Description

Human Resources Director - Kuehne Company

The Human Resources Director is responsible for leading all HR functions for Kuehne’s New Jersey headquarters and multi-site operations, overseeing a team of HR professionals. This role combines strategic leadership with hands-on execution, ensuring that HR programs support the organization’s mission, operational goals, and compliance obligations within a safety-sensitive, manufacturing environment. The Director serves as a trusted partner to senior leadership while maintaining close visibility into day-to-day HR operations, including recruitment, employee relations, compensation, benefits, performance management, compliance, and career development.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

• Leads, mentors, and develops the Human Resources team to ensure efficient execution of departmental functions
• Recruits, interviews, hires, and trains new staff
• Oversees the daily workflow of the Human Resources department
• Provides constructive and timely performance evaluations
• Handles discipline and termination of employees in accordance with company policies and procedures

Essential Responsibilities:

Leadership & Strategy:

• Collaborate with executive leadership to align HR programs with organizational objectives, workforce planning needs, and company values
  Identify opportunities to improve retention, engagement, and internal advancement across all departments

Employee Wellness & Engagement:

• Lead and maintain Kuehne Company’s Three Pillars of Wellness programs: 
  • Physical Wellness: promoting health, safety, preventive care, and fitness initiatives
  • Mental & Emotional Wellness: supporting access to counseling resources, stress management tools, open communication, and a supportive work culture
  • Financial Wellness: managing benefits education, retirement readiness tools, and long-term stability planning
• Evaluate and enhance wellness program effectiveness through participation, feedback, and measurable outcomes

Talent Acquisition & Workforce Management:

• Oversee full-cycle recruitment, onboarding, and workforce planning for all locations
• Develop and maintain competitive compensation, benefits, and incentive programs
• Ensure consistent performance management processes, including coaching and corrective action when needed

Compliance & Risk Management:

• Maintain strict adherence to federal, state, and local employment laws, including OSHA, DOT, EEOC, FMLA, ADA, and TSA/TWIC-related requirements
• Develop, implement, and update HR policies, procedures, and employee handbooks
• Support safety initiatives in collaboration with operations leadership

Employee Relations & Culture:

• Serve as a resource and advisor to managers and employees for conflict resolution, performance matters, and interpretation of policies
• Promote a respectful, equitable, and accountable workplace culture
• Be a key resource of confidentiality for employees in need of support

HR Operations & Continuous Improvement:

• Manage HR systems, records, reporting, and departmental budgeting
• Manage and promote use of annual performance review software (Lattice) to promote a culture of continuous improvement and ensure employee engagement
• Recommend process improvements to enhance efficiency, data integrity, and employee experience
• Represent Kuehne at professional HR and industry-related events, as needed

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field required
Minimum of 8–10 years of progressive HR experience, with at least 5 years in leadership roles
PHR, SPHR, or SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP certified
Experience in manufacturing, industrial, logistics, or similarly regulated environments strongly preferred
Experience working in unionized environments, including familiarity with union rules, labor relations, and participation in negotiations
Working knowledge of multiple HR disciplines, including compensation, benefits and retirement plan administration, employee relations, performance management, and employment law
This position requires occasional travel to various company sites
A valid driver's license and reliable transportation are required for this role