Head of Operations - India

ApplyBoard simplifies the study abroad search, application, and acceptance process by connecting international students, recruitment partners, and educational institutions on one intuitive and personalized platform. ApplyBoard is a mission-driven, hyper-growth organization. It has been attracting dedicated individuals for more than eight years who are inspired every day to break down barriers to international education and take their careers to new heights at a company that will invest in their career growth. Our six core values are our compass in our mission to Educate the World and the foundation of our unique company culture. As an organization built on a foundation of diversity, it’s important that our team members are representative of the students from more than 150 countries that we support.

The Opportunity:

Reporting to the VP, People and Culture, the Head of Operations - India is a key leadership role responsible for driving both operational excellence and fostering a high-performing workplace culture. This position requires a strategic thinker who can balance optimizing business operations with managing human resources functions. The ideal candidate will develop and execute strategies to streamline processes, enhance productivity, and ensure regulatory compliances, while leading cross-functional teams to implement process improvements and align operational activities with the company’s strategic objectives.

Simultaneously oversee Human Resources (HR) aspects, from management of HR Business Partner (HRBP) to employee relations and compliance. They will work closely with senior leadership to implement HR strategies that support business growth and foster a positive, inclusive work environment. This includes overseeing performance management and employee development programs and handling complex employee relations issues with professionalism and tact. This role demands excellent communication and interpersonal skills, strong problem-solving abilities, and a commitment to upholding the company’s values and standards.

What you’ll be doing:

• Act as the primary decision-maker for the office, serving as the authorized signatory, and leverage established connections within India to drive strategic initiatives and foster key partnerships

• Develop and implement operational strategies aligned with company goals.

• Oversee daily operations to ensure efficiency, productivity, and compliance with company policies.

• Monitor and analyze operational performance metrics and KPIs.

• Lead cross-functional teams to drive process improvements and operational excellence.

• Manage budgets, forecasts, and financial planning for the India office operations department.

• Collaborate with senior leadership to align operations with business objectives.

• Ensure compliance with industry regulations and standards.

• Support the implementation of HR strategies and initiatives aligned with overall business strategy.

• Oversee performance management, including appraisals, feedback, and development plans.

• Develop and implement training and development programs to enhance employee skills and career growth.

• Ensure compliance with labor laws and regulations, updating policies as needed.

• Handle complex employee relations issues and support terminations when necessary.

• Oversee compensation and benefits programs to ensure competitiveness and equity.

• Liaison with government officials (as required).

What you bring to the table:

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, Human Resources, or related field; MBA or advanced degree preferred.

• 12+ years of experience in operations management, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.

• Knowledge of regulatory requirements including: Labour laws, and Special Economic Zone

• Proven track record of successfully managing operations and HR functions in a fast-paced environment.

• Strong understanding of operational best practices and HR principles.

• Experience dealing with customers as part of local escalation needs.

• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.

• Ability to think strategically and execute operational plans effectively.

• Experience in managing operational budgets.

• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to handle complex situations with tact and professionalism.

Why you’ll want to work here:

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.

• Flexible work arrangements and the ability to work from anywhere.

• Personal Spending Account (PSA) Program.

• Employee Family Assistance Program (EFAP) for mental health and wellness support.

• Company perks, including exclusive discounts and special pricing for memberships.

• Milestone celebrations and recognition of achievements.

• Collaborative and inclusive work environment.

• Professional development and growth opportunities.

About ApplyBoard

ApplyBoard empowers students around the world to access the best education. With more than 1,000,000 students from over 150 countries helped with their journey in less than a decade, we are just getting started.

ApplyBoard’s 1,200 global team members in 30 countries assist students and our 1,500 partner institutions by empowering the international student sector with innovative technology and insights. As a five-time consecutive Deloitte Fast 50 and Fast 500 ranked company, ApplyBoard is growing and scaling like few other companies. On top of our strong growth, our people are growing personally and professionally. ApplyBoard India was Great Place to Work® Institute (India) certified for outstanding employee experience and workplace culture.

Thank you for your interest in joining the ApplyBoard Team and being part of our mission to Educate the World. While we are lucky to attract a high level of interest in each of our roles, only qualified applicants will be contacted and selected for an interview.

ApplyBoard welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available upon request for candidates in all aspects of the hiring and selection process.