This Is HR for Hustlers.
At Octopus HR, we don’t do corporate cookie-cutter strategies. We’re about getting things done, solving problems, and helping founders scale their businesses with practical HR solutions that make a real difference.
We know what it’s like to build something from the ground up. That’s why we partner with companies of 100 people or less—businesses where every decision, every hire, and every system matters. Whether you’re creating your first policies or scaling your team, we’re here to help you make it work.
Our Values:
● Practicality: Real solutions for real challenges.
● Partnership: We’re in it with you, every step of the way.
● Impact: HR strategies that move the needle.
Meet Our CEO and Founder: Steph Barlow
Hi, I’m Steph Barlow, the CEO (Chief Executive Octopus) and founder of Octopus HR. I’ve been where you are—building, scaling, and solving problems on the fly. That’s why I started Octopus HR: to offer practical, no-nonsense HR strategies for businesses that don’t have time for fluff or bureaucracy.
I bring over a decade of experience in HR leadership, working with startups, high-growth companies, and scrappy teams who know every decision counts. Whether it’s helping founders hire their first leadership team or untangling a complex people challenge, I’m here to get it done.
Why Choose Us:
Why HR? Why Octopus HR?
HR doesn’t have to be the corporate buzzword machine we’ve all come to dread. I founded Octopus HR to rewrite that narrative. Our tagline, “For when you need more hands, ” speaks to the kind of support I wish I’d had while working with growing businesses—hands-on, adaptable, and impact-driven.
The octopus itself? It’s a symbol of resourcefulness and agility, traits I bring to every partnership.
I’ll work with you to craft strategies that are practical and tactical—ones that help you solve today’s challenges and build a foundation for tomorrow’s growth.
What We Bring to the Table:
Adaptability: HR solutions tailored to your stage of growth, not a template.
Founder’s Perspective: I understand what it means to juggle a million priorities.
Results-Driven Focus: Everything I do is designed to move the needle for your business.
Beyond HR
When I’m not helping founders solve their “people problems” , I’m crocheting, painting, playing video games or hiking the beautiful trails of Vancouver’s North Shore. These moments fuel my creativity and remind me why I’m so passionate about creating thriving workplaces.