Senior Compensation Business Partner -Sunnyvale Office

About the role

Proofpoint is a global leader in human- and agent-centric cybersecurity. We protect how people, data, and AI agents connect across email, cloud, and collaboration tools. Over 80 of the Fortune 100, 10,000 large enterprises, and millions of smaller organizations trust Proofpoint to stop threats, prevent data loss, and build resilience across their people and AI workflows. Our mission is simple: safeguard the digital world and empower people to work securely and confidently. Join us in our pursuit to defend data and protect people. How We Work: At Proofpoint you'll be part of a global team that breaks barriers to redefine cybersecurity guided by our BRAVE core values: Bold in how we dream and innovate Responsive to feedback, challenges and opportunities Accountable for results and best in class outcomes Visionary in future focused problem-solving Exceptional in execution and impact The Senior Compensation Business Partner is a strategic advisor responsible for aligning compensation practices with business priorities while ensuring market competitiveness, internal equity, and effective decision-making. This role partners closely with People Strategy Partners (PSPs) and business leaders to deliver data-driven insights, scalable frameworks, and impactful compensation solutions. The ideal candidate builds trust and credibility quickly through sound judgment, clear communication, strong client partnership, and a solutions-oriented approach. Location & Work Model This role requires an onsite presence at our corporate office four days per week and includes a lunch stipend along with opportunities to participate in onsite events

Responsibilities

• Strategic Business Partnership:
• Serve as a trusted compensation advisor to PSPs, business leaders, and internal clients
• Partner with stakeholders to align compensation strategies with business goals and workforce priorities
• Provide expert guidance on offers, promotions, and retention decisions
• Enable timely, business-aligned decisions through clear frameworks and proactive consultation
• Build strong relationships and deliver a consistent, high-quality advisory experience
• Compensation Advisory & Governance
• Ensure consistent application of compensation philosophy, policies, and practices
• Identify and address pay gaps, compression issues, and retention risks
• Establish and promote frameworks that drive fairness and consistency
• Analytics & Insights
• Analyze compensation data, market benchmarks, and workforce trends
• Translate complex data into clear, actionable insights
• Use data storytelling to communicate recommendations, risks, and tradeoffs
• Monitor market movement and internal equity to guide compensation decisions
• Program Design & Execution
• Support the design and implementation of compensation programs, structures, and policies
• Develop tools, guidelines, and processes to improve scalability and effectiveness
• Drive continuous improvement based on feedback, market trends, and business outcomes
• Mergers & Acquisitions
• Lead compensation-related activities for M&A, including due diligence and integration planning
• Evaluate compensation structures and identify risks
• Support harmonization efforts across organizations
• Partner cross-functionally to ensure equitable, competitive integration outcomes

Requirements

• 8+ years of experience in compensation consulting or corporate compensation
• Experience supporting Sales and Engineering organizations at a senior level
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to translate data into actionable insights
• Proven ability to build trust and credibility with senior leaders and HR partners
• Experience influencing stakeholders and navigating complex or ambiguous situations
• Experience in M&A compensation (preferred)
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to simplify complex concepts
• Key Competencies:
• Trusted advisor mindset with strong client-service orientation
• Solutions-oriented problem solving
• Strategic thinking and business acumen
• Data-driven decision-making
• Strong stakeholder partnership and influence
• Ability to build trust and credibility quickly
• Sound judgment and discretion
• Attention to detail and execution excellence
• #LI-JK1
• Why Proofpoint?
• At Proofpoint, we believe that an exceptional career experience includes a comprehensive compensation and benefits package. Here are just a few reasons you'll love working with us:
• Competitive compensation
• Comprehensive benefits
• Career success on your terms
• Flexible work environment
• Annual wellness and community outreach days
• Always on recognition for your contributions
• Global collaboration and networking opportunities
• Our Culture:
• Our culture is rooted in values that inspire belonging, empower purpose and drive success-every day, for everyone.
• We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. If you need accommodation during the application or interview process, please reach out to accessibilit

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