Human Resources; HR Director Appleton, WI

Human Resources Director

We are looking for an experienced Human Resources Director to guide people strategy for a growing division in Appleton, Wisconsin. This leader will work closely with senior management to connect workforce planning, leadership development, and organizational design with business priorities. The role oversees key HR programs across talent, culture, employee engagement, and compensation while supporting a diverse employee population in manufacturing, commercial, and functional teams.

This position also provides direct leadership to an HR Generalist and serves as a trusted advisor to division leadership.

Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with division leadership to shape people strategies that support long-term plans, annual objectives, and day-to-day business goals.
• Translate business needs into practical HR initiatives by evaluating workforce capabilities, identifying gaps, and recommending actions that strengthen organizational performance.
• Lead efforts to develop managers and future leaders through coaching, succession planning, talent reviews, and performance development processes.
• Build effective hiring and onboarding strategies that help attract, select, and retain high-quality talent while encouraging inclusive recruiting practices.
• Guide organizational structure decisions by advising leaders on team design, role alignment, and methods to improve overall effectiveness.
• Champion a positive and accountable workplace environment by supporting engagement initiatives, strengthening communication, and addressing employee relations matters.
• Oversee compensation-related programs for exempt employees, including planning support for incentives, recognition efforts, and program communication.
• Direct core HR activities for a workforce of approximately 240 employees across multiple functions while supervising one HR Generalist.
• Partner with leaders on change initiatives and help teams adapt successfully to evolving business priorities and operational needs.