Director of People at VERVE – Los Angeles, California

Description:

About Verve

verve (vu^rv)a) enthusiasm in literary or artistic workb) energy in the expression of ideasc) aptitude; talentVerve is a premier talent agency providing global representation for clients across film, television, publishing, digital, theatre, and books-to-screen.Founded in 2010, the agency prides itself on discovering the most exciting new voices in entertainment and guiding the careers of some of the most sought-after storytellers in the world. Verve clients have been recognized by the Academy Awards, Emmy Awards, Grammy Awards, Tony Awards and the Pulitzer Prize. Continually disrupting an industry with its innovation and ability to be reflective of an everchanging landscape, Verve’s client-first approach provides unparalleled service, influence and career-building with a passion matched only by that of their clients.
Role OverviewVerve is seeking an experienced, hands-on Director of People to lead and scale our people operations while fostering a high-performing, inclusive, and culture-forward workplace. This role will serve as a strategic partner to leadership while remaining deeply involved in day-to-day HR execution.The ideal candidate brings strong HR fundamentals, sound judgment, and a collaborative, solutions-oriented approach, with experience supporting fast-paced, creative, or professional services organizations. Level (Manager vs. Director) will be determined based on experience and scope.
Key ResponsibilitiesPeople Strategy & Leadership

• Partner with senior leadership to develop and execute people strategies aligned with business goals and company culture.
• Serve as a trusted advisor on organizational design, workforce planning, and people-related decision-making.
• Champion company values and initiatives related to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging.

Employee Relations & Culture

• Manage and oversee employee relations matters, including performance management, conflict resolution, investigations, and disciplinary actions.
• Provide thoughtful, compliant, and empathetic guidance to employees and managers.
• Model and reinforce Verve’s cultural values and help foster a respectful, inclusive, and engaging workplace.

Talent Management & Development

• Oversee recruiting, onboarding, and retention efforts across agents, executives, assistants, and support staff.
• Support performance review cycles, succession planning, peer recognition, and year-end planning.
• Partner with leadership to build career paths, learning opportunities, and leadership development initiatives.

HR Operations & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local employment laws, with a strong emphasis on California labor law.
• Own HR policies, procedures, and employee handbook updates.
• Oversee or coordinate compensation, benefits, payroll, and HR systems (Paylocity experience a plus).
• Work with external legal counsel as needed on employment-related matters.

Change Management & Growth

• Support organizational change during periods of growth, restructuring, or operational evolution.
• Use data, insights, and employee feedback to improve people programs and processes.
• Help scale HR infrastructure to meet the needs of a growing agency.

Requirements:

Qualifications

Required

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent practical experience.
• Strong knowledge of HR fundamentals, employee relations, and compliance.
• Excellent judgment, discretion, and ability to handle sensitive matters.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills across all levels of an organization.

Preferred

• Experience in entertainment, media, professional services, or creative industries.
• Deep familiarity with California employment law.
• Hands-on mindset with the ability to balance strategic thinking and execution.