Job Opportunity:

The HR Specialist is responsible for leading implementation of core HR programs and employee-related initiatives in the business to ensure an effective, sustainable people strategy over the long term. This role serves as employee champion, managing compensation, employment, benefits, training, safety and health, employee relations, and labor relations.

Performs a variety of human resources responsibilities that include hiring decisions, benefits and compensation administration, Employee relations, and any other Human Resources related activities.

Fully competent professional; possesses and applies a broad knowledge of principles, practices and procedures of particular field of specialization to the completion of difficult assignments. Usually works with minimum supervision.

How you will impact WestRock:

• Create strategic business partnerships with front-line employees and supervisors to promote positive employee relations.

• Implement HR strategies, policies, and procedures that support the overall business objectives and ensure compliance with local labor laws and regulations.

• Provide guidance and expertise on HR-related matters to plant management and employees.

• Create progressive discipline plans to monitor, review and make suggestions for corrective actions for attendance, punctuality, conduct and performance issues.

• Implement human resource policies and procedures to ensure compliance with Provincial and Federal regulatory requirements and reporting.

• Coach and advise front-line employees and managers regarding employee relations policies, and proper operating procedures. Develop strategies to increase workforce diversity, optimize core and pivotal talent, and endure a robust talent pipeline for future hires.

• Partner with Talent Acquisitions to manage the workforce plan development and implementation, assisting with compensation and training initiatives.

• Investigate questions and/or complaints to resolve employee relations issues.

• Ensure compliance with all application federal and provincial applicable legislations and ensure compliance with company policies

• May conduct and summarize internal and external surveys to gather information for policy development and planning.

• Works as a change agent within the organization.

What you need to succeed:

• Bachelor’s degree in HR Management or Labour Relations or equivalent education.
• Minimum 3 - 5 years of related experience
• CHRL designation a definite asset
• Possess strong computer skills utilizing Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
• Ability to travel in Canada and the US on occasion.
• Possess exceptional oral and written communication skills
• Demonstrated skills in the areas of: business acumen, consulting, systems thinking, data analysis, job design and project management in a human resources role and structure
• Ability to deal effectively with ambiguity, recognize trends, and identify systemic approaches to solving problems in a fast-moving, constantly changing environment

Why work for Smurfit Westrock:

• Corporate culture is based on integrity, respect, accountability, and excellence.
• Comprehensive training with numerous learning and development opportunities.
• An attractive salary reflects skills, competencies, and potential
• A career with a global packaging company where Sustainability, Safety and Inclusion are business drivers and foundational elements of the daily work.

This posting is for an existing job vacancy. The salary range for this position is $78,000 - $128,000. The range listed is the expected pay for roles in Ontario, Canada. Your pay will be based on factors such as your skills, experience and education. To learn more about this posting, please contact your recruiter during the hiring process. You may apply online at Smurfit Westrock External Careers and the application window is expected to close by June 30, 2026.

Smurfit Westrock Company is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to creating and maintaining a diverse workforce. As part of our commitment to accessibility for all people with disabilities, Smurfit Westrock will, upon the request of the applicant, provide accommodation during the recruitment process to ensure equal access to applicants with disabilities. Please contact Smurfit Westrock, Human Resources about your needs and we will consult with you to ensure suitable accommodation is provided.