Role Overview for Chief Human Resources Officer with a Manufacturing Group – Indianapolis, IN
JRG Partners is proud to partner with a premier, multi-site manufacturing organization in their search for a dynamic and visionary Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO). Based in the vibrant city of Indianapolis, IN, this is a career-defining opportunity to join a well-established company poised for significant growth. The CHRO will serve as a key member of the executive leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This individual will be the principal architect of the company’s human capital strategy, responsible for shaping a high-performance culture that attracts, retains, and develops top-tier talent across all levels of the organization.
As the CHRO, you will be more than just an HR leader; you will be a strategic business partner, a culture champion, and a trusted advisor to the CEO and the board. You will have full ownership of the entire HR function, including talent acquisition, organizational development, employee and labor relations, compensation and benefits, HR technology, and compliance. The ideal candidate will bring a proven track record of HR leadership from within a complex manufacturing or industrial environment.
You must possess a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities present in a production-focused setting, from plant-floor safety and labor relations to corporate succession planning. This role requires a leader who can seamlessly transition between high-level strategic planning and hands-on operational execution, driving initiatives that directly impact business outcomes, employee engagement, and overall profitability. You will be instrumental in scaling the organization, navigating change, and ensuring that the human resources function is a competitive advantage for the business.
Key Responsibilities of Chief Human Resources Officer with a Manufacturing Group – Indianapolis, IN
Strategic Leadership & Business Partnership
Collaborate with the executive team to define and execute a comprehensive human capital strategy that aligns with and drives the company’s long-term business objectives. Provide expert counsel on all people-related issues, including organizational design, workforce planning, and change management.
Talent Management & Acquisition
Develop and lead a sophisticated talent acquisition strategy to attract top talent for roles ranging from hourly production staff to senior corporate leaders. Implement robust performance management, succession planning, and leadership development programs to build a strong talent pipeline and ensure business continuity.
Culture & Organizational Development
Act as the primary steward of the company’s culture, championing initiatives that foster a positive, inclusive, and high-performance work environment. Lead employee engagement surveys and action planning to continuously improve the employee experience.
Employee & Labor Relations
Oversee all employee relations matters, ensuring fair and consistent application of company policies. In environments with organized labor, lead collective bargaining negotiations, contract administration, and grievance procedures to maintain a productive and positive relationship with union partners.
Total Rewards Strategy
Design, implement, and manage a competitive and equitable total rewards strategy, including base compensation, variable pay, long-term incentives, and benefits programs. Ensure all programs are market-competitive, legally compliant, and aligned with the company’s financial goals.
HR Operations, Technology & Compliance
Modernize and optimize HR operations through the effective use of HRIS and other technologies. Ensure unwavering compliance with all federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, including EEO, FMLA, ADA, and Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) standards.
Safety & Risk Management
Partner closely with operations leadership to cultivate a world-class safety culture. Oversee workers’ compensation programs and lead initiatives to minimize workplace accidents and injuries, ensuring the well-being of all employees.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
Develop and execute a comprehensive DEI strategy that is woven into all aspects of the employee lifecycle, from hiring and promotion to training and development, creating a workplace where every employee feels valued and has an opportunity to succeed.
Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) Integration
Play a key leadership role in the HR due diligence and integration process for any potential mergers or acquisitions, ensuring a smooth and effective transition for all employees.
Requirements for the Chief Human Resources Officer with a Manufacturing Group – Indianapolis, IN
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree (MBA or MS in HR) is strongly preferred.
Professional Certification
SHRM-SCP or SPHR certification is highly desirable.
Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in Human Resources, with at least 7 years in a senior leadership role (e.g., VP of HR, Head of HR) with broad functional oversight.
Industry Background
Non-negotiable experience in a manufacturing, industrial, distribution, or related blue-collar environment is essential for success in this role. Experience in a multi-site, multi-state organization is required.
Labor Relations
Demonstrable experience in labor relations, including collective bargaining, contract negotiations, and grievance resolution, is highly preferred.
Strategic Acumen
Proven ability to function as a strategic business partner with a strong understanding of business financials and operations. Must have a track record of developing and implementing successful HR strategies that have driven measurable business results.
Leadership Skills
Exceptional leadership and people management skills with the ability to inspire, mentor, and develop a high-performing HR team.
Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Superior communication, negotiation, and influencing skills, with the ability to build credibility and strong relationships at all levels of the organization, from the plant floor to the boardroom.
Analytical Mindset
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with experience using data and metrics to inform HR decisions and strategies.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive benefits package, including:
Executive Compensation
A competitive base salary complemented by a significant annual bonus and a long-term incentive plan (LTIP).
Health & Wellness
Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your eligible dependents.
Retirement Savings
A robust 401(k) plan with a generous company match to help you plan for your future.
Paid Time Off
A generous paid time off (PTO) policy, including vacation, sick days, and company-paid holidays.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the ideal candidate.
Professional Development
A commitment to your ongoing professional growth with support for conferences, certifications, and further education.
Leadership Impact
The opportunity to make a significant and lasting impact on a growing and successful organization.
How to Apply
If you are a results-oriented and strategic HR executive with a passion for manufacturing and a desire to drive meaningful change, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. JRG Partners is managing this exclusive search. To be considered, please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience.
For more information on our expertise in placing top-tier HR leaders, please visit our Human Resources Executive Search practice area page.
Our client is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
