Senior Manager HR & Safety (Fairfield County)

OverviewThe Senior Manager, Human Resources & Safety is responsible for leading all human resources and workplace safety functions across multiple manufacturing locations. Reporting to senior HR leadership, this role partners closely with operations and plant leadership to support a high-performing, people-centered culture aligned with organizational values.The position provides strategic and hands-on leadership for an employee population of approximately 350 and serves as a key member of the leadership team, championing employee engagement, regulatory compliance, safety excellence, and organizational effectiveness.Human Resources LeadershipServe as the senior HR leader across multiple manufacturing facilities.Partner with senior HR and operations leadership to align people strategies with business goals.Provide guidance and leadership in employee relations, performance management, workforce planning, and organizational development.Ensure consistent application of HR policies, practices, and employment laws across all locations.Lead talent acquisition efforts, including recruiting, onboarding, and workforce planning.Drive employee engagement initiatives that reinforce organizational culture and values.Employee Relations & CultureAct as a trusted advisor to leaders and employees on complex and sensitive employee matters.Promote a respectful, inclusive, and positive workplace environment.Investigate and resolve employee concerns and workplace issues promptly and equitably.Support leadership development through coaching and guidance.Safety LeadershipLead and oversee workplace safety programs across manufacturing sites and corporate functions.Ensure compliance with OSHA and other applicable safety regulations.Partner with site leadership to foster a proactive, prevention-focused safety culture.Analyze safety data and performance metrics to reduce incidents and improve outcomes.Coordinate and standardize safety training across all locations.Compliance & Risk ManagementEnsure compliance with federal, state, and local employment laws across multiple jurisdictions.Maintain and update HR and safety policies, procedures, and the employee handbook.Manage audits, reporting, and documentation related to HR and safety compliance.Organizational EffectivenessSupport performance management, goal setting, reviews, development planning, and succession planning.Identify training and development needs and coordinate learning initiatives.Drive continuous improvement of HR processes, systems, and tools.Multi-Site LeadershipProvide functional leadership to site-based HR and Safety professionals.Ensure consistency in HR and safety practices while accommodating site-specific needs.Travel regularly to manufacturing locations to build relationships and provide on-site support.Job RequirementsDemonstrated ability to partner effectively with senior leaders across HR and operations.Strong leadership presence with the ability to influence and coach at all organizational levels.Advanced interpersonal, conflict resolution, and negotiation skills.High degree of integrity, confidentiality, and professional judgment.Strong analytical, problem-solving, organizational, and time-management skills.Thorough knowledge of employment laws and workplace safety regulations.Proficiency with Microsoft Office and HRIS/talent management systems (or ability to learn quickly).Willingness and ability to travel between locations (approximately 10-20% domestically).Bilingual in Spanish required.QualificationsBachelor's degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or a related field, or equivalent relevant experience.7-10+ years of progressive human resources experience, preferably in a manufacturing and/or multi-site environment.Proven experience in employee relations, talent management, compliance, and workplace safety leadership.Demonstrated experience supporting non-union environments.Strong working knowledge of OSHA regulations and employment law.Professional HR certification (SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP) strongly preferred.