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# Human Resources Director (Manufacturing)


Role Overview for Human Resources Director (Manufacturing)
JRG Partners, a premier executive search firm specializing in connecting top-tier talent with industry-leading organizations, is actively seeking a highly strategic and results-oriented Human Resources Director (Manufacturing). This critical leadership role is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced HR professional to shape the human capital strategy within a dynamic manufacturing environment.
As an HR Director, you will be instrumental in fostering a culture of excellence, driving operational efficiency through effective HR practices, and ensuring the organization remains an employer of choice in a competitive industrial landscape. Your expertise will directly impact employee engagement, productivity, talent retention, and overall business success.
The successful candidate will be a visionary leader capable of translating business objectives into comprehensive HR strategies that support growth, innovation, and profitability. This role demands a deep understanding of manufacturing operations, including the unique challenges and opportunities related to workforce management, labor relations, safety protocols, and continuous improvement initiatives.
You will serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership, guiding decision-making on all HR-related matters, from talent acquisition and development to compensation, benefits, and compliance. This position is not merely about managing HR functions; it’s about strategically partnering with the business to build a resilient, high-performing workforce ready to meet the demands of modern manufacturing.
We are looking for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, hands-on environment, possessing the ability to balance strategic foresight with tactical execution. If you are passionate about developing people, optimizing processes, and making a tangible impact on a manufacturing organization’s success, JRG Partners invites you to explore this outstanding opportunity. Join a company where your contributions are valued, and your leadership can truly make a difference in shaping the future of its workforce.
Key Responsibilities of Human Resources Director (Manufacturing)
Strategic HR Leadership & Business Partnership
Develop and implement HR strategies, policies, and programs that are fully aligned with the manufacturing facility’s business goals and objectives. Act as a strategic partner to the plant manager and senior leadership team, providing expert guidance on organizational development, change management, talent management, and workforce planning. Translate complex business challenges into actionable HR solutions, ensuring human capital initiatives support operational excellence and drive productivity gains.
Talent Acquisition & Workforce Planning
Lead all aspects of talent acquisition for the manufacturing site, from executive searches to skilled labor recruitment. Develop innovative sourcing strategies to attract and retain top talent in a competitive market, focusing on critical roles within production, engineering, and operations. Implement robust onboarding programs to ensure new hires are integrated effectively and quickly become productive members of the team. Conduct proactive workforce planning to address current and future staffing needs, skills gaps, and succession planning.
Employee Relations & Engagement
Oversee all employee relations activities, ensuring fair and consistent application of company policies, labor laws, and collective bargaining agreements (if applicable). Provide expert guidance and support to managers and employees on conflict resolution, disciplinary actions, grievances, and performance management. Develop and implement programs designed to enhance employee engagement, morale, and retention, fostering a positive and productive work environment. Champion initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion within the manufacturing workforce.
Compensation & Benefits Management
Design, implement, and administer competitive compensation and benefits programs that attract, motivate, and retain employees. Conduct regular market analyses to ensure pay structures are externally competitive and internally equitable. Manage annual salary review processes, incentive plans, and benefits enrollment. Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local regulations pertaining to compensation and benefits. Effectively communicate benefits information to employees and manage vendor relationships.
Training & Development
Identify training and development needs across all levels of the manufacturing organization. Design and implement comprehensive training programs, including leadership development, technical skills training, safety training, and compliance training. Partner with operations to develop programs that enhance employee capabilities, support career progression, and foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement. Evaluate the effectiveness of training initiatives and adjust as needed.
Performance Management
Establish and manage a robust performance management system that drives accountability and encourages continuous improvement. Provide guidance to managers on setting clear objectives, conducting effective performance reviews, providing constructive feedback, and developing performance improvement plans. Link individual performance to organizational goals, ensuring that employee contributions are recognized and rewarded appropriately.
HR Compliance & Risk Management
Ensure the manufacturing facility’s HR practices are in full compliance with all federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations (e.g., FLSA, FMLA, ADA, OSHA, EEO). Develop and update HR policies and procedures to reflect current legal requirements and best practices. Manage HR-related investigations, audits, and reporting requirements. Mitigate HR risks by proactively addressing potential issues and implementing preventative measures. A strong understanding of workplace safety regulations and their application in a manufacturing setting is crucial.
HRIS & Data Analytics
Leverage HR information systems (HRIS) to streamline HR processes, improve data accuracy, and generate actionable insights. Oversee HR data management, reporting, and analytics to support strategic decision-making. Utilize HR metrics to identify trends, measure the effectiveness of HR programs, and report on key performance indicators (KPIs) related to human capital. Drive continuous improvement in HR technology utilization.
Organizational Development & Change Management
Lead organizational development initiatives, including restructuring, process improvements, and cultural transformation projects. Guide the organization through periods of significant change, ensuring smooth transitions and minimal disruption to operations. Develop communication plans and engagement strategies to foster employee understanding and buy-in during periods of change.
Health, Safety, and Environmental (HSE) Support
Collaborate closely with HSE teams to ensure a safe and healthy work environment. Support the development and implementation of safety policies and procedures, incident investigation, and workers’ compensation management. Promote a strong safety culture throughout the manufacturing plant, understanding that HR plays a vital role in reinforcing safe behaviors and compliance.
Requirements for the Human Resources Director (Manufacturing)
Educational Background
Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Industrial Relations, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree (e.g., MBA, MA in HR) is highly preferred and will be a significant advantage.
Professional Experience
A minimum of 10-15 years of progressive HR experience, with at least 5-7 years in a senior HR leadership role specifically within a manufacturing or industrial environment. Proven experience managing HR functions in a plant or multi-site manufacturing setting is essential.
Industry Knowledge
Demonstrated understanding of manufacturing operations, production cycles, lean manufacturing principles, and the unique HR challenges inherent in a plant environment (e.g., shift work, skilled trades, automation, safety culture).
Legal & Compliance Expertise
In-depth knowledge of federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations (e.g., FLSA, FMLA, ADA, OSHA, EEO, NLRA). Experience with unionized environments and collective bargaining is a strong plus.
Strategic Acumen
Ability to develop and execute HR strategies that align with business objectives and drive organizational performance. Proven track record of contributing to business results through HR initiatives.
Leadership & Communication Skills
Exceptional leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills (written and verbal). Ability to influence and build strong relationships with all levels of the organization, from the plant floor to the executive suite.
Analytical & Problem-Solving
Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret HR data, identify trends, and develop data-driven solutions. Excellent problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
Certifications
SHRM-SCP or SPHR certification is highly desirable.
Benefits & Perks Offered
JRG Partners’ client offers a highly competitive compensation package commensurate with experience, reflecting the strategic importance of this role. In addition to a robust base salary, this position includes a performance-based bonus structure and comprehensive benefits designed to support your well-being and professional growth. Benefits typically include:

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance plans with various options.
Life Insurance and Disability Coverage.
Generous Paid Time Off (PTO), including vacation, sick leave, and company holidays.
401(k) Retirement Plan with company match, helping you plan for your financial future.
Opportunities for professional development, continuing education, and leadership training.
Relocation assistance may be available for highly qualified candidates.
A dynamic, challenging, and supportive work environment where your contributions are valued and recognized.
Access to cutting-edge manufacturing technologies and a commitment to continuous improvement.

How to Apply
If you are a seasoned Human Resources leader with a proven track record in manufacturing environments and are ready to take on a pivotal role with a leading organization, we encourage you to apply. JRG Partners is committed to connecting exceptional talent with extraordinary opportunities.
To express your interest and submit your qualifications for this Human Resources Director (Manufacturing) position, please click the link below to visit our dedicated practice area page and submit your resume directly.
We look forward to reviewing your application and discussing how your expertise can contribute to our client’s continued success. JRG Partners ensures all applications are handled with the utmost confidentiality.
Explore Human Resources Recruitment Opportunities with JRG Partners