Chief People Officer

THE OPPORTUNITY

• This is the top HR leadership position in a growing company where you can shape and execute people strategy across 12 locations in the Midwest.
• In this position, you’ll be leading organizational growth, and culture during an expansion phase for the company. You will also continue to develop the HR function within the organization.
• This is an outstanding strategic & hands-on position, blending the company’s mission and practical execution with visible results.

ABOUT THE COMPANY

Founded in 1963 and headquartered in Middletown, Ohio, Akers Packaging Service Group is a family-owned corrugated packaging manufacturer with 14 locations across the Midwest and more than 550 employees. From the very beginning, Akers built its reputation by prioritizing customer service and speed—delivering same- or next-day solutions long before “just-in-time” became an industry standard. Today, they continue that legacy by designing and delivering custom packaging solutions that protect products, support efficient supply chains, and keep their customers moving.

What sets Akers apart is how they approach the work. They don’t just focus on what their customers make—they focus on who they are. Akers builds relationships rooted in trust, responsiveness, and accountability, supported by a team that operates with a true family mindset. Guided by their values—Help First, Take Ownership, Do the Right Thing, and Expect Excellence—their people are empowered to act quickly, solve problems, and support one another. It’s this foundation that allows Akers to grow alongside their customers and create a place where people want to work and stay.

WHAT YOU’LL BE DOING

Reporting to the President, the Chief People Officer will have responsibility for leading the HR function for the organization. This person will be accountable for the continued development, improvement, implementation and coordination of the policies, practices, and systems for all locations. This role will establish this consistency throughout the organization while also reinforcing the positive culture and employee experience at each facility.

As part of the Akers Packaging executive team, this person will collaborate with key leaders on business decisions and the supporting HR initiatives to provide the organization with the best practices which will help position Akers as an employer of choice.

Although this role is onsite at the headquarters, the Chief People Officer will be expected to travel to each location as necessary. You will manage a team of 5 across locations. Specifically, responsibilities of this role will include:

Strategic HR Leadership

• Develop and execute HR strategies that align with business growth and operational goals.
• Partner with executive leadership on organizational design, workforce planning, talent and development, and employee engagement.
• Support future acquisitions through due diligence and integration.
• Lead and mentor the internal HR team and staff.

Multi-Site Workforce Management

• Oversee HR operations across multiple states and sites, ensuring compliance and consistency.
• Advise and mentor regional HR Managers on their execution tactics with a focus on recruiting, workforce planning, HR compliance and employee engagement and retention.
• Implement policies and programs that reflect both local regulations and company values.
• Foster positive employee relations by serving in an advisory capacity to the management team and people.
• Deliver a positive and consistent employee experience across locations.

Staffing and Talent Management

• Lead the staffing and talent strategies for all salaried and hourly positions across the company.
• Establish and track key performance indicators to ensure the company’s talent contributions to operational objectives are met.
• Recruit and onboard employees in alignment with company and departmental goals to ensure that the organization attracts and retains the right talent.
• Coordinate and track employee training and development to support current and future talent needs.
• Ensure the design and implementation of talent management processes at all levels including employee development, career development, performance evaluations, succession planning and management development programs and procedures.

Culture, Compliance & Engagement

• Ensure compliance with all relevant state and federal laws regarding employment, EEO, ERISA record retention.
• Champion employee engagement, communication, and retention programs.

Compensation, Benefits, & Systems

• Continue to review and enhance competitive compensation and benefits plans reflecting industry standards and company strategy.
• Lead benefit selection, broker negotiations, and plan administration.
• Optimize HRIS and data-driven tools for reporting and decision-making.

IDEAL CANDIDATE QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s Degree (BA or BS) in Human Resources, business administration or related field
• Minimum 10 years’ experience in HR in a multi-site organization (at least 4 locations)
• SHRM-SCP and/or SPHR preferred
• Familiarity with EOS helpful
• Strong leadership, teamwork, change management and program management skills
• Demonstrated experience attracting and developing top talent
• Successful development and implementation of succession plans
• Demonstrated knowledge of employee benefits and compensation policies and procedures
• Demonstrated general business acumen as a member of senior management business team
• Ability to read, analyze, interpret statutory law, case law and legal journals, financial reports and legal documents

THE PAYOFF

• Influence business strategy as a key member of the leadership team while executing HR initiatives .
• Thrive in a fast-paced, growth-focused environment with autonomy to make a difference.

OUR COMMITMENT TO CANDIDATES

Gilman Partners is committed to strengthening leadership teams and elevating talent in our communities—and that means all qualified applicants will receive consideration. You do not have to meet every qualification in this job description to apply. If you’re drawn to the position and believe your experience makes you a good fit, we encourage you to apply.