Human Resources Director

A growing international manufacturer is expanding operations in the Columbia, TN area and is seeking a Human Resources Director to establish and lead all HR functions for a new U.S. manufacturing facility. This is a highly visible, standalone role offering the opportunity to build HR infrastructure from the ground up, partner directly with executive leadership, and help scale a workforce during an exciting period of growth.

This is an excellent opportunity for an HR professional who enjoys creating processes, driving culture, and making a meaningful impact within a growing manufacturing business.

Responsibilities:

• Lead all human resources activities for a growing manufacturing operation, serving as the site's primary HR resource.


• Develop and implement HR policies, procedures, employee handbook, and standard operating processes.


• Partner closely with senior leadership on workforce planning, organizational development, employee relations, and talent strategy.


• Manage full-cycle recruitment for hourly production and salaried positions, while coordinating with external staffing partners for workforce needs.


• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment regulations, including wage and hour laws, leave administration, and workplace policies.


• Oversee payroll administration, benefits programs, and HR systems implementation.


• Establish onboarding, performance management, employee engagement, and retention initiatives.


• Promote a strong culture centered on safety, accountability, teamwork, and operational excellence.


• Build and maintain relationships with community organizations, workforce development programs, educational institutions, and local business groups.


• Manage relationships with benefits providers, staffing agencies, and other HR vendors.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field.


• Minimum of 8 years of progressive HR experience, including leadership responsibilities.


• At least 4 years of HR experience supporting a manufacturing, industrial, or production environment.


• Demonstrated success working independently in a hands-on HR role with broad responsibilities.


• Strong knowledge of employment laws and regulations, including FLSA, FMLA, EEOC, and related compliance requirements.


• Experience creating HR processes, policies, and programs in a startup, greenfield, or high-growth environment preferred.


• Proven experience with talent acquisition, employee relations, payroll, and benefits administration.


• Strong communication, organizational, and relationship-building skills.


• SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, or SPHR certification preferred, or willingness to pursue certification.


• Comfortable serving as a visible ambassador for the company within the local business and manufacturing community.

Compensation & Benefits:

• $100,000 - $120,000


• 401(k) with company contribution


• Bonus opportunity


• Medical insurance with significant employer contribution toward employee and dependent coverage


• Two weeks of vacation to start


• Twelve paid holidays annually


• Standard Monday-Friday daytime schedule


• Direct partnership with executive leadership


• Opportunity to build and shape the HR function within a growing manufacturing organization


• Long-term career growth potential as the operation continues to expand