Job Director, Human Resources

Director, Human ResourcesLocation: Waterbury, CT, US, 06705As a key member of the leadership team, the Director, Human Resources (HR) will drive a global people strategy that fuels business performance and cultivates a high-performing, inclusive culture. This role requires a dynamic leader who can think strategically, lead globally, and roll up their sleeves to drive and support day-to-day operations. The ideal candidate is a proactive business partner with a passion for talent development, operational excellence, and continuous improvement across the business.This position operates in a heavily matrixed environment, requiring strong collaboration and influence. The Director will have both direct reporting HR teams and will work closely with global shared service HR teams to align, drive, and execute HR initiatives that support both local and global business needs.What you will do:Strategic Leadership & Business PartnershipServe as a trusted advisor to the leadership team, aligning HR strategies with business goals to drive growth and transformation.Partner with global and cross-functional leaders to shape workforce strategies that support scalability, innovation, and operational excellence.Lead change management initiatives that enhance organizational agility and employee engagement.Act as a strategic connector between the business and shared service HR functions, ensuring seamless execution of business-wide programs.Global Team Leadership & Talent DevelopmentLead, mentor, and develop a high-performing HR team across geographies, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and continuous learning.Champion talent development programs that identify, grow, and retain top talent at all levels of the organization.Drive succession planning and leadership development initiatives to build future-ready teams.Operational Excellence & Hands-On SupportProvide hands-on support in key areas including recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, performance management, and workforce planning.Collaborate with managers to improve team effectiveness, morale, and retention through proactive coaching and support.Ensure HR operations are efficient, compliant, and aligned with best practices.Partner with shared services to ensure timely and accurate delivery of HR services, while identifying opportunities for process improvement and standardization.Culture & Continuous ImprovementPromote a culture that reflects company values, encourages innovation, and supports continuous improvement across all functions.Analyze HR and business metrics to identify trends and recommend data-driven solutions that enhance organizational performance.Lead initiatives to improve employee experience, engagement, and workplace culture.Compliance, Labor Relations, & BenefitsOversee compliance with employment laws and internal policies, including training and reporting requirements.Manage benefits administration, workers' compensation, and employee health and safety programs.We are looking for:Bachelor's degree in business, Human Resources, Labor Relations, or related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.7+ years of progressive HR leadership experience, ideally within a manufacturing or industrial environment.Proven experience managing HR functions across multi-site and global teams, with a demonstrated ability to navigate complex, matrixed organizations.Leadership & Strategic CapabilityStrong track record as a strategic business partner with the ability to influence and collaborate across all levels of the organization.Demonstrated success in leading talent development initiatives, including succession planning, leadership coaching, and employee engagement strategies.Comfortable operating at both strategic and tactical levels. Able to roll up sleeves and dive into day-to-day HR operations when needed.Skills & KnowledgeDeep understanding of HR best practices, employment law (Federal, State, and Local), and compliance requirements.Skilled in driving continuous improvement and change management initiatives across HR and business functions.Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills; able to build trust and credibility quickly.Proficient in Microsoft Office, HRIS (e.x. ADP, SuccessFactors), and data-driven decision making.Other RequirementsWillingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally ~25%