Human Resources Manager

Our client is seeking a strategic, hands-on Human Resources Manager to lead HR operations across two manufacturing facilities in Michigan and Minnesota, supporting approximately 360 employees. This role partners closely with executive leadership and operational teams to develop and implement HR strategies that support business performance, workforce development, employee engagement, and organizational growth. The ideal candidate combines strong business acumen with a broad HR background and a practical understanding of manufacturing environments. This individual will oversee all aspects of Human Resources, including talent acquisition, employee relations, payroll, benefits, compliance, training, and organizational development, while building a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and employee growth. Key Responsibilities Strategic HR Leadership Partner with executive leadership to align HR strategies with business objectives, operational priorities, and financial goals. Lead workforce planning, succession planning, organizational development, and employee retention initiatives. Support organizational change, restructuring, facility expansion, and other business transformation efforts. Establish and maintain HR policies, procedures, and best practices that promote consistency, efficiency, and compliance. Talent Acquisition & Workforce Planning Oversee recruiting for hourly, salaried, technical, and leadership positions across both facilities. Lead onboarding and orientation initiatives to ensure a positive and effective new-hire experience. Develop succession planning and internal advancement strategies to strengthen the talent pipeline. Evaluate staffing levels and organizational structures to support productivity and operational needs. Employee Relations & Compliance Serve as the primary HR resource for employee relations, investigations, conflict resolution, corrective action, and policy interpretation. Coach managers on performance management, employment law, leadership effectiveness, and employee development. Promote a positive workplace culture centered on accountability, communication, engagement, and continuous improvement. Ensure compliance with applicable federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations. Payroll, Benefits & HR Systems Oversee payroll systems, employee records, data integrity, compensation administration, and HR reporting. Manage employee benefits, including medical, dental, vision, retirement, life insurance, disability, and leave programs. Lead annual open enrollment, employee communications, benefits education, and implementation. Oversee FMLA, COBRA, workers' compensation, unemployment, and other applicable programs. Maintain compliance with relevant employment, workplace safety, privacy, and wage-and-hour requirements. Manage relationships with payroll providers, insurance brokers, benefits carriers, retirement administrators, and other HR vendors. Training & Organizational Development Partner with Operations, Quality, Safety, and other departments to develop training and employee development programs. Establish structured onboarding, leadership development, cross-training, certification, and career progression initiatives. Coordinate required compliance training and evaluate program effectiveness. Maintain accurate employee training and certification records to support regulatory and customer audits. Identify opportunities to improve HR processes, strengthen management capabilities, and enhance workforce performance. Qualifications Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field. Seven or more years of progressive Human Resources experience, preferably in manufacturing or food manufacturing. Experience leading HR functions across multiple facilities or locations. Broad knowledge of employee relations, recruiting, payroll, benefits administration, HRIS, and organizational development. Strong understanding of employment law, compensation, workforce planning, and manufacturing operations. SHRM-SCP, SPHR, or equivalent certification preferred. Demonstrated ability to partner effectively with executive leadership, plant management, and employees at all levels. Strong communication, project management, analytical, and problem-solving skills. A continuous improvement mindset and the ability to balance strategic initiatives with hands‑on HR responsibilities. What You'll Bring The successful candidate will be a trusted business partner who understands the connection between people, operational performance, and business results. They will bring sound judgment, a collaborative leadership style, and the ability to develop practical HR solutions that strengthen the workforce, support manufacturing operations, and position the organization for continued success. #J-18808-Ljbffr