Founding Talent Lead – Build Talent Engine at AI Startup

About the role

Cortea, a Berlin‑based AI startup that automates audit work, is looking for a Founding Talent Lead to design and own its talent acquisition function. You will create the processes that attract top‑tier tech and non‑tech talent and help shape a culture of speed, trust, and kindness.

Key responsibilities

• Own the full talent lifecycle: job design, scope definition, JD creation, sourcing, structured interviews, offers, and closures.
• Build a proactive Talent Engine that generates inbound and outbound pipelines.
• Raise hiring standards through scorecards, interviewer training, and a consistent candidate experience.
• Develop the employer brand for tech/AI talent via content, events, and referral programs.
• Partner with founders on cultural rituals, onboarding hand‑over, and feedback loops.

Required profile

• 5+ years of talent acquisition experience in fast‑moving environments (startup, scale‑up, or agency).
• Proven track record of hiring top talent and assessing senior candidates.
• Clear communicator who can leverage founders and make data‑driven decisions quickly.
• Demonstrated early‑stage hiring successes you’re proud of.
• Systems‑thinking mindset; experience with employer branding for engineers/AI is a plus.

Required skills

What we offer

• High impact from day one with a clear path to Head of Talent/People as the company grows.
• Competitive salary plus meaningful equity (range discussed in the first call).
• Fully onsite Berlin office with shared lunches, whiteboard sessions, and fast decision‑making.
• Budget for tools, learning, and events of your choice.