HR Manager Lead - Nashville

Job Purpose

This role serves as the Human Resources lead for the Powder Cluster and acts as the Human Resources business partner for the Nashville Powder site, End-to-End Planning and Service, and Regional Distribution Centers. The position is responsible for delivering operational Human Resources services in alignment with both the business and functional priorities, as well as the broader Human Resources agenda. By providing high-quality advice and guidance grounded in solid Human Resources expertise, professionalism, and a deep understanding of AkzoNobel’s strategy and practices, this role helps regional business units and site-level functions achieve their objectives. When necessary, the position leads employee and industrial relations efforts, engaging with both international and local union representatives. It also collaborates with other parts of the Human Resources operating model, including People Services and Centers of Expertise, to ensure a seamless and high-quality service for internal stakeholders. Additionally, the role works closely with other functional Human Resources managers and advisors to coordinate activities, maintain service continuity, and provide comprehensive Human Resources support across the region

Responsibilities

Employee Lifecycle Management

• Coach and support managers in executing annual employee processes (performance and development, talent management, reward cycles).
• Guide managers to appropriate HR resources, including People Services and Centers of Expertise (CoEs).
• Facilitate performance, development, and talent calibration processes.
• Lead operational workforce planning with business/functions.
• Provide day-to-day coaching on recruitment, development, restructuring, and employee management (e.g., performance issues, absence).
• Support job evaluation, pay, and reward discussions in collaboration with the Regional Rewards CoE.
• Identify learning needs and partner with CoEs to deliver training solutions and global learning initiatives.
• Work with managers to identify, develop, and retain talent, ensuring succession planning and talent pipelines.
• Promote employee engagement, communication, and participation in local events.
• Role model company values and leadership behaviors.

Operational Excellence

• Lead or support standardization and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Ensure global HR processes are implemented locally.
• Promote and explain the HR Operating Model, directing stakeholders to correct resources.
• Address data inaccuracies and ensure use of self-service tools.
• Act as local CoE champion for initiatives such as training or rewards.
• Monitor service quality and provide feedback for improvement.
• Provide HR data analytics and insights to business leaders.

Compliance

• Ensure compliance with local labor laws and HR policies; engage legal counsel when needed.
• Promote the AkzoNobel Speak Up process and participate in investigations.
• Manage local labor relations, including unions and works councils.
• Advise managers and employees on employee relations and labor disputes.
• Participate in internal and external audits.
• Provide HR input for internal compliance processes such as “In Control.”

Other

• Perform other duties as required to ensure smooth HR operations.

Job Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree (required).

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in a Human Resources generalist role (preferred).

• At least 2 years of labor relations experience (preferred).

• Fluent in English, both written and spoken.

• Strong service orientation with a solution-focused mindset.

• Comfortable working with a degree of ambiguity.

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with strong interpersonal abilities, both one-on-one and in groups.

• Proven ability to thrive in a fast-paced, complex environment while meeting tight deadlines.

• Willingness and ability to travel as needed.

Rewards & Benefits

The salary range for these skills is $120,000.00 - $130,000.00.  This is the range that we in good faith anticipate relying on when setting wages for this position. We may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range. This salary range may also be modified in the future.

Perks for Joining AkzoNobel!  
Medical insurance with HSA • Dental, Vision, Life, AD&D benefits • Annual bonus • 401K retirement savings with 6% company match • Generous vacation, personal and holiday pay • Paid Parental leave • Active Diversity and Inclusion Networks • Career growth opportunities on a regional and global scale • Tuition Reimbursement • Career growth opportunities • Employee referral bonus 

Key Behavioural Competencies

• Influencing and problem solving skills
• Business acumen
• Conceptual, analytical and result-oriented approach
• Interpersonal, integrity and relationship skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Customer-oriented