Natalie Rothschild

Natalie Rothschild

Turning Potential into Performance

I've spent my career bridging two worlds that are more alike than different: Michelin-starred kitchens and fast-moving startups. Both demand precision, adaptability, and a deep commitment to doing the work well and quickly.

Now, I bring that same mindset to People Operations, where I build thoughtful systems that support people, scale with growth, and make complexity feel simple. I believe great workplaces are designed, not improvised — and that your background, no matter how unconventional, can be your greatest asset.

About & Experience

From plating desserts to building people systems — always with intention.

My journey from professional kitchen to tech - illustration showing the same person working as a chef decorating a dessert on the left, and working with HR tech tools on the right

My career didn't start in an office — it started in the kitchens of Michelin-starred restaurants, where every second counted and every detail mattered. It was there I learned what it really means to lead under pressure, to create systems that work even when things get chaotic, and to show up for your team no matter what's on the line.

That foundation shaped how I approach People Operations today. I see HR as a craft: part strategic design, part service, and deeply human. I've worked across startups and scaling companies, helping teams implement tools and processes that bring clarity, connection, and consistency to their work — without getting in the way of what makes them great.

These days, I use tech like Vercel, Cursor, and LLMs to build custom workflows, automate the boring stuff, and make people ops feel like less of a bottleneck and more of a springboard. But more than anything, I believe good systems should serve people, not the other way around.

Operations with a Heart

From performance reviews to policy design, I make sure people ops doesn't lose its soul. My work centers on creating systems that make people feel seen, supported, and set up for success.

Workflow Architect

I build people systems that reduce chaos and increase clarity. Whether it's designing onboarding flows or integrating new tools, I bring structure that scales and supports the human experience.

Strategic Sounding Board

I'm someone people come to when things feel stuck. I listen deeply, ask the right questions, and help teams move forward with calm, thoughtful momentum — especially during moments of change.

My Approach

How I create value and drive performance

Non-Traditional Approach

My approach to People Operations is anything but traditional. I'm focused on building functional workflows and using technology to enhance human potential, not replace it.

Innovative workflow diagram with robotic hand interface

Identifying Transferable Skills

A key part of my passion is listening to individuals, particularly those from intense backgrounds like hospitality, and helping them identify their transferable skills. Many people don't realize how well-equipped they already are for new roles and industries.

Woman analyzing transferable skills with checklist and magnifying glass

Transparent Systems

My goal is always to create systems that are transparent, functional, and help teams perform at their best. I believe in empowering people with the right tools and information.

Computer screen showing workflow diagram with team members collaborating

Beyond the Resume

Craft fuels clarity. Creativity builds systems.

When I'm not working, I'm often in the kitchen or at the pottery wheel. Baking and pottery are where I recharge. They call for focus, care, and a willingness to experiment — the same mindset I bring to my professional life.

Perfecting a pastry or shaping clay is all about process. You start with the right components, test and adjust, and eventually land on something that works. That approach has shaped how I build systems at work — thoughtful, hands-on, and always evolving.

These creative practices keep me grounded. They remind me that good things take time, and that great work, like a great recipe, is meant to be shared.

Handcrafted pottery mug and vase
Collection of handmade ceramic vessels
Homemade chocolate bonbons
Poppy seed cake bites with frosting

Let's Connect

I'd love to hear from you

My favorite work starts with real conversations. If you're passionate about people, curious about systems, or just figuring it all out - I'd love to chat.

Why Connect?

  • Explore potential collaborations or fractional support
  • Learn how I approach building people-first systems that scale
  • Exchange ideas on using AI to streamline systems and enhance the employee experience
  • Talk about making the leap from hospitality to tech or corporate — and how to translate your experience with confidence

Send Me a Message