Manager, HR Operations - job 1 of 2

The Manager, HR Operations at Vaxcyte has a rich set of responsibilities including overseeing processes related to the employment life cycle, managing data security, and ensuring alignment with compliance requirements. This role also includes serving as the Workday subject matter expert, leading project initiatives, onboarding, offboarding, and managing internal HR systems. Your ability to analyze and report on HR metrics will play a significant role in shaping our company’s strategic decisions.

To apply for the Manager, HR Operations position at Vaxcyte, candidates should hold a Bachelor’s degree in human resources or a related field. A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience coupled with at least 1 year of Workday expertise is essential. In addition, strong analytical abilities, excellent communication skills, and previous supervisory experience are highly desirable. Candidates should also exhibit proficiency in advanced Excel functions and demonstrate a leadership mindset.

The Manager, HR Operations plays a vital role in Vaxcyte’s mission by ensuring that the HR processes support our innovative workforce in creating vaccines. By managing processes efficiently, the Manager facilitates a productive environment where employees can thrive, ultimately contributing to Vaxcyte’s goals of eradicating bacterial diseases and improving public health. This position ensures that HR operations are effective and aligned with the company's mission.

At Vaxcyte, the HR team is designed to facilitate collaboration and shared best practices. The Manager, HR Operations will report to the Vice President, Total Rewards and will work closely with colleagues across various departments, including Finance and IT. This organizational structure fosters an inclusive environment where team members can lead initiatives that enhance our human resources capabilities, ultimately supporting Vaxcyte’s overarching mission.

Key skills for the Manager, HR Operations role at Vaxcyte include strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, advanced proficiency in Excel, and excellent leadership capabilities. Effective communication with stakeholders across the organization is also crucial. The ability to manage multiple projects, adapt to dynamic work conditions, and maintain meticulous attention to detail are essential for success in this role.

When answering this question, highlight your hands-on experience with Workday, specifying any configurations or integrations you have managed. Discuss how you have led testing and promotions of new releases and ensured data integrity within the system. Providing tangible examples of your contributions will demonstrate your expertise.

In your response, outline a well-defined strategy for both onboarding and offboarding employees. Discuss how you ensure a seamless transition through documentation, communication, and process automation. Emphasize the importance of gathering feedback during offboarding to improve future experiences.

Managing HR compliance and data security is critical. Discuss your approach to regularly reviewing compliance policies, conducting audits, and ensuring data handling aligns with privacy regulations. Mention any specific tools or systems you have utilized to safeguard employee information.

Data analytics is essential in HR operations. Explain how you leverage data to identify trends, make informed decisions, and report on key metrics. Share specific instances where data insights influenced strategic initiatives within your previous roles.

Your answer should reflect on teamwork and collaboration skills. Discuss your experience in working with various departments, how you ensure clear communication and alignment on project goals, and your methods for resolving conflicts or differing priorities.

Share a concrete example of a challenge, such as managing operational changes or system issues. Explain the actions you took to address it, what you learned from the experience, and how it improved the HR operations overall.

A positive workplace culture is built on inclusivity and respect. Discuss your strategies for promoting open communication, recognizing employee contributions, and fostering a team-oriented environment. Share specific actions you’ve taken in past roles to enhance workplace morale.

Talk about your processes for developing and analyzing HR metrics. Highlight the importance of accuracy and storytelling in your reports to ensure they provide actionable insights for stakeholders. Mention any tools you use to visualize data effectively.

Discuss your leadership style, focusing on collaboration, empowerment, and support. Explain how you motivate your team and cultivate their growth through mentoring and open feedback. Describe how this approach aligns with Vaxcyte’s values.

Here, explain your time management strategies and prioritization techniques. Touch on the importance of organization, delegation, and maintaining clear communication with your team to ensure all projects progress effectively while meeting deadlines.