legislation, ensuring compliance with GDPR, labor laws, and business regulations
  • Monitor and assess working conditions, employee well-being, engagement, and turnover rates, with an eye on business impact
  • Take on leadership roles in trusted People, Culture, and Business Operations local projects and initiatives
  • Assist in the recruitment process of interns and business operations staff
What we would love to see from you
  • A minimum of 2 years of experience in an HR / People Operations Manager, Admin, Generalist, or Business Operations role within a U.S. company
  • Proficiency in managing and coordinating monthly payroll operations across the U.S.
  • In-depth knowledge of U.S. labor law, taxation, and social security systems, especially as they pertain to payroll and business operations
  • Proven experience in visa and work permit administration, particularly within the U.S.
  • Advanced skills in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and familiarity with business operation tools
  • Experience with Personio or other HRIS, as well as business operations systems, is highly advantageous
  • Fluent in English, with strong communication skills; proficiency in French, German, or Italian is a plus

Why you should join us!

What makes us special here at The Exploration Company and why we think you will enjoy working here is:
  • We're Agile - we make decisions fast whilst keeping our goals and systems in mind
  • We're Open and Collaborative - we are transparent about risks and obstacles, so that we can cooperate to overcome them
  • We have a lot of Fun - we refuel our energy knowing we are democratising space. It's a wonderful and rare opportunity, are YOU up for the challenge?

We'd love to hear from you if you wish to be a part of our journey. Please submit your CV now for immediate consideration and we will be in touch shortly.

The Exploration Company is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, colour, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status or disability status. Relocation assistance is provided for those willing to relocate including visa sponsorship where applicable.