Open To Work
JAMES DAREN SMITH
OH
Summary
Dynamic Human Resources Director with a proven track record in strategic workforce planning, compliance, talent management, and labor relations. Expertise in cultivating inclusive, high-performance cultures while optimizing HR processes to drive organizational growth. Strong leadership dedicated to enhancing employee engagement and achieving operational excellence through innovative HR strategies. Committed to aligning human capital initiatives with business objectives to foster a thriving workplace environment.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Work History
Human Resource Director
Kreate
09.2025 - Current
- Implemented strategies to ensure HR compliance with regulations, effectively managing risks and aligning with policies, employment laws, and organizational standards.
- Directed talent acquisition and development efforts to enhance organizational performance and support career advancement.
- Established and upheld HR policies that promote legal compliance and support company goals for an inclusive work environment.
- Nurtured a collaborative atmosphere through effective communication strategies and initiatives aimed at fostering employee growth.
- Managed payroll and performance management systems to align compensation with employee performance and satisfaction.
- Managed daily activities and resource allocation for 10 facilities to support organizational objectives.
Human Resource Director
Kern Liebers
07.2024 - 09.2025
- Streamlined hiring and onboarding procedures, enhancing new employee integration and overall experience.
- Reviewed and enforced HR policies to ensure compliance with legal standards while reinforcing organizational integrity.
- Enhanced workplace culture by actively resolving employee issues and encouraging professional development opportunities.
- Managed payroll and performance management systems to align compensation with employee performance and improve overall satisfaction.
Human Resource Director
Teijin Automotive
11.2021 - 07.2024
- Managed employee relations programs and benefits to enhance engagement and facilitate effective dispute resolution.
- Spearheaded discussions and formalized agreements to align company and union interests regarding fair wages and benefits.
- Investigated and mediated over 200 union grievances, effectively mitigating potential arbitration disputes.
- Formulated and executed HR strategies that align with organizational objectives to enhance workplace inclusivity.
- Implemented effective onboarding and retention programs to optimize talent acquisition and support professional growth within the organization.
- Oversaw HR compliance with regulations, managing risks and ensuring adherence to policies, employment laws, and organizational standards.
- Directed operations across 12 facilities to maintain high standards of service and safety.
Group Human Resource Manager
AGG/Tower International
05.2019 - 11.2021
- Coordinate recruitment, onboarding, and training initiatives to attract and retain skilled talent while enhancing workforce productivity and engagement.
- Implement HR policies and procedures to ensure compliance with labor laws and support organizational goals effectively.
- Oversee employee relations, addressing grievances, and fostering a collaborative, inclusive work environment that aligns with company values.
- Manage payroll, benefits, and performance appraisal systems, promoting transparency, fair compensation, and employee satisfaction.
- Responsible for 5 facilities.
Human Resource Manager
IAC (International Automotive components)
01.2017 - 04.2019
- Lead end-to-end recruitment processes, onboarding, and workforce planning to meet current and future organizational staffing needs effectively.
- Develop and enforce HR policies, ensuring legal compliance and alignment with company goals to support a positive workplace culture.
- Manage compensation, benefits administration, and performance reviews, ensuring competitive, fair, and motivating employee experiences.
Education
Bachelor's Degree - Business Management with emphasis on Human Resources
National American University
South Dakota01.2013
Associates Degree - Applied Business, Human Resource Management
Daymar College
Chillicothe, Ohio01.2010
Skills
- Strategic Labor Relations Management
- HR Compliance and Legal Knowledge
- Compensation and Benefits Design
- Data Analytics and HR Metrics
- Workforce planning and management
- Influence and guidance
- Labor conflict resolution
- Interpersonal understanding
- Negotiation expertise
- Flexibility and analytical thinking
Work Preference
Job Search Status
Open to workWork Type
Full TimeLocation Preference
On-SiteHybridRemoteSalary Range
$170000/yr - $200000/yrTimeline
Human Resource Director
Kreate
09.2025 - Current
Human Resource Director
Kern Liebers
07.2024 - 09.2025
Human Resource Director
Teijin Automotive
11.2021 - 07.2024
Group Human Resource Manager
AGG/Tower International
05.2019 - 11.2021
Human Resource Manager
IAC (International Automotive components)
01.2017 - 04.2019
Associates Degree - Applied Business, Human Resource Management
Daymar College
Bachelor's Degree - Business Management with emphasis on Human Resources
National American University