At Pathos, we’re reimagining what’s possible in oncology drug development.

Founded by the team that built and scaled Tempus Labs, home to the world’s largest library of clinical and molecular data, Pathos is on a mission to revolutionize precision medicine in cancer. We’re using AI and machine learning not as buzzwords, but as fundamental tools to understand biology, identify precise disease drivers, and match patients to the therapies they truly need.

Our vision is bold: to create a new model for drug discovery and development, one rooted in deep data, integrated science, and rapid translation. We’re not building another pharma company, we’re building a platform to find better medicines, faster, and to get them to the right patients at the right time.

We’ve already begun assembling a portfolio of clinical-stage oncology assets, and we’re applying our technology to select the right indications, optimize clinical design, and increase the probability of success, from bench to bedside.

We believe that the current system moves too slowly, and too many patients are still waiting. That’s why we’re here. That’s why Pathos exists.

If you’re driven by purpose, excited by complexity, and eager to work alongside brilliant, kind, and mission-aligned teammates, we’d love to meet you.

We’re headquartered in New York City, with a distributed team across the U.S., and operate with the focus and agility of a startup while building with the scale and ambition of something much bigger.

Come help us build it.

About the role

We're looking for a Director of People Operations to lead our people strategy and operational backbone from the ground up. This is a unique opportunity to build the people function at a company that’s scaling fast, and doing work that matters deeply. 

You’ll design the systems that support our team, shape how we grow, and foster a workplace that’s as innovative and mission-driven as the therapies we’re building. From onboarding to offboarding, compensation strategy to culture building, you’ll be the architect of how Pathos takes care of its people.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives in fast-paced, high-growth environments, who’s both a strategic thinker and a hands-on builder, and who believes people ops is one of the most powerful levers for business and mission success

Key Responsibilities

Operations

• Design and execute seamless onboarding experiences that set up new hires and ensures long term success
• Lead annual compensation reviews, conduct market benchmarking studies, and ensure pay equity across the organization
• Oversee people data systems, maintain accurate employee records, and generate insights through people analytics
• Continuously improve HR processes for efficiency and employee satisfaction
• Design and implement performance review cycles, goal-setting frameworks, and career development pathways

Employee Relations

• Serve as a trusted advisor and advocate for employees at all levels
• Partner with leadership to strengthen company culture and employee engagement initiatives
• Facilitate difficult conversations and provide coaching to managers on people-related challenges
• Handle employee complaints, grievances, and workplace conflicts with empathy and professionalism

Policy Development & Strategic Planning

• Develop, update, and communicate company policies that reflect our values and support business objectives
• Collaborate with leadership on people strategy, workforce planning, and organizational design
• Optimize benefit strategy to attract and retain top talent
• Lead organizational changes and help employees navigate transitions effectively

Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure adherence to federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations
• Maintain proper documentation for all people-related processes and decisions
• Identify and mitigate people-related risks before they become issues
• Prepare for and manage employment-related audits and investigations
• Ensure managers receive proper training on compliance topics and best practices

What We're Looking For

Experience

• 7+ years of progressive HR experience with at least 3 years in a leadership role
• Experience building HR functions from the ground up in a startup or high-growth environment
• Experience in tech and/or life sciences preferred

Skills

• Ability to tie people strategy to business outcomes
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with ability to build trust at all levels
• Experience with modern HR tech stack (ATS, HRIS, performance management tools), including sourcing and implementing/replacing systems
• Thrives in ambiguity in a fast-paced environment

What We Offer

• Competitive salary and equity package
• Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
• Flexible PTO and remote work options
• Professional development budget
• Opportunity to build something from scratch and have massive impact
• Collaborative, innovative work environment