Talent Management Contractor

Northridge, CA6 month contract to startNo C2CW2 OnlyRemote but with possible intermittent travel to NorthridgeRemote "Ok" for a strong matchOur client is seeking an experienced and passionate Talent Management Contractor for a 6-month engagement supporting our people and talent agenda during an exciting period of growth and transformation.This role is focused exclusively on talent management — designing, executing, and embedding the talent programs, tools, and processes that will help our client identify, develop, and retain the people who will power our future as a great independent company.Key Proven Skill Sets Needed ~Proficiency In HRIS Systems — Workday Experience Strongly PreferredBachelor degreeKey Responsibilities ~Talent Reviews & Succession Planning Support the design and facilitation of talent review sessions across the organization using the 9-box performance and potential framework Partner with HRBPs and senior leaders to identify high-potential employees and build succession slates for critical roles. Prepare talent review materials, calibration decks, and supporting data for leadership discussions. Document and track outcomes from talent review sessions including development plans, succession decisions, and talent movement Support both the Spring and Fall talent review cycles.Performance Management Support the execution and continuous improvement of client's performance management framework including goal setting, mid-year check-ins, and yearend evaluations. Partner with HRBPs and HR Operations to ensure managers and employees have the tools, resources, and guidance needed to navigate the performance cycle effectively. Contribute to the development of performance management communications, toolkits, and manager guides. Support calibration sessions including preparation of materials, data analysis, and documentation of outcomes.Leadership & Employee Development Partner with HR leadership to identify skill gaps and recommend targeted development solutions across the organization. Support the design and delivery of development programs for high-potential employees and emerging leaders. Assist in the creation and facilitation of New Leader Assimilation sessions for incoming senior leaders. Help build and maintain a library of development resources, toolkits, and best practice guides for people managers. Support the rollout and adoption of individual development plans across the organization.Onboarding & New Hire Experience Contribute to the design and continuous improvement of our client's new starter onboarding program. Ensure onboarding experiences are structured, consistent, and set new hires up for early success and connection. Partner with HR and business leaders to build role-specific onboarding journeys for key populations. Gather and analyze new hire feedback to identify opportunities to improve the onboarding experience.Talent Program Design & Documentation Support the design, build, and documentation of talent management programs, frameworks, and processes. Create clear and compelling program materials including playbooks, toolkits, facilitation guides, and employee-facing resources. Ensure all talent programs are aligned to client's culture, values, and strategic imperatives. Identify and recommend best practices from the external talent management landscape that could strengthen client's approach.