First HR Leader: Build & Scale the People Function

Buckingham Search; Houston (TX); Remote; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Buckingham Search is seeking its first dedicated HR leader to build the people function from the ground up. This role reports to the CFO and will directly influence how the company hires, supports, and develops talent across multiple locations while maintaining mostly remote operations.

You will craft policies, oversee payroll and benefits, and shape recruiting, onboarding, and performance processes, while guiding leaders and managers.

Qualifications

• 7+ years of progressive HR experience with payroll, benefits, and compliance.
• Experience building or leading an HR function in a growing, multi-location company.
• Strong knowledge of employment practices and HR operations.

Responsibilities

• Establish and lead the core HR function, policies, records, and operating rhythm.
• Oversee payroll, benefits administration, and vendor partnerships.
• Develop recruiting, onboarding, offboarding, leave, and performance processes.
• Advise leaders on people strategy and resolve employee concerns.
• Coach managers on communication, feedback, and HR practices.
• Ensure compliance across states as the organization grows.

Skills

HR leadership

Payroll & benefits

HR operations

Policy development

Compliance

Employee relations

Cross-location coordination

Education

Bachelor's degree in HR/Business Administration

Tools

HRIS

Payroll systems

Job description

Buckingham Search is seeking its first dedicated HR leader to build the people function from the ground up. This role reports to the CFO and will directly influence how the company hires, supports, and develops talent across multiple locations while maintaining mostly remote operations.

You will craft policies, oversee payroll and benefits, and shape recruiting, onboarding, and performance processes, while guiding leaders and managers.