About Canlak Coatings
Canlak Coatings is a leading manufacturer of innovative wood coatings, bringing together trusted brands and best-in-class service for professionals across North America. With over 121 years of heritage and a commitment to quality, we serve diverse markets including OEM, Sports/Gym, and Commercial/Residential floors. As part of the SK Capital Partners portfolio, we are building a world-class specialty coatings platform focused on growth and operational excellence.
Position Overview
We are seeking an experienced HR Director to join our leadership team, drive the transformation of our HR function, and lead our broader HR North American/Canadian organization. This role will be instrumental in building our "ONE Canlak" vision and implementing strategic HR initiatives that support our growth objectives.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
- Partner with the executive team to develop and execute HR strategies that align with Canlak's business objectives and support our transformation initiatives
- Lead the modernization and improvement of HR functions across Canadian HR operations while maintaining alignment with US HR practices
- Drive change management initiatives to support the "ONE Canlak" vision and cultural transformation
- Develop and implement HR policies and programs that promote employee engagement and retention
- Strategy and participation in development of overall Leadership Development programs to help reduce turnover and drive overall performance.
HR Operations Management
- Oversee all aspects of Canadian HR operations, including recruitment, compensation, benefits, employee relations, and compliance
- Manage Canadian payroll processing and serve as backup for US payroll operations
- Ensure compliance with employment laws while maintaining awareness of US federal and state employment legislation
- Lead US HR counterpart to create unified HR processes and best practices across North America
Talent Management & Development
- Design and implement recruitment strategies to attract top talent
- Create programs for employee development and succession planning
- Partner with leadership to identify and develop high-potential employees
- Lead performance management processes and tools implementation
Employee Relations & Culture
- Foster a positive workplace culture that aligns with Canlak's values of Innovation, Teamwork, Quality, and Customer Centricity
- Provide guidance to managers on employee relations matters
- Develop and implement employee engagement initiatives
- Support conflict resolution and employee advocacy
Qualifications
Preferred Experience & Education
- Bachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field
- Minimum 8 years of progressive HR experience, including 5+ years in a senior HR role
- HR Certification designation
- Manufacturing industry experience preferred
- Experience working in a private equity-owned business environment is a plus
Knowledge & Skills
- Bilingual in French and English. Spanish a plus.
- Strong knowledge of employment legislation and HR best practices
- Basic understanding of US and Canadian employment laws and HR practices
- Demonstrated experience in change management and organizational development
- Strong business acumen and strategic thinking capabilities
- Experienced in project management and process improvement
- Advanced proficiency in HRIS systems (ADP) and Microsoft Office suite
Leadership Qualities
- Strong executive presence and ability to influence at all levels of the organization
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Proven ability to lead through change and ambiguity
- Results-oriented with a focus on continuous improvement
- Collaborative approach to problem-solving and decision-making
What We Offer
- Opportunity to shape the future of a growing organization
- Competitive compensation package
- Comprehensive benefits program
- Professional development opportunities
- Collaborative and dynamic work environment
Canlak Coatings is an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates.