Head of People & Culture

About D-ploy

D-ploy is a fast-scaling European IT services and engineering solutions company operating in 40+ countries with over 700 professionals. We support leading global clients in highly regulated industries across managed services, consulting, and talent solutions.

As we continue to grow, we are strengthening our People & Culture function to ensure clarity, consistency, maturity, and operational excellence across our international teams. We are looking for a capable and hands-on People & Culture leader who can drive implementation, operational discipline, and team enablement in a fast-paced, international environment.

Role Overview

The Head of People & Culture is responsible for driving and ensuring the implementation of People & Culture projects, initiatives, and operational improvements across the Group.

This role focuses on tactical execution and delivery, ensuring that strategic priorities are translated into consistent, compliant, and effective actions across all HR areas. The role combines team leadership, project execution, and hands-on operational support where needed.

You will lead three key teams:

• Employee Services Team – responsible for HR operations and employee lifecycle management
• HR Business Partner Team – supporting middle and senior management and the Group’s Delivery organization
• External Workforce Team – overseeing the administration and governance of external workers

The ideal candidate is a structured and pragmatic HR professional who takes ownership, drives delivery, and supports the team both strategically and operationally. 

Key Responsibilities

Execution & Delivery

• Drive and oversee the execution of People & Culture projects and initiatives defined by the Chief Compliance Officer and senior leadership.
• Ensure consistent implementation of policies, processes, and frameworks across all countries and entities.
• Monitor project progress, manage risks, and ensure timely and high-quality delivery.
• Step into day-to-day HR operations when required to support the team and maintain service continuity.

Operational Leadership

• Lead and coordinate the Employee Services, HR Business Partner, and External Workforce teams.
• Ensure smooth and compliant HR operations across the employee lifecycle (onboarding, changes, exits, etc.).
• Provide operational and procedural guidance to the team, resolving escalated or complex cases.
• Build clear accountability, collaboration, and communication across all HR areas.

Structure, Compliance & Governance

• Maintain and strengthen HR documentation, policies, and audit readiness.
• Ensure all HR activities comply with local employment laws and internal governance standards.
• Support the rollout and maintenance of HR systems and ensure data accuracy and integrity.
• Drive standardization, automation and process improvement across international operations.

People Support & Enablement

• Act as a partner and escalation point for HR Business Partners and HR Generalists, ensuring consistent support for managers and teams.
• Support middle and senior management and the Group’s Delivery organization in people management, employee relations, and workforce planning.
• Promote fairness, compliance, and professionalism in all employee matters.
• Contribute to engagement, development, and well-being initiatives that are scalable and pragmatic.

Collaboration & Communication

• Work closely with the Chief Compliance Officer, senior leadership, and other functions (Finance, Delivery, Resource Management) to ensure alignment and execution of People & Culture priorities.
• Provide clear communication and reporting on progress, risks, and improvement opportunities.
• Foster collaboration within the People & Culture function and ensure a service-oriented approach across teams.

Requirements

• Proven HR leadership experience in a multi-country, service-oriented, or technology-driven organization.
• Strong understanding of employment law, compliance, and multi-jurisdictional HR operations.
• Demonstrated ability to execute HR projects, implement standardized processes, and build operational maturity.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills with the ability to guide and support managers tactically and constructively.
• Balanced, calm, and professional approach in managing sensitive or complex topics.
• Fluent in English (German or another European language is an advantage).
• Valid criminal record extract (not older than 3 months) required.

What We Offer

• A key role driving the operational excellence of the People & Culture function across 40+ countries.
• Hands-on leadership responsibility with direct impact on HR delivery and employee experience.
• Hybrid working model with strong international collaboration.
• Supportive environment with opportunities for growth and professional development.

Why Join D-ploy

This is a pivotal opportunity to shape and operationalize the People & Culture function of a fast-growing international company. You will lead a capable team, ensure smooth implementation of key initiatives, and help build the solid HR foundations that enable our people and business to thrive at scale.

Benefits

• Flexible working conditions

• Fishing for Friends program – our referral program
• Further development and professional advancement
• Friendly and international working environment

Is IT in your DNA?