DEBRA LEIN, MBA

A private equity backed global company that has both union and non-union employees. (Fan and Heater manufacturing)

• Provided leadership and oversight to the HR team, strategy, programs, and administration for a Tennessee plant and distribution center with 500 employees in both union and non-union settings.
• Successfully executed a turnaround strategy through innovative recruiting approaches, career ladder implementation, and performance management initiatives.
• Human Resources liaison between the United States and China, fostering effective communication and collaboration across international teams.
• Led the comprehensive reconstruction of the facility from inception to completion, ensuring a seamless process.
• Implemented an online check stub system, saving over $32k and streamlining administrative processes.
• Facilitated the smooth integration of the Distribution Center into the plant infrastructure, culture, and systems during a change in reporting structure.
• Designed and implemented a comprehensive career ladder program for hourly team members, resulting in over 85% internal promotions.
• Collaborated with the Director of Plant Operations to execute succession planning and talent management initiatives, ensuring bench strength to support growth.
• Enhanced employee communication and expectations by rewriting policies and transforming the employee handbook into an online, state-compliant version.
• Established strong relationships with all managers, providing valuable insights and advice on employee relations decisions.
• Oversight of training and development initiatives for all employees, ensuring a skilled and empowered workforce.
• Served as a community liaison for donations, reflecting the company's commitment to corporate social responsibility.
• Actively participated in the Lasko United mentoring program, mentoring employees interested in HR careers and designing curriculum for the program.
• Achieved a 10% reduction in turnover rate through targeted initiatives and strategic interventions.
• Effectively managed a one-million-dollar budget, ensuring optimal allocation and resource utilization.
  

(Food Packaging Plant)

• Directed a team comprising of five Human Resources direct reports, supervised 12 janitors, and indirectly oversaw a workforce of over 502 employees.
• Served as a key business partner, providing valuable guidance to the CEO and Executive Leadership Team, contributing to organizational success.
• Spearheaded Talent Acquisition efforts for US Plant Operations, achieving a remarkable 98% fill rate for both hourly and salaried positions. Utilized social media, community networking, and outreach strategies.
• Managed the entire lifecycle of a new HRIS system, from the discovery phase to successful implementation, ensuring seamless integration with organizational needs.
• Successfully oversaw the EH&S team and managed the runoff plant environmental team, prioritizing safety and environmental compliance.
• Led culture change initiatives and championed diversity and inclusion efforts throughout the entire organization, fostering a positive and inclusive work environment.
• Established and implemented an employee recognition program, bonus initiatives, and an employee store, enhancing overall employee satisfaction and engagement.
• Implemented a robust performance management system and career ladder program, providing clarity in expectations and identifying areas for employee improvement, contributing to professional growth within the organization

(Corrugated Box Plant)

• Managed Human Resources operations for three manufacturing plants located in MN, GA, and IA, overseeing a collective workforce of over 370+ employees.
• Provided strategic oversight to the Human Resources team members, serving as a trusted advisor to all management-level team members on HR and Non-HR matters.
• Continually assessed the impacts of evolving federal and state regulations, adjusting policies accordingly and advising leaders on new laws.
• Administered an engagement survey, recommended action plans, and conducted targeted training for departments. Facilitated round table meetings to discuss findings and develop processes for improvement. Achieved a 97% participation rate, indicating positive reception.
• Established a hiring standard focusing on recruiting "A" team employees. Restructured interview questions and implemented guidelines to ensure new hires were the right fit for the position and aligned with the company's winning team culture.
• Utilized Workday for seamless and efficient payroll administration, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
• Ensured company compliance with OSHA standards through the implementation of a "safety snag" program, proactively addressing safety concerns and fostering a secure work environment.
• Administered multiple engagement surveys, recommending action plans and conducting departmental training. Facilitated round table meetings to discuss findings and establish processes for ongoing improvement, reflecting a commitment to employee satisfaction and organizational success

(Flexible Plastics Manufacturer-plastic bags/to go containers)

• Designed and implemented a comprehensive succession program for Lakeville and Canadian plants, covering all senior leaders and key positions.
• Facilitated onboarding sessions and provided on-the-job training for new hires, contributing to seamless integration into the workforce.
• Oversaw training initiatives for both United States and Canadian plants, ensuring consistency and effectiveness.
• Administered bi-weekly payroll efficiently through ADP, ensuring accuracy and compliance.
• Managed the annual open enrollment process for the plant, collaborating with vendors to oversee file feeds.