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Lead HR Business Partner - job 1 of 2

About Upstart

Upstart is the leading AI lending marketplace partnering with banks and credit unions to expand access to affordable credit. By leveraging Upstart's AI marketplace, Upstart-powered banks and credit unions can have higher approval rates and lower loss rates across races, ages, and genders, while simultaneously delivering the exceptional digital-first lending experience their customers demand. More than 80% of borrowers are approved instantly, with zero documentation to upload.

Upstart is a digital-first company, which means that most Upstarters live and work anywhere in the United States. However, we also have offices in San Mateo, California; Columbus, Ohio; and Austin, Texas.

Most Upstarters join us because they connect with our mission of enabling access to effortless credit based on true risk. If you are energized by the impact you can make at Upstart, we’d love to hear from you!

The Team

You will be joining an organization with engaged founders and leaders, strong values (practiced daily!) and operational rigor and discipline. Come help us build the culture and the processes that will enable continued success for our employees and borrowers.

As the Lead HR Business Partner you will be responsible for and lead the day-to-day People support to a critical talent population working to help Upstart scale. From driving organizational transformation, to front line manager coaching, to Leadership team effectiveness, to performance cycles and cultural initiatives, you will partner closely with key members of the Upstart leadership team to help them uplevel their functions and the employee experience. You will also be a key member of our People org, participating in or leading company-wide People programs that could include initiatives in performance and talent management, employee engagement, system implementation, diversity and inclusion, development and more.

 

Position location This role is available in the following locations: Remote

Time zone requirements Most of our leadership team operates on the West Coast time zone.

Travel requirements This team has regular onsite collaboration sessions. These occur a maximum of 3 days per quarter primarily in the San Mateo office. If you need to travel to make these meetups, Upstart will cover all travel related expenses.

 

How you’ll make an impact:

  • Strategic advisor: Serve as an influential thought partner to executives as they scale their organizations and support them in executing their vision, influencing them to consider alternate perspectives where appropriate. From org design, to talent development, to rewards and recognition, to fostering a high performance culture, you will act as a trusted coach and driver.
  • Manager coach: Support managers in your client group to help them thrive in their roles and careers at Upstart; coaching them through scenarios ranging from managing low performance to developing high performers.
  • Employee relations: Engage with employees to understand their needs, help resolve their conflicts, and unblock their challenges enabling them to do their best work at Upstart.
  • Performance management: Partner with business leaders to identify top talent and help them grow with Upstart; and coach managers through low performance management to maintain our high performance bar.
  • Project and program support: Implement and support core People programs, processes and initiatives such as performance review cycles, diversity and inclusion, compensation, employee development, and succession planning.
  • Solve problems: Diagnose issues, design solutions and drive them to resolution by using your subject matter expertise and excellent judgement, liaising between the People team and the business to lead change for the organization.

 

What we’re looking for: 

Minimum qualifications:

  • BA/BS degree required
  • 8+ years of HR experience with at least 5+ years as an HR Business Partner supporting VP+ clients
  • Strong business acumen—demonstrated ability to learn business objectives quickly, build rapport with executives at a rapid clip, influencing talent and org decisions that impact business outcomes
  • Exceptional communication skills and strong analytical aptitude - get ready to work with data and spreadsheets!
  • Strong project management skills and the ability to succeed in a fast paced environment
  • A track record of strong work ethic, integrity, sound judgment, first-principled thinking and personal accountability

Preferred qualifications:

  • Additional HR certifications and degrees are a plus
  • Experience working in the Tech industry

What you'll love: 

  • Competitive Compensation (base + bonus & equity)
  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with Health Savings Account contributions from Upstart 
  • 401(k) with 100% company match up to $4,500 and immediate vesting and after-tax savings
  • Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP)
  • Life and disability insurance
  • Generous holiday, vacation, sick and safety leave  
  • Supportive parental, family care, and military leave programs
  • Annual wellness, technology & ergonomic reimbursement programs
  • Social activities including team events and onsites, all-company updates, employee resource groups (ERGs), and other interest groups such as book clubs, fitness, investing, and volunteering
  • Catered lunches + snacks & drinks when working in offices

 

#LI-REMOTE

#LI-MidSenior 

At Upstart, your base pay is one part of your total compensation package.  The anticipated base salary for this position is expected to be within the below range. Your actual base pay will depend on your geographic location–with our “digital first” philosophy, Upstart uses compensation regions that vary depending on location. Individual pay is also determined by job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

In addition, Upstart provides employees with target bonuses, equity compensation, and generous benefits packages (including medical, dental, vision, and 401k).

United States | Remote - Anticipated Base Salary Range
$161,200$223,100 USD

Upstart is a proud Equal Opportunity Employer. We are dedicated to ensuring that underrepresented classes receive better access to affordable credit, and are just as committed to embracing diversity and inclusion in our hiring practices. We celebrate all cultures, backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, and know that we can only become better together. 

If you require reasonable accommodation in completing an application, interviewing, completing any pre-employment testing, or otherwise participating in the employee selection process, please email candidate_accommodations@upstart.com

https://www.upstart.com/candidate_privacy_policy

Average salary estimate

$192150 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$161200K
$223100K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Lead HR Business Partner, Upstart

Upstart is on the lookout for a fantastic Lead HR Business Partner to join our dynamic team! As the leading AI lending marketplace, we’re committed to enhancing access to affordable credit and we need a strategic partner who can help us build a thriving employee culture that aligns with our mission. In this fully remote role, you'll be working with talented individuals across the United States and collaborating closely with our leadership team to drive organizational transformation. Your responsibilities will include coaching managers, shaping performance management processes, and implementing key people programs like diversity and inclusion initiatives. With at least 8 years of HR experience under your belt, and a knack for influencing change, you’ll help us navigate challenges and enhance employee engagement. If you love the idea of being a trusted advisor and support system that plays a crucial role in talent management and the overall people experience, we want to hear from you! Join us in making a significant impact at Upstart where we believe that a digital-first approach means fostering a community that values every person's contribution. Let’s make lending better together!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Lead HR Business Partner Role at Upstart
What are the primary responsibilities of a Lead HR Business Partner at Upstart?

As a Lead HR Business Partner at Upstart, your primary responsibilities include serving as a strategic advisor to executives, coaching managers to enhance their performance management skills, managing employee relations, and driving key organizational initiatives such as talent management and diversity programs. You'll actively participate in designing solutions to issues while ensuring you're aligned with our company's vision.

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What qualifications are needed for the Lead HR Business Partner position at Upstart?

To qualify for the Lead HR Business Partner position at Upstart, candidates must possess a BA/BS degree along with a minimum of 8 years of HR experience, with at least 5 years specifically as an HR Business Partner supporting senior leadership. Excellent communication skills, strong project management abilities, and a proven business acumen are essential to thrive in this role.

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What does the culture look like at Upstart for a Lead HR Business Partner?

The culture at Upstart is characterized by engagement, strong values, and operational rigor. As a Lead HR Business Partner, you will foster a supportive environment focused on continuous improvement, collaboration, and respect. Working remotely, you'll also connect with team members during occasional onsite meetings, fostering relationships within a culture of inclusivity and innovation.

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How does Upstart support professional development for Lead HR Business Partners?

Upstart is committed to professional development for its employees, including Lead HR Business Partners, by offering opportunities for learning and growth through company-wide initiatives, training programs, and potential access to HR certifications. You’ll have the chance to strengthen your skills and expand your knowledge, helping you to serve your client groups effectively.

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What makes the Lead HR Business Partner role at Upstart different from other HR positions?

The Lead HR Business Partner role at Upstart stands out due to its strategic nature and the direct impact it has on driving organizational change. You will partner closely with executives to influence decisions and drive talent initiatives in a fast-paced technology environment, making it a vital position that shapes the company’s HR landscape.

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Common Interview Questions for Lead HR Business Partner
Can you describe your experience as an HR Business Partner in supporting senior executives?

When answering this question, share specific examples of how you've partnered with executives to align HR practices with business goals. Highlight your communication, consulting, and advisory skills, and discuss instances where your contributions directly led to improved performance or cultural changes within the organization.

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How do you approach performance management discussions at the leadership level?

A great way to answer this question is by outlining your tactical approach, such as preparing data on performance trends, understanding employee motivations, and facilitating open discussions. Emphasize your ability to balance sensitivity with honesty, ensuring that the conversation drives accountability and encourages growth.

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What strategies have you used to enhance employee engagement in previous roles?

Discuss specific strategies that worked for you, such as implementing feedback systems, encouraging open communication channels, or spearheading recognition programs. Share how these initiatives led to measurable improvements in engagement and morale.

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Can you provide an example of how you've resolved a complex employee relations issue?

In your response, outline a specific situation, the actions you took to mediate and resolve the issue, and the outcomes of your intervention. Make sure to convey your conflict resolution skills and your understanding of fair employment practices.

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What role do you see technology playing in HR operations?

Discuss your views on how technology can streamline HR functions, improve data analytics for decision-making, and enhance employee experience. Share examples of technology tools you've successfully implemented to increase efficiency or improve engagement.

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How do you plan and implement diversity and inclusion initiatives?

Talk about your approach to developing a D&I strategy, including conducting needs assessments, engaging stakeholders, and measuring success through specific metrics. Illustrate your commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace culture.

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What makes a strong partnership between HR and business leaders?

A strong partnership is characterized by mutual trust, clear communication, and alignment on goals. Emphasize how you actively seek to understand the business's initiatives and challenges, positioning HR as a strategic partner while supporting leaders with the right tools and resources.

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Describe your experience with workforce planning and management.

Share your experience in assessing workforce needs, understanding talent gaps, and developing strategies to meet organizational goals. Provide examples of successful workforce initiatives you've led that resulted in improved organizational effectiveness.

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What challenges do you foresee in the Lead HR Business Partner role at Upstart, and how would you tackle them?

Identify key challenges such as maintaining employee engagement in a remote setup or managing rapid organizational scaling. Discuss your proactive strategies, such as regular check-ins, leveraging data for insights, and fostering a culture of transparency and support.

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How do you stay updated on HR trends and best practices?

Express your commitment to continuous learning by mentioning professional HR organizations you belong to, resources you regularly consult, and your attendance at industry conferences or seminars. Highlight how this ongoing learning enables you to bring fresh ideas and insights to your HR role.

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Most Upstarters join us because they connect with our mission of enabling access to effortless credit based on true risk. If you are energized by the impact you can make at Upstart, we would love to hear from you!

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April 3, 2025

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