About this role
Secure Every Identity, from AI to Human
Identity is the key to unlocking the potential of AI. Okta secures AI by building the trusted, neutral infrastructure that enables organizations to safely embrace this new era. This work requires a relentless drive to solve complex challenges with real-world stakes. We are looking for builders and owners who operate with speed and urgency and execute with excellence.
This is an opportunity to do career-defining work. We're all in on this mission. If you are too, let's talk.
Director/Senior Director, Chief of Staff – Global People Team
Reports to: Chief People Officer Location: SF Bay Area (SF HQ a minimum of 2x week)
Role Overview
The Director/Senior Director, Chief of Staff is a highly visible, strategic, and highly operational leadership role designed to serve as the critical "glue" that makes everything fit together across Okta's Global People organization. Reporting directly to the Chief People Officer (CPO), you will act as a true strategic thought partner and operational proxy for the CPO, building deep, trust-based relationships across the People Leadership Team (PLT) and the broader business.
This role requires a rare and sophisticated dual capability: you must be deeply strategic with a commanding executive presence, yet remain relentlessly operational in execution. Crucially, you possess the business acumen and discernment to ensure we focus on the right priorities. You will bring a vibrant, high-energy presence to the team, serving as the connective tissue that bridges functional silos, coordinates global efforts, and drives high-velocity execution in our fast-paced, AI-driven landscape.
What You'll Do
Executive Proxy and Strategic Thought Partnership
• CPO Proxy & Advisor: Serve as a trusted advisor, strategic thought partner, and proxy for the Chief People Officer, representing the Office of the CPO in key leadership forums and decision-making bodies.
• The Connective "Glue": Cultivate deep, authentic relationships across the People Leadership Team (PLT)—including PBPs, L&D, Recruiting, People Ops, Total Rewards, and Workplace—ensuring all separate programs align and fit together seamlessly.
• Strategic Filtering: Evaluate operational requests and initiatives with critical rigor, acting as a gatekeeper to ensure we do not waste organizational energy over-engineering or operationalizing the wrong processes.
• Special & High-Impact Initiatives: Lead high-stakes, cross-group special projects from concept to completion, ensuring precise work-back schedules, clear ownership, and definitive output.
High-Velocity Operations and Program Integration
• Central Program "Hub": Manage and synchronize all global People program timelines, including product launch dates, program releases, and policy effective dates.
• Planning and Resource Optimization: Lead the People organization through annual and quarterly business planning (QBRs), streamlining headcount allocation, and op