Manager, Human Resources-Plant

Based in our Corporate Headquarters in Schaumburg, IL, Mizkan America is a subsidiary of the Mizkan Group, a global, family-owned company that has been Bringing Flavor to Life™ for over 220 years. As one of the leading makers of vinegars, condiments, and sauces in the United States, Mizkan America maintains 12 manufacturing facilities that serve the retail, foodservice, specialty-Asian and food-ingredient trade channels. We are committed to following our two core principles: continuously challenging the status quo and delivering only the finest products for our customers. Our leadership seeks out, embraces, and implements ideas for improvement from all of its employees.

Transparency and accountability are two key factors that drive our company’s overall management approach.

We are looking for people who are seeking to deliver their best so that we can deliver ours. Above all, we’re dedicated to maximizing the potential of our greatest assets—our team members. That’s reflected in our ongoing commitment to recruit, develop, reward, and retain our talented, multicultural workforce. We hope to see you as part of our team’s future success!

POSITION SUMMARY:   

The Manager, Human Resources – Plant is responsible for managing, directing, and supporting all Human Resources activities for multiple manufacturing plant locations. This role serves as the primary HR Business Partner to Plant Managers and site leadership teams, providing strategic and hands‑on HR leadership across the full employee life cycle.

Key areas of responsibility include change management, recruitment, compensation, performance management, training and development, employee relations, compliance, organizational planning, and workforce engagement. As a member of the plant leadership teams, this role supports company‑wide initiatives, goals, and cultural principles while ensuring compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local employment laws.

Essential Functions:

• Perform all duties and responsibilities in accordance with Mizkan America safety policies, OSHA regulations, GMP (Good Manufacturing Practices), and SOP (Standard Operating Procedures).
• Serve as a trusted advisor to plant leadership, appropriately balancing the role of company representative and employee advocate
• Act as the primary HR Business Partner to Plant Managers and leadership teams, participating in regular leadership meetings and providing guidance on employee relations, communications, and workforce strategy
• Demonstrated expertise in leading complex employee relations investigations, with a strong ability to conduct, thoroughly document, and effectively resolve matters involving ethics, policy violations, and employee complaints, while partnering closely with plant and corporate leadership to mitigate risk and uphold organizational integrity.
• Advise and coach leaders on corrective action and disciplinary matters, ensuring consistency and compliance
• Coach and guide employees and leaders on HR‑related questions, concerns, and issues
• Provide leadership for change management efforts, workforce engagement initiatives, communication planning, pulse checks, and employee feedback activities
• Support the development and execution of employee training and development programs, including delivery of training as needed
• Lead and drive the annual performance management process, including goal setting, feedback, and development planning
• Advise and coach leaders on corrective action and disciplinary matters, ensuring consistency and compliance
• Oversee site onboarding and offboarding processes to ensure positive employee experience and accurate documentation
• Ensure HR policy compliance and maintain current knowledge of employment laws, regulations, and best practices in coordination with legal and corporate HR partners
• Monitor legislative and regulatory changes and ensure compliance with all applicable wage and hour, equal employment, and labor regulations
• Lead recruitment strategies for plant leadership and professional roles, including retention initiatives and succession planning
• Provide oversight and guidance to site administrative staff supporting hourly and internal recruitment processes
• Ensure accuracy and integrity of payroll, personnel, and employee medical records across all supported sites
• Support affirmative action and government compliance programs, including recordkeeping and reporting requirements
• Provide reporting and analysis related to compensation, benefits, and workforce metrics in collaboration with Corporate Human Resources
• Mentor and develop direct reports to build HR capability and effectiveness
• Participate in special projects and initiatives in support of HR strategy and business objectives
• Perform other duties assigned that support the overall success of the team, department, or organization This may include participating in cross-functional initiatives, contributing to process improvements, or assisting with special projects as needed
• This list is intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed. This is not an exhaustive list of all responsibilities required for this role
• Regular, predictable, in-person attendance on the business days the Company requires in-person attendance at this facility. Ability to support shifts as needed

Key Skills/Competencies: 

• Strong business partnering and consultative skills
• Self‑directed with the ability to manage multiple priorities independently
• Expertise in positive employee relations and proactive workforce engagement
• Effective change management and communication skills
• Strong written and verbal communication abilities
• Investigation, problem‑solving, and sound decision‑making skills
• Complaint handling and conflict resolution expertise
• Individual performance coaching and development
• Compensation and benefits analysis knowledge
• Experience supporting both salaried and hourly recruitment
• High attention to detail, responsiveness, and follow‑through
• Training program development and facilitation skills
• Outstanding written, interpersonal, and presentation skills with the ability to influence and lead at all organizational levels
• Strong business acumen, judgment, and ability to make timely, sound decisions
• Flexible, adaptable, and able to manage competing priorities in a fast‑paced environment

Education/Experience/Qualifications/Certifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in human resources, Business, or a related field required; professional HR certification preferred
• Five (5) to ten (10) years of Human Resources management or HR Business Partner experience supporting manufacturing environments with 100+ employees
• Demonstrated experience in change management and positive employee relations
• Strong working knowledge of employment law, affirmative action, equal employment regulations, benefits, compensation, and recruiting
• Multi‑site manufacturing experience preferred

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $100,800-$140,900

Physical Requirements and Work Conditions:

• This position is performed in both office and manufacturing plant environments
• Prolonged periods of sitting while working at a computer and performing administrative and strategic tasks
• Frequent use of hands and fingers for typing, handling documentation, and operating standard office equipment
• Regular standing, walking, bending, and moving throughout manufacturing facilities, including production areas
• Exposure to a manufacturing environment, including noise, temperature variations, and required use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
• Ability to view computer screens and printed materials for extended periods with accuracy
• Occasional lifting and carrying of materials or files weighing up to 25 pounds
• Ability to communicate effectively in person, by telephone, and through electronic communication
• Ability to maintain focus and attention to detail while managing complex and sensitive matters

Compensation is based on a number of factors including market location and may vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills and experience. Short-Term Incentive and other forms of compensation may also be provided as part of a total compensation package.

A full range of medical, dental, vision, 401K plus up-to-four percent (4%) match, profit sharing, wellness program, paid parental leave, long-term-care insurance, critical accident insurance, short- and long-term disability and education assistance are also available.

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