Project Manager / Program Manager - Agency Setup (m/f/d)

A company is looking for an experienced freelance staffing Project Manager or Program Manager to lead the structured setup of an agency with about 150 employees within six months. The role includes full responsibility for the recruiting initiative, including planning, coordination, and operational execution. The candidate acts as the central coordinator between internal resources, external freelance recruiters, and management, ensuring a complete overview of all ongoing activities.

• Project setup and management: building structures, processes, and tools from scratch, managing project schedule, priorities, and escalations, and conducting kick-off meetings.
• Staffing and resource planning: developing and maintaining a full staffing plan, leading a team of internal and freelance recruiters, planning freelancer needs, and coordinating onshore and offshore recruiting activities.
• Controlling and oversight: tracking budgets, monitoring recruitment activity status, regular reporting to management, and proactive problem-solving.
• Collaboration and stakeholder management: working closely with global business partners, HR departments, and recruiting teams to ensure smooth cross-functional processes along the candidate journey.
• Onboarding and infrastructure: supporting the setup of access rights, licenses, as well as hardware and software, ensuring a smooth onboarding experience.
• Culture and employee experience: considering cultural aspects in the setup process, fostering positive onboarding and integration experiences, and being sensitive to cultural differences in nearshore and offshore collaboration.

• Proven experience in (HR) project management or recruiting program management.
• Expertise in building and managing recruiting teams (internal and external).
• Experience in staffing planning in complex, high-growth environments.
• Understanding of onshore/offshore recruiting models.
• Solid knowledge of commercial planning and budget control.
• Agency or consulting background is a plus.
• Strong ability to keep an overview even in high-complexity situations.
• High self-motivation, structured and proactive working style.
• Resilience and flexibility in a dynamic environment.
• Clear and confident communication at all levels.
• Availability for a very short-term start.