Director, Employee Relations Partner - Foster

At Gilead, we are dedicated to creating a healthier world by advancing therapies for diseases such as HIV, viral hepatitis, COVID‑19, and cancer. Our culture drives collaboration, determination, and a relentless commitment to making a difference. We are seeking passionate leaders who want to have a direct impact on the lives of patients and employees worldwide.

As a Director of Employee Relations (ER), you will partner with the Head of ER Americas to deliver strategic ER support across Gilead’s global human resources organization. Your focus will be on complex investigations, high‑risk disciplinary actions, re‑organizations, severance eligibility, and data‑driven insights that enhance the employee experience. The position is based in Foster City, California, where the company is headquartered.

• Provide subject‑matter expertise on performance management, investigations, high‑risk discipline, terminations, reorganizations, leaves of absence, and disability accommodations.
• Lead the continued development and scaling of ER’s core service catalog, prioritizing process improvement, knowledge articles, training, and analytics.
• Exercise sound judgment and earn the trust of key stakeholders when advising on ER matters.
• Simplify complexity by delivering clear, auditable recommendations attuned to the audience.
• Navigate ambiguity and create innovative solutions to unprecedented challenges, setting precedent for future decisions.
• Guide HR Business Partners, managers, and senior leaders on employment risk management.
• Investigate complaints involving complex employment matters, preparing objective summaries with factual findings.
• Advise on business change, including acquisitions, integrations, restructurings, and reorganizations.

• Work proactively toward long‑range goals that significantly impact the organization.
• Initiate assignments independently and collaborate across functions, departments, and geographies.
• Conduct regular stakeholder meetings and drive alignment through persuasion and influence.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with HR, Legal, and other internal clients.

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree desirable (substitutable for 2 years of experience).
• Minimum 12 years of relevant experience, including 2 years managing complex ER issues in a global biopharma setting.
• PHR/SPHR or AWI certification a plus.

• Experience as an HR Business Partner, ER Partner, or employment law professional.
• Excellent verbal, written, and presentation skills with strong PowerPoint capabilities.
• Proficiency in ER case‑management systems (e.g., Service Now) and data analysis.
• Strong knowledge of U.S. and California employment law; experience with Canada and/or LATAM a plus.
• Demonstrated judgment, strategic advice, and influence across all organizational levels.
• Resilience and the ability to manage high‑volume work with clarity.

• Create Inclusion: Model inclusion, embed diversity in team management, and foster an environment where all feel empowered.
• Develop Talent: Understand each employee’s strengths and aspirations, provide coaching and feedback, and support career growth.
• Empower Teams: Align local goals with organizational objectives, hold teams accountable, and remove barriers to success.

Salary range: $210,375 – $272,250 per year. In addition to base compensation, this role may be eligible for discretionary annual bonus, long‑term equity, paid time off, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, and life insurance.

Gilead Sciences Inc. is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, veteran status, or any other protected class in accordance with applicable laws.