HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER, KITCHENER, ON – #5664
IN DEMAND Recruitment & Consulting Inc. is currently looking to hire a HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER for a client in Kitchener, ON.
The Human Resources Manager will serve as the lead HR representative at the site level, overseeing the application and execution of company-wide HR frameworks while customizing local initiatives to enhance business outcomes and workforce engagement. This individual will act as a strategic partner and hands-on contributor, ensuring that people strategies align with business objectives while fostering a productive, inclusive, and safe work environment.
This role requires broad expertise across HR disciplines, balancing strategic planning with day-to-day HR operations. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with corporate functional groups and local leadership to deliver high-impact solutions in talent management, employee relations, compliance, and health and safety.
JOB DESCRIPTION:
Leadership & Strategy
- Participate as a key member of the site’s leadership team, contributing to plant-level strategy through HR leadership
- Support execution of company-wide initiatives and local HR strategies that drive employee engagement and operational performance
- Act as a trusted advisor to the Plant Manager and provide coaching to site leadership
- Maintain awareness and enforcement of current employment legislation, company policies, and regulatory requirements
- Lead resolution of complex employee relations issues with professionalism and fairness
- Build connections with local HR networks to benchmark practices and stay informed of regional labor trends
- Monitor HR metrics and propose action plans for improvement
Employee & Labor Relations
- Foster a positive labor-management climate through consistent, respectful communication and fair application of policies
- Represent management in labor discussions, contract negotiations, and grievance resolution
- Ensure compliant and effective administration of collective agreements
Health, Safety & Environment (HSE)
- Champion health and safety culture on site and support compliance with all corporate and legal HSE standards
- Manage injury reporting and return-to-work programs, ensuring timely reporting and regulatory alignment
- Act as site liaison during inspections and audits
- Maintain accurate records and drive HSE improvement initiatives
Training & Development
- Develop and execute training plans aligned with operational needs and industry standards (e.g., ISO 9001)
- Deliver or coordinate compliance and in-house training programs
- Collaborate with corporate talent development teams to ensure alignment with organizational frameworks
Talent Acquisition & Onboarding
- Oversee full-cycle recruitment in partnership with hiring managers
- Ensure fair and compliant hiring practices across all open roles
- Coordinate onboarding and orientation programs to integrate new hires effectively
Performance & Talent Management
- Lead the performance review process and ensure consistent application of development plans
- Support deployment of talent tools (e.g., 9-box grids) to identify and grow high-potential employees
Compensation & Benefits
- Stay informed of regional compensation and benefits trends to support market competitiveness
- Administer total rewards programs locally and provide feedback to corporate teams on service quality and employee experience
- Manage enrollment and communications related to benefits and retirement plans using internal HRIS platforms
Engagement & Communication
- Partner with plant leadership to develop action plans based on employee feedback and engagement results
- Drive clear and consistent communication across all levels of the workforce
QUALIFICATIONS:
- Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field (HR certification is an asset)
- 5+ years of progressive HR experience, preferably in manufacturing background is advantageous
- Proven experience in unionized environments, including contract administration and negotiations
- Strong interpersonal and influencing skills across various organizational levels
- Experience working in a matrixed, global environment
- Familiarity with HR systems and payroll processes
- Comfortable with technical concepts and willing to engage in continuous learning
- Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
Why this is a great opportunity!
Competitive Pay & Comprehensive Benefits
Robust Retirement Program – Includes automatic employer contributions and additional matching incentives for a market-leading savings plan
Work-Life Flexibility – Adaptable working hours to support personal and professional balance
Employee Wellness Support – Free access to health and wellness coaching through our Employee Assistance Program
Growth-Oriented Culture – We value learning and prioritize career development and internal advancement
Qualified and interested individuals are encouraged to apply to info@indemand.ca
ONLY QUALIFIED CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED