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# Chief People Officer with a Growing Manufacturer – Pittsburgh, PA


Role Overview for Chief People Officer with a Growing Manufacturer – Pittsburgh, PA
JRG Partners is proud to conduct an exclusive executive search for a transformative Chief People Officer (CPO) on behalf of our client, a rapidly expanding and innovative manufacturing company based in Pittsburgh, PA. This is a pivotal leadership position for an individual passionate about building world-class teams and fostering a culture of excellence. As a key member of the executive leadership team, the CPO will report directly to the Chief Executive Officer and will be the principal architect of the company’s people strategy, ensuring it aligns seamlessly with and accelerates the organization’s ambitious growth objectives.
Our client is at the forefront of their industry, known for their commitment to quality, technological advancement, and sustainable practices. As they enter a new phase of significant growth, they recognize that their people are their most valuable asset. The CPO will be instrumental in shaping the future of the organization by championing a culture that attracts, develops, and retains top-tier talent. This role demands a strategic visionary who can also execute flawlessly, balancing long-term strategic planning with the day-to-day operational needs of a dynamic workforce.
You will have the unique opportunity to build and scale the human resources function, implementing systems, processes, and programs that will support the company’s journey for years to come. If you are a results-oriented HR leader with a proven track record in a manufacturing environment and a desire to make a tangible impact, this is an unparalleled opportunity to join a winning team and help write the next chapter of their success story.
Key Responsibilities of Chief People Officer with a Growing Manufacturer – Pittsburgh, PA
Executive Leadership & HR Strategy
Collaborate with the CEO and executive team to define and execute a comprehensive, long-range people strategy that supports business growth. Serve as the primary advisor on all human capital matters, providing insightful counsel on organizational design, workforce planning, and change management.
Talent Acquisition & Management
Design and lead a sophisticated talent acquisition function capable of attracting and hiring exceptional talent in a competitive market. Develop and implement a robust talent management framework, including performance management, succession planning, leadership development, and career pathing to foster internal growth and mobility.
Culture & Employee Engagement
Act as the chief steward of the company culture. Develop and champion initiatives that promote a positive, inclusive, and high-performance environment. Utilize data and employee feedback to measure engagement and drive targeted improvements, ensuring the company is a recognized employer of choice.
Total Rewards Strategy
Oversee the design, implementation, and administration of a competitive and equitable total rewards program. This includes executive and broad-based compensation, incentive plans, health and wellness benefits, and retirement programs that attract and retain top talent while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
HR Operations & Compliance
Ensure the HR function operates with maximum efficiency and effectiveness. Oversee the optimization of HRIS and other technologies to streamline processes and provide valuable data analytics. Guarantee full compliance with all federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations, mitigating risk and ensuring ethical practices across the organization.
Learning & Development (L&D)
Create a culture of continuous learning by developing and implementing comprehensive L&D programs. Identify skill gaps and build training initiatives that enhance employee capabilities, support leadership development, and align with strategic business goals.
Employee & Labor Relations
Proactively manage employee relations to foster a positive and respectful work environment. Provide guidance and leadership on complex employee issues, conduct thorough investigations, and ensure fair and consistent application of company policies. In the context of a manufacturing environment, experience with labor relations strategies is highly valued.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI)
Develop and lead the company’s DEI strategy, embedding principles of diversity, equity, and inclusion into all aspects of the employee lifecycle, from hiring and promotion to development and compensation.
Requirements for the Chief People Officer with a Growing Manufacturer – Pittsburgh, PA
Education
A Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field is required. An MBA or Master’s degree in a relevant discipline is strongly preferred.
Experience
A minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in Human Resources, with at least 7 years in a senior HR leadership capacity (e.g., VP of HR, CHRO) overseeing the entire HR function for a complex organization.
Industry Background
Significant experience within a manufacturing, industrial, distribution, or similar blue-collar environment is essential. The ideal candidate will understand the unique challenges and opportunities of managing a diverse, multi-site workforce.
Strategic Acumen
Proven ability to function as a strategic business partner to the CEO and executive team. Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing HR strategies that have successfully driven business results in a high-growth or transitional environment.
Certifications
Professional certifications such as SHRM-SCP or SPHR are highly desirable and indicative of a commitment to the profession.
Leadership Skills
Exceptional leadership and people management skills with a track record of building, mentoring, and motivating high-performing HR teams.
Communication & Influence
Superior communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills. The ability to build trust and influence at all levels of the organization, from the shop floor to the boardroom.
Analytical Mindset
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven approach to decision-making. Experience leveraging HR metrics and analytics to inform strategy and measure impact.
Change Management
Deep expertise in leading organizations through significant change, including rapid growth, mergers, acquisitions, or cultural transformation.
Benefits & Perks Offered
Our client is committed to investing in their employees and offers a highly competitive and comprehensive benefits package designed to support your professional and personal well-being. The package for this executive role includes:
Competitive Executive Compensation
A highly attractive base salary complemented by a significant performance-based annual bonus and long-term incentive/equity potential.
Comprehensive Health Coverage
Premium 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.
Generous Paid Time Off
A substantial paid time off (PTO) package, including vacation, sick days, and paid company holidays.
Professional Development
A dedicated budget for continuous learning, executive coaching, and participation in industry conferences and events.
Relocation Assistance
A comprehensive relocation package is available for the ideal candidate moving to the vibrant Pittsburgh area.
Work-Life Balance
A commitment to supporting a healthy work-life integration for all leaders within the organization.
How to Apply
JRG Partners has been exclusively retained for this critical search. To be considered for this exceptional opportunity, please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and interest in the role. All inquiries and applications will be held in the strictest confidence. We are committed to a transparent and efficient interview process for all qualified candidates.
If you are a visionary HR leader ready to make a lasting impact on a thriving organization, we encourage you to apply today. For more information about our expertise in this area, please visit the JRG Partners’ Human Resources Executive Search practice page.