Employee Relations Partner, Rockford IL

OVERVIEW

Perfetti Van Melle (makers of Mentos and Airheads!) is one of the world's largest manufacturers and distributors of confectionery and chewing gum with global brands that are being enjoyed in more than 150 countries worldwide. We’re currently seeking a passionate and enthusiastic Employee Relations Partner based in Rockford, IL to join our growing team.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

The Employee Relations Partner supports hourly employees and supervisors by helping address workplace issues fairly and consistently. The role handles attendance, conduct, and performance concerns, investigates problems in a timely and objective manner, and works closely with supervisors and HR to determine appropriate next steps. This position provides guidance to leaders on how to address sensitive situations and ensures policies are applied consistently across all shifts. The Employee Relations Lead maintains accurate and confidential documentation, collaborates with HR and Operations to improve attendance and retention through better communication and follow-up, and supports engagement and recognition efforts that strengthen teamwork and accountability. Additional responsibilities include:

• Be the main point of contact for hourly employee issues, making sure policies are applied fairly and consistently on all shifts.
• Look into workplace concerns quickly and objectively, such as attendance, behavior, or performance issues.
• Work with supervisors and HR to decide on next steps and help leaders handle difficult situations.
• Keep detailed and confidential records of all employee relations discussions and outcomes.
• Conduct investigations into attendance, conduct, and performance issues; document findings and follow up on outcomes.
• Coach supervisors on progressive discipline, communication, and policy application.
• Support leaders in handling attendance and performance concerns while promoting accountability and clear communication.
• Monitor and track trends in employee relations activity and share insights with HR and Operations.
• Support engagement efforts and recognition programs that build connection and reinforce positive workplace behavior.
• Partner with HR and Legal on complex employee matters to ensure compliance with policies and labor laws.
• Support the Engagement Committee and recognition programs to strengthen connection, communication, and accountability across the plant.

WHAT WE NEED FROM YOU

• Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, or a related field.
• 3-5 years of experience specializing in employee relations and employment law, with exposure to broader human resources practices.
• Prior experience in a 24/7 manufacturing environment required.
• Trusted to handle private information and sensitive situations with good judgment.
• Working knowledge of MS Office.
• Working knowledge/experience of a HRIS System.
• Proven track record developing empowered and autonomous front-line teams.
• Fluent in Spanish preferred.
• Knowledge of federal, state and local laws, statutes that govern employment policies and practices.
• Thorough understanding and application of internal and external HR principles, concepts, practices and standards.
• Proven track record developing teams and front-line leaders.
• Experience rolling out change management processes.
• Experience rolling out TPM/Lean or similar Continuous Improvement efforts.

WHAT WE OFFER

At Perfetti Van Melle, we are committed to fostering a welcoming workplace, where all individuals, regardless of background or identity, are valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique perspectives to the sweet success of our candy-loving community. Additionally, we have a core value of Care For Our People and we are proud to offer benefit programs that support our team members' goals and well-being including:
• PTO package including vacation, sick, personal, and pay it forward time off
• 13 paid holidays
• 401k with Company Match up to 8%, ranking in the top 1% of the country
• Annual Bonus potential and merit-based increases
• Comprehensive Health Insurance
• Annual well-being subsidy
• 20 weeks Maternity & 12 weeks Paternity leave options
• Sam's Club or Costco annual membership reimbursement
• Tuition-Free College Program or Free Continued Education (BA, Masters, etc.)
• Modest monthly candy allotment (Airheads, Airheads Xtremes, and Mentos)

The anticipated target range for this role is: $95,000 - $105,000 per year based on our band. Perfetti Van Melle considers a variety of factors when determining base compensation, including experience, qualifications, and geographic location. These considerations mean actual compensation will vary.

Perfetti Van Melle, USA is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.