Employee Relations Partner, Rockford IL

Perfetti Van Melle, USA•Loves Park, IL

4d•$95,000 - $105,000

About The Position

Perfetti Van Melle (makers of Mentos and Airheads!) is one of the world's largest manufacturers and distributors of confectionery and chewing gum with global brands that are being enjoyed in more than 150 countries worldwide. We’re currently seeking a passionate and enthusiastic Employee Relations Partner based in Rockford, IL to join our growing team. The Employee Relations Partner supports hourly employees and supervisors by helping address workplace issues fairly and consistently. The role handles attendance, conduct, and performance concerns, investigates problems in a timely and objective manner, and works closely with supervisors and HR to determine appropriate next steps. This position provides guidance to leaders on how to address sensitive situations and ensures policies are applied consistently across all shifts. The Employee Relations Lead maintains accurate and confidential documentation, collaborates with HR and Operations to improve attendance and retention through better communication and follow-up, and supports engagement and recognition efforts that strengthen teamwork and accountability.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, or a related field.
3-5 years of experience specializing in employee relations and employment law, with exposure to broader human resources practices.
Prior experience in a 24/7 manufacturing environment required.
Trusted to handle private information and sensitive situations with good judgment.
Working knowledge of MS Office.
Working knowledge/experience of a HRIS System.
Proven track record developing empowered and autonomous front-line teams.
Knowledge of federal, state and local laws, statutes that govern employment policies and practices.
Thorough understanding and application of internal and external HR principles, concepts, practices and standards.
Proven track record developing teams and front-line leaders.
Experience rolling out change management processes.
Experience rolling out TPM/Lean or similar Continuous Improvement efforts.

Nice To Haves

Fluent in Spanish preferred.

Responsibilities

Be the main point of contact for hourly employee issues, making sure policies are applied fairly and consistently on all shifts.
Look into workplace concerns quickly and objectively, such as attendance, behavior, or performance issues.
Work with supervisors and HR to decide on next steps and help leaders handle difficult situations.
Keep detailed and confidential records of all employee relations discussions and outcomes.
Conduct investigations into attendance, conduct, and performance issues; document findings and follow up on outcomes.
Coach supervisors on progressive discipline, communication, and policy application.
Support leaders in handling attendance and performance concerns while promoting accountability and clear communication.
Monitor and track trends in employee relations activity and share insights with HR and Operations.
Support engagement efforts and recognition programs that build connection and reinforce positive workplace behavior.
Partner with HR and Legal on complex employee matters to ensure compliance with policies and labor laws.
Support the Engagement Committee and recognition programs to strengthen connection, communication, and accountability across the plant.