Head of Talent Development
Two Sigma · New York, United States
- On site
- Full-time
- $275,000 / year
- New York, United States
Job highlights
- Lead talent development strategy and programs.
- Design performance and promotion processes.
- Drive culture and employee engagement initiatives.
- Develop scalable learning and development programs.
- Manage a high-performing talent development team.
About the role
About Two Sigma
Two Sigma is a leading quantitative investment management and trading firm. The company applies a scientific approach to investing, combining cutting-edge technology, artificial intelligence, data science, and quantitative research with rigorous human inquiry to capitalize on market opportunities and deliver alpha for investors.
Our team of engineers, quantitative researchers and data scientists looks beyond the traditional to test hypotheses and develop creative solutions to some of the world’s most complex economic problems.
Position Summary
We're looking for a Head of Talent Development to architect the systems and programs that help people do the best work of their careers - and to be a driving force in shaping the culture that makes it all possible. In this high-impact role, you'll design the full talent experience, from performance management and promotions to learning initiatives that spark growth. But beyond the programs, you'll be a culture builder at heart, creating the conditions where people feel connected, challenged, and inspired to bring their best.
This role calls for a creative thinker who sees possibilities where others see constraints. You thrive on designing fresh approaches, building strong relationships, and juggling multiple priorities without losing sight of the big picture. You bring a collaborative spirit, a sharp strategic mind, and genuine passion for cultivating environments where talent flourishes. If you're energized by the opportunity to leave a lasting imprint on both people and culture at a fast-moving organization, we’d love to meet you!
Responsibilities
- Develop and evolve the organization's talent development strategy, including ensuring alignment with business priorities, identifying opportunities to enhance existing talent programs, and proactively proposing new solutions to address emerging needs.
- Own the end-to-end design and execution of the performance review process, ensuring it drives meaningful feedback, development, and performance differentiation.
- Lead the promotion process, including design, standards, timeline management, and stakeholder alignment to ensure fairness, consistency, and transparency.
- Drive culture initiatives that reinforce organizational values and strengthen employee engagement.
- Define and develop a scalable, progressive strategy for learning and development, including the design and delivery of high-impact learning programs that build critical capabilities across all levels of the organization.
- Leverage data-driven decision making and research to identify trends and make recommendations for improvement in learning, talent, and engagement processes.
- Manage the Talent Development team.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree.
- 15+ years of experience in HR, with at least 5 years in a senior Talent Development role.
- Proven leadership skills with the ability to manage and develop teams.
- A strategic and creative thinker who can zoom out to envision the future state of talent development while also rolling up their sleeves to ensure excellent execution and stakeholder experience.
- Ability to create thoughtful, unique and culturally aligned talent programs.
- Ability to effectively communicate with all levels of the organization, including employees, managers, and senior leadership.
- Experience with talent development strategies: career paths, competencies, professional development, and implementing programmatic learning agendas.
- Excellent presentation and facilitator skills.
- Strong business insight that demonstrates an understanding of organizational development issues and linking solutions to talent development strategies.
Benefits
- Core Benefits: Fully paid medical and dental insurance premiums for employees and dependents, competitive 401k match, employer-paid life & disability insurance
- Perks: Onsite gyms with laundry service, wellness activities, casual dress, snacks, game rooms
- Learning: Tuition reimbursement, conference and training sponsorship
- Time Off: Generous vacation and unlimited sick days, competitive paid caregiver leaves
- Hybrid Work Policy: Flexible in-office days with budget for home office setup
Compensation
The base pay for this role will be between $225,000 and $325,000. This role may also be eligible for other forms of compensation and benefits, such as a discretionary bonus, health, dental and other wellness plans and 401(k) contributions. Discretionary bonus can be a significant portion of total compensation. Actual compensation for successful candidates will be carefully determined based on a number of factors, including their skills, qualifications and experience.
Equal Opportunity Employer Statement
We are proud to be an equal opportunity workplace. We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, age, status as a protected veteran, status as an individual with a disability, or any other applicable legally protected characteristics.
Two Sigma is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. If you believe you need an accommodation, please visit our website for additional information.
Key skills/competency
- Talent Development Strategy
- Performance Management
- Promotion Process
- Culture Initiatives
- Learning and Development
- Employee Engagement
- HR Leadership
- Strategic Planning
- Organizational Development
- Team Management
Skills & topics
- Head of Talent Development
- Talent Development
- Human Resources
- HR Leadership
- Organizational Development
- Performance Management
- Learning and Development
- Employee Engagement
- Culture
- Leadership
How to get hired
- Tailor your resume: Highlight 15+ years HR experience, 5+ in senior talent development, and leadership skills, aligning with Two Sigma's scientific approach.
- Showcase strategic thinking: Emphasize your ability to design unique, culturally aligned programs and communicate effectively with all organizational levels.
- Quantify achievements: Use data to demonstrate your impact on talent development, performance, and engagement in previous roles.
- Prepare for behavioral questions: Be ready to discuss your experience in culture building, stakeholder management, and leading teams.
- Understand the culture: Research Two Sigma's quantitative, data-driven approach and their commitment to fostering talent and innovation.
Technical preparation
Behavioral questions
Frequently asked questions
- What is the typical career path for a Head of Talent Development at Two Sigma?
- While specific career paths can vary, a Head of Talent Development at Two Sigma often progresses into broader HR leadership roles, such as Chief Human Resources Officer, or takes on specialized executive roles focusing on organizational effectiveness and culture transformation. The role's strategic impact on talent and culture at Two Sigma positions individuals for significant advancement within the firm or the broader financial industry.
- What are the key performance indicators for the Head of Talent Development at Two Sigma?
- Key performance indicators for the Head of Talent Development at Two Sigma likely include the effectiveness and engagement with performance management and promotion processes, the impact and adoption of learning and development programs, improvements in employee engagement scores, successful execution of culture initiatives, and the overall development and retention of talent within the organization. Data-driven insights and measurable improvements will be crucial.
- How does Two Sigma's unique quantitative approach influence the Head of Talent Development role?
- Two Sigma's quantitative approach means the Head of Talent Development should leverage data heavily in all aspects of their work. This includes using analytics to identify talent needs, measure program effectiveness, inform strategy, and predict future trends. A data-driven mindset and the ability to translate complex data into actionable talent strategies are essential.
- What is the interview process like for the Head of Talent Development position at Two Sigma?
- The interview process for a senior role like Head of Talent Development at Two Sigma typically involves multiple stages. Expect initial screening calls, interviews with HR and potential peers, discussions with senior leadership, and potentially case studies or presentations focused on strategic talent initiatives. The process will assess your strategic thinking, leadership capabilities, and cultural fit.
- How does Two Sigma foster a culture of continuous learning and development for its employees?
- Two Sigma fosters continuous learning through a combination of structured programs and a culture that values intellectual curiosity. This includes tuition reimbursement, conference and training sponsorships, and likely internal workshops and knowledge-sharing sessions. The Head of Talent Development plays a crucial role in ensuring these initiatives are progressive, scalable, and aligned with the firm's strategic goals.