ForwardLine is a data-driven FinTech company dedicated to improving the financial health of America’s small businesses.  As an industry leader in direct lending, we strive to build long term, value-added relationships with small business owners who are oftentimes underserved by traditional banks.

A key objective for ForwardLine is to position itself as an “Employer of Choice” both in Los Angeles and across the broader fintech industry.  Over the past 12 months, the Company has experienced industry leading growth driven, in part, by a focus on developing a high-impact team culture.  As the team has doubled in size to 120+ FTE, and we begin the process of launching a second facility, maintaining and strengthening this culture is paramount to our continued success.  To support this effort, we are looking for a motivated Director of People & Culture that will add to our vision, culture, collaboration, passion, and innovation.  This is a unique and exciting opportunity for the right professional. 

Responsibilities

The Director of People & Culture will lead the development and implementation all of People & Culture functions, including talent acquisition, training and development, compensation and benefits, legal compliance, employee relations, and company culture.  As a member of the Company’s leadership team, the Director of People & Culture will partner cross-functionally to establish and implement strategic objectives.  The individual in this role will develop and coach managers and supervisors to build an engaged workforce, implement a culture consistent with the Company’s values and mission, and achieve the Company’s goals.  This position reports to the Chief Compliance Officer/General Counsel and has the opportunity to develop and expand the People & Culture team as the Company grows both within Woodland Hills and in a soon to be launched new facility.  Primary responsibilities include:

Leadership

• Provide People & Culture leadership and support to all business units and employees as needed
• Develop and lead the People & Culture team with the goal of being an effective and responsive internal service group that supports the Company’s growth plans and strategic objectives

Talent Acquisition

• Oversee and further develop a robust talent acquisition program to ensure the Company attracts and retains top talent so that it is equipped with the appropriate talent needed to achieve business goals
• Ensure job openings are successfully positioned and filled in a timely and strategic manner
• Participate in the interview and selection process
• Maximize the Company’s brand awareness and reputation through the talent acquisition process

Training & Development 

• Oversee all training and development needs for the Company and ensure that all programs align with Company strategy
• Develop and implement career development programs for all levels

Compensation and Benefits

• Manage the Company benefits strategy and enrollment process, including third-party vendor negotiation, plan selections, contribution strategies, 401K, and more
• Provide data-driven analysis regarding compensation and benefits across the Company to ensure the Company’s benefit programs meet the needs of both employees and the Company
• Ensure compensation, commission, and bonus programs are aligned with organizational objectives and pay-for-performance strategies

Performance Management

• Develop and manage a comprehensive performance management program that supports both the Company’s and the individual employees’ needs, and provides clear and timely feedback against defined goals

Employee Relations

• Serve as an internal coach to the Company’s management team and employees, as needed, on employee issues that affect performance and business relationships
• Ensure employee relations are handled timely, professionally, and accurately
• Manage job satisfaction pulse
• Oversee conflict resolution and manage workplace investigations

Company Culture

• Develop an employee-oriented culture consistent with the Company’s values and mission
• Promote a productive, enjoyable, and rewarding workplace for all employees
• Develop and implement programs, policies, and practices designed to enhance employee engagement, reduce turnover, and ensure legal compliance

General

• Responsible for Company People & Culture budget
• Provide input for annual budget and business plans
• Oversee employee record keeping, employee information systems, and all employee data
• Responsible for analyzing and reporting all HR metrics
• Oversee the payroll function and work with appropriate team members to ensure accurate and timely payroll processing and compliance with applicable wage and hour laws
• Assist as needed with contract negotiations with HR vendors ensuring that all business partners align with Company culture and values
• Implement and maintain a safe work environment
• Maintain current knowledge and understanding of regulations, industry trends, current practices, new developments, and applicable laws regarding human resources

Qualifications & Requirements

• Position requirements include:
• Minimum 7+ years’ experience in senior HR role, preferably in a fast-paced, high-growth environment
• Demonstrated HR leadership experience, with the ability to “rollup” your sleeves and get the job done
• Highly motivated professional with high EQ, experienced and adept at interacting at all levels of the organization
• Extensive knowledge of federal and California employment laws, rules, and regulations
• Ability and willingness to learn quickly and adapt to changes
• Strong oral and written communication, problem solving, and analytical skills and ability to make recommendations effectively regarding complex situations to senior management
• Strong leadership, project management, and organizational skills
• Strong computer skills (Word, Excel, Power Point)
• Demonstrated high level of reliability, flexibility, and dedication
• Detail oriented and strong ability to multi-task
• Ability to maintain calm disposition in a high stress environment
• Bachelor’s degree required

Compensation

Compensation level based on experience.  Competitive benefits package including health insurance, 401k, and other benefits