Human Resources Manager

HR Manager - SGBI (Cochin, Kerala) Location: Cochin, Kerala (Primarily in-office) Role Type: Full-time About SGBI Inc (Sastra Robotics) SGBI Inc is a Silicon Valley-based robotics and AI company operating across the USA, UK, and India. We are building next-generation Physical AI systems that combine AI, robotics, computer vision, and intelligent software to automate quality assurance of both software and hardware in smart devices. Our flagship platform, QUACO (Quality Assurance Companion), enables AI-driven, robot-aided testing of Human-Machine Interfaces (HMIs), bridging the gap between digital intelligence and real-world systems. We work with global enterprise customers across industries such as retail, automotive, consumer electronics, avionics, medical & a few other industries. We are helping them to accelerate product validation for complex, hardware-dependent software & physical products. If youre looking to be part of a growing robotics and AI company and gain international exposure across three continents, SGBI offers the right environment to learn, grow, and make an impact. Role Overview We are looking for a high-ownership HR Lead to take full responsibility for building, strengthening, and scaling our India team. This role goes beyond traditional HR. You will be responsible for attracting the right talent, improving hiring quality, driving accountability, and building a strong execution culture as we scale our team. You will work closely with founders and leadership to ensure we build a team that can move fast, take ownership, and deliver results. Key Responsibilities 1. Talent Acquisition & Pipeline Building Own full-cycle recruitment with a strong focus on quality and speed.Move beyond conventional hiring (consultancies, job posts) and create innovative sourcing channels & approaches to stand out from the competition.Actively engage with talent communities (LinkedIn, Twitter, referrals, events, networks)Build non-conventional hiring channels (communities, referrals, social presence, networks)Ensure fast hiring decisions avoid losing strong candidates due to delays2. Hiring Ownership & Decision Execution Take end-to-end ownership of hiring from sourcing to closureDrive hiring managers for timely feedback and closureIdentify and eliminate bottlenecks in the hiring processMaintain high standards in candidate evaluation, focus on the quality of hires rather than the quality3. Performance & Accountability Build and implement a clear performance tracking system or modify the current oneEnsure every team member has defined ownership and measurable outcomesIdentify underperformance early and take necessary actions without delaySupport leadership in making clear and timely people decisions4. Culture, Discipline & Team Building Establish a high-accountability and execution-focused work cultureEnsure basic discipline and team alignment through structured routines (e.g., daily morning syncs)Balance flexibility with responsibility: focus on outcomes and deliveryAddress gaps in ownership, behaviour, discipline and team dynamics proactively5. HR Operations & Confidentiality Maintain and improve HR policies, processes, and SOPsOversee payroll, compliance, and HR systems (India-focused)Maintain strict confidentiality of employee data (offers, compensation, performance)Continuously improve HR processes as the company scales6. Communication & Leadership Support Act as a bridge between the India team and global leadership (US/UK)Proactively highlight risks, issues, and improvement areasOperate independently without requiring constant follow-upHandle employee concerns with maturity and fairness without delayProvide timely appreciation for strong performance and address underperformance without delay through clear and constructive feedback. What We Are Looking For 5+ years of experience in HR (startup or high-growth environment preferred)Strong experience in technical hiring; excellent written & verbal communication.High attention to detail; ability to prioritise and multitask in a fast-paced setting.Working knowledge of Excel/Google Sheets and ERP/HRISHigh ownership mindset, someone who takes initiative without being toldStrong follow-up and execution abilityGood judgment in handling confidential and sensitive informationAbility to be firm, fair, and people-focusedExperience drafting HR reports, letters, and contracts; familiar with industry-standard SCM terms.Experience coordinating travel and visa documentation preferred.Ability to develop/modify and roll out HR policies/processes end-to-end.What Will Make You Stand Out Experience building non-conventional hiring processes/pipelinesExposure to robotics, hardware, AI or deep-tech teamsTrack record of improving team performance and accountabilityActive presence in talent communities or employer brandingImportant Note This role is suited for someone who is proactive, execution-driven, and comfortable taking ownership in a .