Head of Human Resources

Our client, an established design, licensing, and wholesale company is seeking an experienced Head of Human Resources to lead and oversee all aspects of its HR function. This is an opportunity to build upon existing HR practices, implement structure and best practices, and serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership.

The ideal candidate will be a seasoned, hands-on HR professional with experience in wholesale, apparel, accessories, consumer products, or branded goods. This individual must be comfortable operating independently as a one-person HR department while bringing strong leadership, sound judgment, and a practical approach to employee relations and HR operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all aspects of HR, including employee relations, talent acquisition, onboarding, off-boarding, performance management, benefits, and compliance.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership on employee matters, organizational decisions, and HR best practices.
• Evaluate existing HR policies and processes, identifying opportunities to introduce greater structure, consistency, and efficiency.
• Develop and implement a more formal performance review process, providing managers with guidance on employee development and accountability.
• Manage sensitive employee relations matters, including conflict resolution, disciplinary actions, and performance improvement.
• Partner with department leaders across design, production, sales, logistics, and operations to support workforce planning and business needs.
• Oversee the employee lifecycle, ensuring a consistent and positive employee experience.
• Manage the company's relationship with its Professional Employer Organization (PEO), which supports payroll and benefits administration.
• Ensure compliance with applicable employment laws and maintain accurate employee records and documentation.
• Support and strengthen company culture while building relationships with long-tenured employees and leadership.

Qualifications

• 15 years of progressive Human Resources experience, including experience in a senior HR leadership position.
• Background in wholesale, apparel, accessories, consumer products, licensing, or a similar brand-driven business strongly preferred.
• Experience managing HR independently within a small or midsize organization.
• Strong employee relations expertise and demonstrated ability to navigate complex personnel matters.
• Experience developing HR policies, implementing performance management processes, and improving HR operations.
• Working knowledge of payroll, benefits, HR compliance, and PEO relationships.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and relationship-building skills.
• Strong executive presence, sound judgment, and the confidence to make decisions and provide thoughtful guidance to leadership.
• Highly organized, adaptable, and comfortable balancing strategic responsibilities with hands-on execution.