Chief Human Resources Officer

BASIC FUNCTION:

The Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) is a key member of the executive leadership team, reporting directly to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO). The CHRO is responsible for developing and executing the overall human capital strategy in support of the organization's business plan and long-term growth objectives.

This role provides strategic leadership across all areas of human resources, including talent acquisition and retention, organizational development, performance management, compensation and benefits, compliance, safety, employee relations, and workforce planning. The CHRO will drive a high-performance culture aligned with the company's values and operational goals.

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Serve on the Senior Leadership Team as a strategic partner to the CEO and executive team on all people-related matters
• Develop and lead a comprehensive human capital strategy aligned with company growth and operational objectives
• Build and sustain a high-performance, employee-oriented culture emphasizing accountability, continuous improvement, and teamwork
• Establish and monitor key HR and workforce metrics to support data-driven decision-making
• Lead organizational design, succession planning, and leadership development initiatives
• Oversee company-wide talent acquisition strategy, including domestic and international recruiting efforts
• Direct performance management systems that align individual performance with company goals
• Design and oversee competitive compensation, benefits, and total rewards strategies
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations
• Provide executive oversight of employee relations, risk management, and workplace investigations
• Lead safety, workers' compensation, and risk mitigation programs across all operations & engage external legal counsel and advisors as necessary
• Oversee HRIS strategy, implementation, and optimization to support business intelligence and scalability
• Partner with operational leadership to support workforce planning and labor efficiency initiatives
• Guide change management initiatives related to growth, acquisitions, and operational improvements
• Manage HR budget and resource allocation to ensure effective and efficient operations
• Represent the organization in industry groups, workforce initiatives, and community engagement efforts

KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

• Strong executive leadership and strategic planning capabilities
• Deep knowledge of human resources management, employment law, and organizational development
• Demonstrated ability to build and lead high-performing teams
• Advanced analytical and problem-solving skills with a data-driven mindset
• Strong financial and business acumen
• Expertise in benefits design, evaluation, and optimization, including cost management and employee value alignment
• Working knowledge of visa and immigration processes, including compliance and workforce planning considerations
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills
• Experience with HRIS systems and workforce analytics tools
• Proven ability to lead change and influence at all levels of the organization

EDUCATION AND WORK EXPERIENCE:

• Bachelor's degree required; Master's degree (MBA or HR-related field) preferred
• Minimum of 10+ years of progressive HR leadership experience, including senior or executive-level roles
• Professional certification (SHRM-SCP, SPHR, or equivalent) preferred
• Experience in agriculture, production, or multi-site operations is a plus
• Equivalent combination of education and experience will be considered

MENTAL AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Demonstrated executive presence and ability to lead in a fast-paced, evolving environment
• Strong organizational and decision-making capabilities under pressure
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing business needs
• Willingness to travel to various operational sites as needed
• Ability to sit, stand, walk, and engage in occasional field visits, including farm environments