Head of People

HEAD OF PEOPLE - NEW OPENING - JKS RESTAURANTS

Schedule - Full Time

Salary - up to $90,000 per annum. Dependent on experience.

Experience - At least 4 years experience in HR/Talent Acquisition. PHR/SHRM-CP certification preferred.

JKS Restaurants are seeking a Head of People to join their new opening in New York city. The successful candidate will be personable, passionate, and possess exceptional experience in Human Resources and Talent Acquisition.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced People professional looking to join an award-winning, critically acclaimed group with huge plans.

The Group

JKS Restaurants is a London based group. Founded by siblings Jyotin, Karam and Sunaina Sethi in November 2008. The group has received critical acclaim and industry recognition since its inception, including 7 Michelin stars, 5 Michelin Bib Gourmands and one restaurant ranked in the World’s 100 Best restaurants.

In London the JKS portfolio currently includes Michelin Starred restaurants Trishna, Gymkhana, Kitchen Table, Sabor and Lyle’s; as well as cult favourites Hoppers, BAO, Brigadiers, Berenjak, Plaza Khao Gaeng, Speedboat Bar and Bibi. Pubs include The Cadogan Arms and The George.

Across the Middle Berenjak, Gymkhana and Hoppers can be found in Dubai, Sharjah, Doha and Riyadh.

JKS Restaurants offers a unique chance to either pursue a career in fine dining or develop within casual trend focused cuisine, with opportunities across all disciplines for those looking to progress their careers within a people focused, collaborative hospitality group.

The Role

The Head of People will be a critical role in the business, responsible for building our people function from the ground up as we launch our first New York location with further plans for expansion on the horizon.

As one of the first employees in the business, this role requires an entrepreneurial hands-on HR leader who can rapidly establish and execute our talent acquisition strategy, creating scalable processes for hiring, onboarding, and cultivating our distinct company culture.

Key Responsibilities:

(First 6 Months):

• Implement HR foundations ahead of a restaurant opening circa 100 employees.
• Build recruitment processes and employer brand to support scaling of FOH & BOH department totalling 100 employees.
• Establish core HR policies and procedures aligned with NYC and NY state regulations.
• Develop competitive compensation and benefits packages for the NYC market.
• Create onboarding programs that effectively convey our culture and values.
• Establish performance management and feedback frameworks.
• Partner with leadership and UK based teams to define organisational structure and growth plans.

Employee Relations

• Serve as the primary point of contact for all local Human Resource matters in assigned region.
• Direct, support and coach the management team to enhance People function effectiveness.
• Maintain hands-on and visible presence across all regional locations.
• Provide guidance on employee relations matters, including employment law interpretation and escalation when needed.

Benefits & Recognition

• Communicate and promote benefits packages to operational teams.
• Manage employee recognition programs including work anniversaries and service awards.
• Monitor and optimize benefits enrolment and utilization in region.
• Drive HR initiatives including employee engagement, recognition programs, wellness initiatives, and DEI projects.

Compliance

• Ensure 100% compliance with federal, state, and local HR requirements.
• Support immigration compliance and visa sponsorship processes when needed.
• Maintain accurate HR documentation and records.

Training & Development

• Ensure comprehensive new hire orientation and onboarding across all locations.
• Oversee probationary period reviews and regular performance evaluations.
• Drive participation in Learning & Development programs.

Required Experience & Skills

• Minimum 4 years HR/Talent Acquisition experience.
• Restaurant/hospitality industry experience essential.
• Strong knowledge of US employment law and HR best practices.
• PHR/SHRM-CP certification preferred.

Key Competencies

• Creative approach to employee experience initiatives
• Outstanding communication skills with ability to engage all organizational levels
• Strong organizational and prioritization skills with attention to detail
• Professional presence with an approachable personality
• Demonstrated experience in multi-unit restaurant operations

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary and bonus potential
• Comprehensive benefits package
• Professional development opportunities
• Career growth potential in expanding organization
• Equal Opportunity Employer

Equal Employment Opportunity Employer

JKS Restaurants is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We provide equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws.

In the vibrant and diverse heart of New York City, we recognize the importance of reflecting the communities we serve. At JKS Restaurants Group, we believe in fostering a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered to thrive.

If you’re passionate about hospitality and looking to join a team that values innovation, collaboration, and inclusivity, we’d love to hear from you.