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Sakana AI is a leading AI research company with ~150 employees, focused on implementing cutting-edge AI research into Japan's industrial and public sectors. The organization is in a rapid growth phase and seeks a Head of Talent Management to design and operate talent management systems for the Applied Team.
In this role, you will lead the design and operation of performance evaluation, compensation, career development, and engagement frameworks. You'll work closely with executive leadership and team leads to ensure systems remain aligned with the company's evolving needs and culture. Key responsibilities include:
• Design and operate performance evaluation and goal-management systems that ensure fairness and stakeholder buy-in
• Develop and manage compensation structures (grading, salary ranges, adjustment processes) and align them with evaluation systems
• Create and execute career development and training programs to support individual growth
• Partner with leadership and Applied Team leads to develop and drive talent strategy
• Design engagement and retention initiatives, continuously improving based on data
• Lead talent reviews and succession planning for key positions
You must have 5+ years of HR/talent management experience in corporate or consulting environments, with expertise in evaluation systems, compensation design, organizational development, or related areas. You should have demonstrated success designing and operating systems while engaging both leadership and frontline teams. You thrive in fast-moving, ambiguous environments and can independently define problems and drive progress.
Nice-to-have qualifications include startup or hypergrowth experience, leading compensation or grading system redesigns, English communication ability (the environment is primarily Japanese but multilingual), and interest in applying generative AI tools to HR work.
The company operates on a hybrid model with flex-time and discretionary work arrangements. Benefits include comprehensive social insurance, two-day weekends, paid leave, and commute allowances. Note: Sakana AI works with the Japanese government, including on defense-related projects; applicants should review the company's defense policy before applying.
