HR Manager – Automotive Manufacturing (U.S. Operations)
Location: Cincinnati, OH (suburbs) or Lexington, KY (suburbs)
Industry: Automotive Manufacturing
Employment Type: Full-time
Working Model: Onsite
A leading Japanese automotive manufacturer is expanding its U.S. operations and is seeking an experienced Human Resources Manager to join its growing team. This is a high-impact role offering the opportunity to shape HR strategy and lead employee and labor relations across multiple manufacturing sites.
Reporting under general supervision, this role is responsible for managing a broad range of HR functions in support of plant associates and leadership. The HR Manager will play a key role in driving employee engagement, strengthening labor relations, and aligning HR initiatives with business objectives.
Key Responsibilities:
- Build and maintain strong relationships with unionized employees and leadership
- Lead labor relations activities, including contract negotiations, grievance handling, and arbitration
- Oversee employee relations matters such as performance management, discipline, and terminations
- Ensure compliance with all employment laws and company policies
- Develop and implement HR strategies aligned with overall business goals
- Identify training needs and design effective development programs
- Manage full-cycle recruitment processes for both hourly and salaried positions
- Oversee plant-level hiring and workforce planning
- Administer performance appraisal systems and advise plant leadership
- Coach and support managers on HR policies, procedures, and best practices
- Drive initiatives that enhance employee engagement, retention, and organizational effectiveness
- Foster a positive and productive employee relations environment across sites
Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field (or equivalent experience)
- 5+ years of progressive HR experience in automotive or manufacturing environments
- Demonstrated experience in union environments, including negotiations and labor relations
- Strong knowledge of HR systems, metrics, and data-driven decision making
- Familiarity with Japanese business culture and communication style is a strong plus
Leadership:
- Direct supervisory responsibility for HR staff and professionals
