Leader of People & Culture

ABOUT THE TRADESMEN GROUP:

The Tradesmen Group is a 100% employee-owned construction company specializing in the restoration and rehabilitation of historically significant structures across the eastern United States. With offices and yards serving Washington, D.C., and Nashville, TN, we are proud to preserve the past while building a purposeful future. Our mission is rooted in craftsmanship, integrity, and a shared commitment to excellence.

POSITION SUMMARY:

We are seeking a highly organized, strategic, and self-motivated Leader of People and Culture to join our team at our main office in Plain City, Ohio. This role is responsible for overseeing all aspects of Human Resources and leading the HR staff. You will play a pivotal role in shaping a connected, high-performing workforce aligned with our business goals and values. Your leadership will help foster our “Work with Purpose” culture—one that is inspiring, innovative, and creative.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Associate Relations

• Serve as a trusted resource for employees and managers regarding workplace concerns
• Investigate and resolve employee complaints, conflicts, and grievances in a fair and timely manner
• Promote a respectful and inclusive work environment through proactive communication and training
• Ensure consistent application of company policies and procedures
• Provide coaching and support to managers on employee relations issues and conflict resolution
• Maintain confidentiality and professionalism in handling sensitive matters

Compliance & Workplace Safety

• Ensure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws and regulations
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date employee records and documentation
• Oversee workplace safety training and OSHA compliance
• Conduct regular audits and risk assessments to ensure a safe work environment
• Collaborate with operations to address safety concerns and incident reporting
• Stay current on legal updates and implement necessary policy changes

Employment Policy Development

• Maintain and update employee handbook and HR policies
• Ensure policies reflect company values and legal standards
• Communicate policy changes clearly and consistently across the organization

Recruitment & Talent Acquisition

• Lead full-cycle recruiting, including:
• Partner with department heads to assess staffing needs and craft job descriptions
• Develop and execute strategies to attract top talent through career fairs, recruitment agencies, and digital platforms

Compensation & Benefits

• Oversee compensation programs including promotions, salary reviews, and bonuses
• Conduct market research and benchmarking to ensure competitive pay structures
• Administer employee benefits programs including health, dental, vision, retirement plans, and wellness initiatives
• Manage annual open enrollment and coordinate with benefits providers
• Address employee questions and concerns related to compensation and benefits
• Monitor compliance with federal and state compensation regulations (e.g., FLSA, ACA)
• Collaborate with finance to ensure accurate payroll processing and reporting
• Evaluate and recommend improvements to total rewards strategies to support retention and engagement

Talent & Skill Development

• Design and implement training programs to support career growth and skill advancement
• Promote continuous learning and leadership development across all levels
• Performance Management
• Manage and continuously improve performance review processes
• Train managers on effective feedback and coaching techniques
• Develop tools and resources to support goal-setting and performance tracking
• Identify performance gaps and recommend development plans
• Align performance metrics with company objectives and value

Employee Engagement & Retention

• Design and implement employee engagement surveys and analyze results
• Facilitate team-building activities and company-wide events
• Develop programs that promote inclusion, collaboration, and purpose
• Monitor turnover trends and exit interview feedback to inform retention strategies
• Create channels for employee feedback and ensure follow-up actions

Rewards & Recognition

• Develop and manage formal recognition programs (e.g., employee of the month, service awards)
• Encourage peer-to-peer recognition and appreciation initiatives
• Align recognition efforts with company values and performance outcomes
• Celebrate milestones such as promotions, anniversaries, and project completions

Employer Branding

• Champion the Tradesmen Group’s identity as an employer of choice
• Promote our culture and values through internal and external communications
• Collaborate with marketing to share employee stories and company achievements

Qualifications

• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in Human Resources, with at least 5 years as an HR Generalist
• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field required
• SPHR (Senior Professional in Human Resources) certification preferred
• Proven experience in HR leadership, preferably in construction or related industries
• Strong knowledge of employment law, HR best practices, and organizational development
• Demonstrated ability to lead HR initiatives across recruitment, compensation, performance management, and employee engagement
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and strategic thinking skills
• Ability to lead with empathy, integrity, and a passion for people