HR Director – Manufacturing – Chicago

Oakleaf Partnership; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading company is seeking an HR Director (HRBP) to oversee HR activities at their Chicago site, supporting leadership and driving talent strategies for approximately 700 employees. This proactive leader will manage workforce planning, compliance, and employee engagement while fostering a dynamic workplace culture.

Qualifications

• Solid understanding of HR fundamentals required.
• Experience in manufacturing and unionized environments preferred.
• Strong business acumen and project management skills necessary.

Responsibilities

• Manage workforce planning, compensation, and training.
• Lead staffing plans and talent development programs.
• Ensure adherence to compliance with employment laws.

Skills

Problem-Solving

Communication

Organizational Skills

Adaptability

Data Analysis

Tools

Workday

Kronos

MS Office

Job description

We are working with a major manufacturing client to identify their next HR lead for a site in Chicago.

We are looking for commercial, data driven HR professionals with the ambition to join a dynamic and fast moving business.

The HR Director (HRBP) will lead people-related activities at the site, supporting the Plant Manager and serving on the plant leadership team.

Reporting to the Director of HR, the HRBP will drive initiatives in organizational structure, talent strategies, and cultural transformation for approximately 700 employees.

Key Responsibilities

• HR Processes: Manage workforce planning, compensation, staffing, training, organizational change, and process improvement.

• Talent Development: Lead staffing plans, talent moves, and development programs.

• Labor Relations: Address employee concerns, handle grievances, and manage union labor strategies.

• Culture Building: Promote company values and act as a change champion.

• Employee Engagement: Build relationships and advocate for employee growth and satisfaction.

• Compliance: Ensure adherence to employment laws and HR policies.

• Analytics: Use data to guide business and talent decisions.

• Strategic Solutions: Tackle business challenges with effective recommendations.

Requirements

• Solid understanding of HR fundamentals.

• Experience in manufacturing and unionized environments.

• Strong business acumen and project management skills.

• Proficiency in workplace technologies (e.g., Workday, Kronos, MS Office).

• Effective communication with senior leadership.

• Strong organization, problem-solving, and adaptability.

• Ability to manage teams and multitask effectively.

This role requires a proactive leader who can drive transformation, foster engagement, and support both people and business goals.