Deputy Director, People Operations

YLabs is a leading global design and research organization focused on amplifying youth power, agency, and opportunity through inclusive digital products and services. They partner with young people to co-create solutions that address health, economic opportunity, and climate resilience, with headquarters in Rwanda and the USA, working in 18 countries.

Location: Remote (global, with a preference for Africa)

Salary: $50,000–$61,818 USD annually

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a global pay equity system and salary bands based on regional and national benchmarks.
• Evolve YLabs' internal leveling framework to match industry standards and organizational growth, and enhance performance management and feedback culture.
• Establish international recruitment strategies and policies for employees and contractors.
• Map, plan, and guide the development of policies and protocols for global operations, ensuring compliance and operational scalability.
• Design YLabs' global compliance strategy, advising on country-level engagement models and ensuring compliance across all geographies.
• Supervise, mentor, and develop the HR & Operations team.
• Oversee core HR operations including payroll, benefits, HRIS, and personnel matters.
• Shape learning and development strategies, including employee progression and succession planning.
• Guide employee experience initiatives such as wellness, engagement, and feedback programs.

Requirements

• 10+ years of progressive experience in people operations, HR, or talent management, including senior or leadership roles.
• Experience leading people operations and compliance at an INGO, especially with a substantial footprint in Africa.
• Experience designing or implementing compensation structures, salary bands, or pay frameworks across multiple countries.
• Knowledge of international employment compliance and multi-country employment models.
• Experience supervising and developing staff across distributed, multicultural teams.
• Experience crafting policies for an INGO.
• Fluency in written and spoken English.

Benefits

• Full-time position with benefits.
• Competitive salary based on regional benchmarks.
• Opportunity to lead global HR and operations for a growing organization.

Additional Information

• This is a remote, full-time role with an initial 12-month contract.
• Application process involves submitting through the YLabs careers page.
• All applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
• Offers are conditional on background checks and criminal record clearances.
• YLabs promotes equity, justice, and belonging, encouraging diverse applicants.