VP, People & Culture

The VP, People & Culture at SoundCloud plays a pivotal role in driving business strategies and enhancing workplace culture. Responsibilities include collaborating with other People leaders to foster an inclusive work environment, providing coaching to leadership on team dynamics, managing complex employee relations matters, and developing strategies that align with organizational goals. This position demands creativity and thought partnership to implement impactful people practices across the US.

Candidates for the VP, People & Culture position at SoundCloud should have a minimum of 10 years of HR experience, specifically in leadership roles. A strategic mindset coupled with hands-on operational experience is essential. Strong relationship-building skills, a deep understanding of employee relations, and knowledge of US labor laws are critical. Being passionate about the music industry and SoundCloud’s mission is a big plus!

The VP, People & Culture significantly influences SoundCloud's culture by advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion. This role involves implementing cultural initiatives that foster collaboration and employee engagement. By guiding managers in organizational development and team performance, the VP ensures that the SoundCloud culture resonates through every layer of the organization, making it a welcoming space for all employees.

At SoundCloud, the VP, People & Culture can expect a competitive salary between $210,000 - $240,000, alongside a generous total rewards program. Benefits include comprehensive health plans, a robust 401k program, professional development allowances, and a unique Creativity and Wellness benefit. Employees also enjoy flexible vacation policies, extensive paid parental leave, and various snacks and meals when in office, making this role not just rewarding professionally but personally fulfilling as well.

SoundCloud is dedicated to fostering a flexible and inclusive work culture. With offices in major cities like New York and Los Angeles, employees can connect in person while also enjoying the benefits of remote work. SoundCloud emphasizes diversity and employee empowerment, creating an environment for growth, mentorship, and collaboration. For a VP, People & Culture, this presents a unique opportunity to drive impactful change in an organization deeply committed to nurturing talent and creativity.

To enhance workplace culture as the VP, People & Culture, I would begin by assessing the current state of culture through employee feedback and engagement metrics. Based on that analysis, I would implement inclusive programs that foster collaboration, recognition, and career development. Leveraging diversity resource groups and promoting open communication would also be key strategies to ensure every employee feels valued.

In handling a complex employee relations issue, I would first gather all relevant facts by speaking with those directly involved. Understanding different perspectives is critical. Then, I would consult HR policies while also considering individual circumstances. Open communication with all parties would be essential to reaching a resolution that aligns with SoundCloud's values while ensuring fairness and transparency.

Strategic thinking is paramount in HR leadership because it enables leaders to foresee and mitigate potential challenges while aligning people initiatives with organizational goals. It involves forecasting workforce needs and leveraging data to inform people practices that support both employee engagement and business strategy at SoundCloud.

In a previous role, I initiated an inclusion strategy that involved forming employee resource groups and hosting cultural competency workshops. By creating space for diverse voices and encouraging collaboration, we increased employee engagement and retention rates. This corresponds with SoundCloud’s commitment to diversity, where fostering collaboration and respect is a priority.

To measure the success of people initiatives, I would utilize key performance indicators such as employee engagement surveys, retention rates, and productivity metrics. Additionally, I'll conduct regular assessments of feedback to iterate on programs and ensure they align with the needs of employees and the mission of SoundCloud.

I have extensive experience leading remote teams, particularly during the transition to a hybrid workplace. This involved implementing structured communication practices, leveraging technology for collaboration, and fostering a strong team culture through regular check-ins and team-building activities. These experiences have prepared me to effectively oversee SoundCloud’s diverse and geographically distributed workforce.

My approach to change management involves clear communication, stakeholder involvement, and phased implementation. At SoundCloud, I would ensure all employee voices are heard when navigating changes, provide proper training, and offer support throughout the transition. This strategy helps reduce resistance and fosters a positive environment during times of change.

My approach to talent acquisition is data-driven and focused on aligning hiring practices with SoundCloud's culture. I believe in building a diverse candidate pipeline through various channels and ensuring a bias-free selection process. Engagement with potential hires can be enhanced by showcasing our values and the unique opportunities within the organization.

My leadership style is collaborative and empowering. I strive to foster an environment where team members feel confident in sharing their ideas and feedback. At SoundCloud, this leadership style would not only enhance team performance but also align with the culture of creativity and inclusion that we aim to promote.

I’m drawn to the role of VP, People & Culture at SoundCloud because of the company's commitment to artist empowerment and innovation in the music industry. I believe that a strong workplace culture is essential to supporting this mission and am excited about the opportunity to drive meaningful change and cultivate a diverse, inclusive environment at such a forward-thinking organization.