Description & Requirements Smurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW) is a global leader in sustainable paper and packaging solutions. We are materials scientists, packaging designers, mechanical engineers and manufacturing experts with a shared purpose: Innovate Boldly. Package Sustainably. Guided by our values of integrity, respect, accountability and excellence, we use leading science and technology to move fiber-based packaging forward.

We are seeking a highly experienced and knowledgeable Human Resources Manager to lead our Human Resources department at our mill located in Battle Creek, MI.  This role will play a key role in leading HR and Training for the mill operation. The selected candidate will serve as a trusted advisor to both employees and management and play a crucial role in developing a harmonious work environment. The ideal candidate will possess a comprehensive understanding of HR functions, excellent problem-solving skills, and the ability to provide strategic guidance on various HR matters with a strong focus in labor relations. This position reports directly to the Sr. Director Human Resources Consumer Mills.

 How you will impact WestRock: 

Provide comprehensive HR support to employees and management, acting as a point of contact for all HR-related inquiries, including compensation, employee relations, leave management, performance management, benefits, policies, and labor relations. Demonstrates compliance with all applicable local, State and Federal Laws including EEO, FMLA, HIPAA, ADA, and the Collective Bargaining Agreements.  Serve as primary point of contact for labor relations. This includes managing the grievance process, administration of the collective bargaining agreement, and assisting with labor union contract negotiations. Leading training and development for hourly and salary employees including the hourly operator training program and maintenance development program. This position will lead and coach the Training specialist on this initiative.        Conduct effective, thorough, and objective investigations into employee complaints, conflicts, and disciplinary issues, ensuring fair and consistent outcomes in accordance with company policies and the collective bargaining agreement. Coach and advise front-line employees and managers regarding employee relations policies, contractual labor agreements interpretation and proper operating procedures. Assist with the ADA interactive process and collaborate with Medical and the other HR staff regarding leave management. Partner with Talent Acquisition to manage the workforce plan to meet organizational goals, including monitoring hourly staffing levels, development of job descriptions, recruitment, selection process, onboarding, and assisting with compensation and training initiatives. Oversee the hourly payroll process to ensure accurate and timely payments of wages and items required in the Collective Bargaining Agreements. This also includes ensuring proper configuration and maintenance of the time and attendance system. Collaborate with HR leadership to design and deliver training programs for employees and managers on topics such as diversity and inclusion, performance management, labor relations, and workplace harassment. Assist with the performance management process and activities, including goal setting, performance appraisals, and development plans ensuring location meets established goals. Assist with annual benefits enrollment and other HR programs including open enrollment and employee communications. Assist with the local co-op and campus recruiting program by partnering with local universities and the WestRock Campus Recruiting team to provide a strong pipeline of technical talent. Support and participate in the administrative aspects of the human resources function including maintaining records and confidential employee files, providing monthly statistical and regulatory reporting, analyzing HR data, metrics and trends, providing recommendations to enhance HR processes and initiatives and managing payroll including annual labor processes. Responsible for conducting business with integrity and respect, being accountable, and actively pursuing excellence to help achieve WestRock’s Path To One goals 

 

What you need to succeed: 

Bachelor’s degree in HR, Business Administration, or a related field required.  Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in Human Resources, with a focus on labor relations, workforce planning, and payroll management, demonstrating increasing levels of responsibility preferably in a manufacturing or industrial environment  Prior experience in a labor union environment required. HR certification preferred (e.g., SHRM-CP, PHR or SHRM-SCP, SPHR)  Recruiting experience for technical, engineering, or manufacturing related positions preferred. Strong knowledge of HR laws, regulations, and best practices, with a track record of applying them effectively in a practical setting. Proficiency in HRIS systems, timekeeping systems, and other HR-related software. Experience in conducting investigations, resolving employee relations issues, and providing guidance on disciplinary actions. Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with employees at all levels of the organization. Demonstrated ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion and professionalism. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think strategically and provide innovative solutions. Proven ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment. High proficiency in MS Office Suite with strong Excel, Word, and PowerPoint skills. Aligned with our company values of Integrity, Respect, Accountability, and Excellence 

 

What we offer: 

Corporate culture based on integrity, respect, accountability and excellence Comprehensive training with numerous learning and development opportunities An attractive salary reflecting skills, competencies and potential A career with a global packaging company where Sustainability, Safety and Inclusion are business drivers and foundational elements of the daily work. 

 

 

Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.