Compensation Director

Company Description

At Western Digital, our vision is to drive global innovation and push the limits of technology, making the impossible possible.

We are a company of problem solvers, dedicated to achieving extraordinary things with the right technology. Our innovations have played a role in pivotal moments, such as sending a man to the moon.

As a key partner to some of the world's largest and fastest-growing organizations, we enable advancements in everything from competitive gaming and smart cities to connecting data centers for major companies and public cloud services.

Whether binge-watching shows, shopping online, or using social media, Western Digital is at the heart of the storage infrastructure that supports these activities. Our technology also powers the devices that capture and preserve your most cherished moments.

We provide a broad portfolio of technologies and storage solutions for both businesses and consumers, featuring the Western Digital®, G-Technology, and WD® brands.

Today's exceptional challenges require your unique skills. Together with Western Digital, you could be part of the next big innovation in data.

Job Description

Job Summary:

The Compensation Director is responsible for leading the strategic design and implementation of the company's compensation programs. This role ensures our compensation practices—including base pay, variable pay, equity, job architecture, and market analysis—are competitive, compliant, scalable, and aligned with our strategic goals. The Director collaborates closely with senior HR leaders and business executives, providing critical advice on compensation strategies to attract, retain, and motivate top talent.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership & Partnership

Develop and execute a comprehensive compensation strategy that meets business objectives and enhances employee experience.

Act as a trusted advisor to senior leadership and HR Business Partners on compensation philosophy, pay decisions, and organizational design.

Provide executive-level consultation on compensation-related issues, including workforce structure and retention risks.

Compensation Operations Ownership

Lead the design and implementation of compensation operations, including:

Job architecture and leveling frameworks

Annual compensation cycles (merit, bonus, equity)

Global market benchmarking and survey participation

Compensation tools and systems (e.g., HRIS, compensation planning platforms)

Ensure accuracy and scalability in all compensation processes.

Governance, Compliance & Risk Mitigation

Oversee compensation governance, including policies, process documentation, and approval workflows.

Ensure compliance with applicable regulations and partner with Legal, HR, and Finance on audit support, reporting, and risk mitigation related to compensation practices.

Analytics & Insights

Work with the analytics leader to oversee compensation analytics and reporting to guide decision-making across the organization.

Monitor compensation trends and market intelligence, providing recommendations to maintain competitive positioning.

Utilize data to identify pay equity issues, workforce cost trends, and reward optimization opportunities.

Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Finance, Business, or a related field; Master's or MBA preferred.

CCP (Certified Compensation Professional) certification highly preferred.

10+ years of progressive compensation experience, with at least 3-5 years in a leadership role.

Experience managing compensation operations.

Strong analytical, project management, and strategic thinking skills.

Familiarity with compensation tools and platforms (e.g., Workday, SAP SuccessFactors, MarketPay).

Excellent communication and influencing skills; proven ability to collaborate with senior leadership.

Preferred Attributes:

Experience in high-growth, matrixed, or global organizations.

Ability to lead through ambiguity and create scalable processes in dynamic environments.

Additional Information

Western Digital is dedicated to providing equal opportunities to all applicants and employees. We do not discriminate based on race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, gender identity, age, national origin, sexual orientation, disability, military status, or any other protected characteristics. We prioritize diversity and ensure a workplace where individuals can thrive in an environment of belonging and respect.

If you require accommodations in the application process, please contact us to inform us of your request, including the specific accommodation needed and the job title for which you are applying.

Compensation & Benefits Details:

An employee's pay position will be influenced by various factors including education, qualifications, experience, skills, performance, geographic location, and business needs.

The salary range posted is indicative and may be adjusted based on various factors. This range specifically applies for roles in California, Colorado, New York, or remote positions that can be performed in these locations.

Eligible positions may receive overtime pay, shift differential pay, and may participate in bonus programs based on company performance.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including paid vacation, health insurance, retirement plans, and more.

Please be aware that Western Digital and its subsidiaries will never request payment as a condition of employment. Report any such inquiries to the Western Digital Ethics Helpline or email us directly.