Hr Manager

The Company Established more than five decades ago, our client has grown from a small family-founded operation into a global organisation supplying high-quality food products to customers across the world. With a strong focus on innovation, sustainability and partnership, they remain proudly driven by their founding values to delight customers through quality, collaboration and care. As the organisation embarks on an exciting new chapter in Australia, a significant capital investment is underway to bring a world class food processing facility to life locally. This newly created role will play a pivotal part in preparing the workforce and embedding culture as the company establishes its Australian manufacturing operations. The Role Reporting to the General Manager, this role will take ownership of the mobilisation and commissioning program for a large-scale greenfield manufacturing project in regional Victoria. Working in close partnership with both the local leadership team and international head office, you will lead and deliver all people-related programs to support the site's establishment from workforce planning and recruitment through to onboarding, systems implementation and culture building. As a key member of the project team, you will also contribute to broader business planning and ensure HR frameworks, policies and processes align with both Australian legislation and group standards. This position offers hybrid flexibility, with work based across Melbourne, Horsham and from home as required as the project ramps up at least 2-3 days will be required in Horsham. Some after-hours collaboration with global colleagues will also be part of the rhythm given the international partnership. Key Responsibilities Lead the end‑to‑end recruitment and workforce planning for the new facility, aligned to production and project milestones Partner with the head office HR team to design, align and implement HR systems, policies and employment frameworks that suit a manufacturing start‑up environment Deliver an engaging onboarding experience that drives early connection and performance Support day‑to‑day people operations including contracts, payroll administration, relocation assistance and employee queries Build a positive, inclusive culture and establish the groundwork for strong employee engagement Provide practical HR advice and coaching to leaders on performance, ER matters and workforce optimisation Manage compliance with Australian employment law, including Fair Work, Modern Awards, NES and WHS frameworks Contribute to key HR projects across learning, development and safety in collaboration with group specialists About you We are seeking a capable, hands‑on HR professional who enjoys variety, pace and building things from the ground up. You'll bring a balance of strategic intent and operational agility, as well as the practical capacity to establish systems and support people in a fast‑evolving setting. Experience in manufacturing, FMCG or industrial environments will be highly regarded, as will exposure to start‑up or site mobilisation contexts. You're confident engaging across all levels of the organisation, from collaborating with executives to supporting employees on the ground. Known for your initiative and calm approach, you're at your best in environments where you can make a tangible impact every day. Ideally, you’ll bring Strong experience in a generalist HR, HR Business Partner or project-based people function Strong knowledge of Australian employment law and HR best practice Demonstrated experience supporting greenfield or mobilisation projects Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills A proactive, solutions‑focused and practical mindset A relevant degree in Human Resources or Business A current driver’s licence and flexibility to travel between locations as needed What’s on offer This is a rare opportunity to contribute to the foundation of a globally recognised organisation’s Australian operations. You’ll be joining a values‑led business that genuinely cares about its people, offering autonomy, flexibility, and the chance to shape a positive workplace from day one. The organisation will create local jobs and will have a very positive impact on the regional community. In return, you can expect a competitive package, an exceptional work culture, and the opportunity to collaborate with international colleagues on a milestone project that will make a lasting impact across the Australian food manufacturing landscape. If you have questions before applying – please email Clare Johnston – quoting reference number : #J-18808-Ljbffr