Head of HR (m/f/d) – full/ part time

CatalYm GmbH

Job Description

CatalYm GmbH is a clinical-stage biotechnology company dedicated to advancing cancer treatment through pioneering Visugromab, a recombinant antibody targeting the immunosuppressive cytokine GDF-15. Under physiological conditions, GDF-15 is essential in feto-maternal tolerance and protection of injured tissues. In cancer, GDF-15 is markedly overexpressed across various tumor types, hindering the body's ability to mount effective immune defenses against tumors and contributing to resistance to treatment. Visugromab is designed to neutralize the activity of GDF-15, reinvigorate anti-tumor immune responses, and enhance the activity of cancer immunotherapy. As part of our commitment to the further development of Visugromab, we are looking to hire a dedicated:

Head of HR (m/f/d) – full/ part time

The employee will play a key role in shaping and executing HR strategies to support the company's growth in Europe, with a particular focus on Germany. This role will serve as the Head of HR for Germany, providing strategic leadership for all HR-related activities in the region, to ensure effective collaboration and alignment with company goals. Reporting directly to the CFO, this role will lead HR initiatives across talent management, organizational development, and compliance, while working closely with the U.S. HR counterpart to align on shared objectives and best practices.


  1. HR Strategy and Collaboration:
    • Develop and execute HR strategies to support the company's European business goals.
    • Partner closely with the U.S. HR counterpart to align on company-wide HR initiatives, share best practices, and maintain consistency where appropriate.
    • Contribute to strategic planning and workforce development to support business growth.
  2. Talent Management and Development:
    • Lead the design and execution of talent acquisition and retention strategies to attract and develop top talent in Europe.
    • Partner with the U.S. HR counterpart to implement aligned performance management and talent development programs.
    • Continuously evaluate and refine talent management practices to ensure effectiveness.
  3. Compensation & Benefits:
    • Develop and manage competitive compensation and benefits strategies in compliance with German and EU regulations.
  4. Compliance & Legal:
    • Ensure HR policies and practices are fully compliant with German and EU labor laws and regulations.
    • Collaborate with legal counsel for employment-related matters as needed.
  5. Cultural and Organizational Development:
    • Foster a positive and inclusive company culture, promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion across teams.
  6. HR Operations & Technology:
    • Oversee efficient and accurate HR operations, including payroll and employee data management for European employees.
    • Collaborate on process improvements and systems integration in coordination with the U.S. HR counterpart.
  7. Stakeholder Management:
    • Serve as a trusted advisor to functional leaders on HR-related matters, providing strategic input on organizational design, workforce planning, and change management.

  1. Education:
    • Bachelor's degree in human resources, Business Administration, or a related field; master's degree or MBA is preferred.
  2. Experience:
    • A minimum of 5 years in a senior HR role, with proven success in HR functions preferably within life sciences, biotech, or tech industries in Germany.
    • Strong knowledge of German laws and HR practices.
    • Experience working with international teams and collaborating across regions, particularly with U.S. counterparts is a plus.
  3. Skills:
    • Excellent people management skills, with a track record of building high-performing teams.
    • Strong communication, negotiation and interpersonal skills in German and English.
    • Proficient in managing compensation, benefits, and compliance within Germany and the broader EU.
  4. Personal Attributes:
    • Adaptability: Able to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment, effectively managing ambiguity and change.
  5. Location Requirements:
    • Based in Germany, place of work: Munich

  • The opportunity to contribute to research directly impacting cancer therapy and clinical trials.
  • Opportunities to drive strategic HR initiatives in a fast-growing biotech company.
  • A collegial atmosphere characterized by a driven and supportive team.
  • Opportunity for flexible work schedules and remote work arrangements, within the framework of company policies and dependent on project requirements.
  • Competitive compensation.
  • A secure and permanent employment contract.
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