Founding HR - AI based B2B Startup/ ESOP policy

Responsibilities:

• Own the end-to-end hiring process for leadership and other roles.
• Formulate a comprehensive ESOP policy with vesting schedule and exercise guidelines.
• Build a high value employer brand.
• Ensure compliance with labor laws, factory acts, payroll, PF, ESIC, CLRA, Shops & Establishments, etc.
• Design and implement a structured performance appraisal framework aligned with company goals
• Drive goal-setting, mid-cycle reviews, and annual appraisal processes
• Work closely with leadership to ensure fair, data-driven performance evaluations
• Support managers in performance feedback, improvement plans, and career development discussions
• Own end-to-end monthly payroll management for employees
• Ensure payroll processes are fully compliant with statutory and company policies
• Draft, implement, and continuously improve HR policies, SOPs, and manuals
• Ensure policies are practical, compliant, and aligned with company culture
• Drive employee engagement initiatives across office and plant teams

Good to have:

• Prior 10+ years of experience in HR generalist roles, preferably in high growth startup.
• Strong experience in HR management and ESOP policy making.
• Solid understanding of Indian labour laws and statutory compliance
• Proven ability to independently manage the entire HR function
• Hands-on, execution-focused, and comfortable working in a fast-moving startup environment
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work across levels
• Prior experience setting up HR systems from scratch is a big plus