Strategic HR Leader - Manufacturing & Operations Expert

Julie Nichols

*** ****** ****, *********, ** ****2 931-***-**** ️ **************@*****.*** linkedin.com/in/julie-nichols-28749b20

Professional Summary

Strategic and results-oriented Human Resources Leader with 15+ years of experience driving workforce excellence across manufacturing, plant operations, and multi-site environments. Expert in building high-performance cultures, reducing turnover, and aligning HR strategy with business goals. Adept at leading cross-functional teams, resolving complex employee relations issues, and designing innovative onboarding and training programs. Trusted partner to executive leadership, with a proven ability to navigate sensitive investigations and drive organizational development. Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Business Administration to deepen strategic impact and leadership capabilities.

Professional Experience

Human Resource Manager

Store Opening Solutions (SOS) — July 2023 – Present

Led HR strategy across 6 sites in 4 states, overseeing recruitment, training, compliance, and employee relations. 1 Business Manager & Generalist report to me.

Reduced turnover by 40% through targeted onboarding and retention programs for FTE & 50% temporary turnover, implementing a new recruitment process.

Designed and implemented safety cards and First Responder programs across all locations. Initiated new Safety Policy, Attendance Program, Texting Program, New Point System, New “Quike Guide”, New Corrective Action Policy, New PAR program for budgeted headcount.

Conducted 30+ training courses company-wide, revamped policies and handbook for legal compliance.

Partnered with Plant Managers and executives on organizational development and high-level investigations.

Changed the Dark Culture with new management with 8-Y’s and 6-S’s strategies for recruitment.

Human Resource Plant Manager

Albea Group – Shelbyville, TN — Oct 2021 – June 2023

Directed HR operations for plant site, managing 4 HR professionals and security staff.

Launched QR-code recruiting campaigns and redesigned external branding materials.

Led monthly HR KPIs, biometric screenings, and safety audits.

Collaborated with legal and plant leadership on sensitive employee relations cases.

Human Resource Manager

Berry Global, Inc. — Dec 2020 – Nov 2021

Managed full-cycle HR functions including recruitment, onboarding, payroll, and compliance.

Introduced real-time applicant communication via texting app.

Spearheaded morale and succession planning initiatives.

Human Resources Supervisor, TMR

Marelli — Nov 2018 – Nov 2020

Developed HR policies, led investigations, and ensured legal compliance.

Managed onboarding, benefits, and internal communications.

Oversaw recruiting partnerships and KPI performance tracking.

HR Salaried Recruiter / Generalist

Marelli — Mar 2008 – Nov 2020

Created innovative recruiting campaigns using social media and job platforms.

Conducted compensation analysis and vendor negotiations.

Launched retention surveys at 30, 90, and 180 days for new hires

Administered onboarding, terminations, and employee record updates.

Delivered orientations and supported HRIS data entry and compliance.

Coordinated job fairs, interviews, and candidate travel logistics.

Education

Bachelor of Business Administration (In Progress) Trevecca Nazarene University — Expected Graduation: 2025

Associate of Science in Business Administration Motlow State Community College — Graduated: May 2020

Dear Hiring Manager,

With over 15 years of progressive experience in Human Resources—spanning manufacturing, plant operations, and multi-site leadership, I bring a strategic, hands-on approach to building high-performing teams and cultivating workplace cultures that thrive. I’m excited to apply for your role, where I can contribute my passion for people, process improvement, and organizational development.

In my current role as HR Manager at Store Opening Solutions, I lead HR strategy across six sites in four states, driving initiatives that have reduced turnover by 40%, enhanced safety compliance, and strengthened employee engagement. From designing onboarding programs and technical training to conducting high-level investigations and partnering with executive leadership, I’ve consistently delivered results that align HR with business goals.

Throughout my career, I’ve built a reputation for being both people-focused and data-driven. At Albea Group, I led a team of HR professionals and implemented innovative recruiting strategies using QR codes and branded materials. At Berry Global and Marelli, I spearheaded morale-building programs, launched retention surveys, and introduced real-time applicant communication tools—all while ensuring compliance and operational excellence.

Currently pursuing my Bachelor of Business Administration at Trevecca Nazarene University, I’m committed to continuous growth and bringing fresh, strategic insights into every challenge. I’m confident that my experience, leadership style, and dedication to workforce development make me a strong fit for your team.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to [Company Name]’s continued success. Thank you for considering my application—I look forward to connecting soon.

Warm regards,

Julie Nichols

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