Opportunity
Kohler Co. is a global leader in the design and manufacture of innovative products and solutions, including kitchen and bath products and hospitality services. As a family-owned company, we are dedicated to fostering a culture of innovation, excellence, and sustainability. With over 150 years of experience and a global footprint, Kohler is committed to enhancing the lives of customers, employees, and communities through its products, services, and programs.
Position Overview: The Senior Director of Human Resources for Global Manufacturing will play a pivotal role in driving strategic HR initiatives across Kohler’s worldwide manufacturing network. This leader will partner with senior leadership, business units, and HR teams to shape and implement human resource strategies that support the company’s growth, operational excellence, and employee engagement. As the leader for HR across Kohler’s global manufacturing operations, this individual will be responsible for aligning talent strategy with business needs, ensuring a high-performance culture, and fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic HR Leadership:
Lead the development and execution of global HR strategies to support manufacturing excellence, employee engagement, and operational performance.Partner with executive leadership to understand business objectives and align HR strategies with organizational goals, including talent acquisition, development, and retention.Provide thought leadership on the HR implications of business changes, including plant expansions, restructurings, and new market entries.
Talent Management & Organizational Development:
Oversee talent acquisition strategies for manufacturing plants, ensuring that Kohler attracts top talent for key positions across global manufacturing operations.Lead initiatives related to leadership development, succession planning, and career development programs to build a pipeline of future leaders within the manufacturing environment.Ensure effective training and development programs to enhance employee skills, promote career growth, and improve business results.
Employee Relations & Engagement:
Foster a culture of inclusivity, respect, and collaboration across all manufacturing locations.Ensure the consistent application of HR policies and practices across regions while being sensitive to local customs, labor laws, and cultural norms.Address employee concerns and grievances promptly to maintain a positive working environment and enhance employee satisfaction.
HR Operations & Compliance:
Oversee HR operations, including compensation, benefits, and performance management, to ensure consistency, equity, and alignment with company policies and practices.Monitor and ensure compliance with local, national, and international labor laws and regulations in all regions where manufacturing operations are located.Partner with the legal team to mitigate potential risks related to labor issues, contracts, and employee relations.
Change Management & Transformation:
Lead change management efforts related to business transformations, including plant closures, mergers, acquisitions, and organizational restructuring.Manage the communication of changes to employees, ensuring transparency and minimizing resistance to change.Support continuous improvement initiatives by integrating HR practices into the company’s overall transformation strategy.
Global Manufacturing Network Support:
Collaborate with HR teams in regions across North America, Europe, Asia, and other markets to drive consistently in HR policies and practices.Be a strategic partner to plant managers, helping them navigate HR challenges and drive operational efficiency through effective workforce management.Provide hands-on support to resolve complex HR issues within manufacturing plants, including labor relations and employee disputes.