VP of People (ClimateTech / Clean Energy)
Directs organizational strategy and human capital development within the renewable energy and climate sectors.
Overview
This role functions as a strategic partner to the executive team, focusing on the human elements required to solve complex planetary challenges. The daily rhythm alternates between high-level workforce planning and hands-on crisis management within rapidly shifting regulatory environments. Success in this career requires balancing the urgent need for technical talent in fields like carbon capture or grid software with the long-term goal of building a resilient, mission-aligned corporate culture.
Professionals in this field often navigate the friction between traditional industrial operations and the fast-paced agility of technology startups. They spend significant time designing compensation structures that remain competitive with Big Tech while reflecting the resource constraints of the hardware-heavy energy sector. Those who thrive are typically analytical, emotionally intelligent, and deeply committed to the operational requirements of the green transition.
Responsibilities
- Architect the global talent acquisition strategy to secure specialized engineering and sustainability expertise.
- Design and implement performance management frameworks that align individual goals with decarbonization targets.
- Lead organizational design initiatives to support international expansion and project-based scaling.
- Govern corporate culture initiatives to maintain high employee retention in a competitive labor market.
- Oversee total rewards programs including equity structures and mission-aligned benefits packages.
- Ensure compliance with global labor laws and environmental health and safety regulations across diverse jurisdictions.
- Report to the Board of Directors on workforce diversity, equity, and inclusion metrics.
Qualifications
- Minimum of ten years of progressive leadership experience in human resources or people operations.
- Proven track record of scaling technology organizations from early stage to late-stage growth.
- In-depth knowledge of executive compensation and equity plan administration.
- Demonstrated expertise in strategic workforce planning for technical and hardware-oriented teams.
- Bachelor degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.
Nice to have
- Experience working within the renewable energy, circular economy, or environmental technology sectors.
- Professional certification such as SPHR, SHRM-SCP, or an equivalent global accreditation.
- Advanced degree in Organizational Development or an MBA.
- Experience managing human resources for a publicly traded company or through an IPO.
Work environment
- Work is typically performed in a hybrid office setting with occasional visits to field sites or manufacturing facilities.
- Collaboration occurs across diverse time zones requiring a high degree of digital proficiency and flexible scheduling.
- The culture is characterized by a high-stakes, mission-driven atmosphere focused on rapid innovation and impact.
- Frequent use of advanced Human Resource Information Systems and data analytics platforms is standard.
Benefits & growth
- Compensation often includes significant equity grants or stock options tied to the company's long-term valuation.
- Career progression typically leads to Chief People Officer or Chief Operating Officer positions.
- Professional development focuses on executive leadership coaching and sustainability reporting standards.
- Performance bonuses are frequently linked to both financial milestones and specific environmental impact goals.
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