Senior HR Business Partner (m/f/d)

Overview

As a Senior HR Business Partner, you will serve as a trusted advisor to business leaders and employees across a defined business area. You will drive HR strategy, lead key people initiatives, and ensure compliance with German labor law while fostering a constructive and transparent relationship with the works council (Betriebsrat). Your role will be pivotal in shaping a people-centric, legally sound HR environment that supports both business goals and employee engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as a strategic partner to business leaders on all HR-related topics, including workforce planning, talent development, performance management, and organizational changes
• Provide expert guidance on German labor law and ensure HR practices comply with legal and regulatory requirements
• Manage a full spectrum of employee relations matters (e.g., disciplinary actions, contract changes, dismissals), in coordination with legal and compliance teams
• Build and maintain a constructive and cooperative relationship with the works council, including participation in negotiations, hearings, and consultations under the Works Constitution Act (BetrVG)
• Support and lead change management and restructuring processes within the business unit
• Design and implement HR policies and initiatives that align with local regulations and global HR standards
• Drive the implementation of HR processes and tools, including performance reviews, compensation cycles, and talent programs
• Analyze HR data and KPIs to inform strategic decision-making and improve HR service delivery
• Coach and support leaders on people management, team dynamics, and leadership development
• Ensure smooth coordination with HR centers of expertise (recruiting, compensation & benefits, learning & development, etc.)

Your Profile / Qualifications

• University degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Law, Psychology, or a related field
• At least 5 years of professional experience as an HR Business Partner or in a similar generalist HR role, ideally in a matrix or international environment
• In-depth knowledge of German labor law and proven experience in working with a works council (Betriebsrat)
• Strong communication and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to influence and build trust at all levels of the organization
• Strategic mindset combined with hands-on execution capability
• High level of discretion and professionalism in handling confidential matters
• Fluent in German (C1+) and English (B2+) – both written and spoken
• Proficient in MS Office; experience with HRIS systems (e.g., Workday, SAP SuccessFactors) is a plus

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Human Resources and Science

Industries

• Biotechnology Research and Pharmaceutical Manufacturing