VP Global Human Resources, Legal

Kellenberger has been a pioneer in high-precision turning and grinding solutions for over a century. Our name stands for innovation, quality, and durability. We serve demanding industries such as automotive, aerospace, energy, and mechanical engineering with tailor-made solutions.

The VP Human Resources, Legal & Compliance is responsible for the strategic development and operational excellence of HR, Legal, and Compliance functions. This key role ensures the company is future-ready from both an organizational and regulatory perspective, mitigates risks, and fosters a high-performance, inclusive, and legally compliant corporate culture.

This role reports directly to the CFO and offers a true once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for someone who wants to make an impact. We are not looking for a caretaker We are looking for a creator with energy, vision, and the courage to build something new.

TASKS HUMAN RESOURCES

• Develop and implement a comprehensive HR strategy aligned with corporate goals.

• Lead all HR functions, including Talent Acquisition, Talent Management, Learning & Development, Compensation & Benefits, HR Operations, and Employer Branding.

• Build and advance a modern Global People & Culture organization.

• Implement programs for leadership development, employee engagement, and performance optimization.

• Responsible for workforce planning and organizational development.

• Serve as a trusted advisor to the C-level and regional management teams on all HR-related matters.

• Drive productivity and performance improvements, including initiatives in white-collar productivity, aligned with the company's profitable growth plan.

LEGAL

• Oversee corporate legal matters by effectively coordinating internal legal resources and external counsel, providing strategic guidance and operational support in a senior legal manager/para-legal capacity, rather than as full general counsel.

• Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulatory requirements, and industry standards.

• Manage contracts, including review, drafting, and negotiation of agreements.

• Support corporate structuring, M&A, IP, and data protection matters.

• Coordinate external law firms and internal legal resources efficiently.

COMPLIANCE

• Establish, maintain, and monitor an effective compliance management system.

• Implement policies, standards, and training programs to promote corporate ethics and compliance.

• Conduct risk assessments, audits, and investigations, documenting findings thoroughly.

• Ensure transparent governance structures and foster a culture of compliance across the organization.

DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY (DoA) + Define, maintain, and communicate the company-wide DoA framework to ensure clear decision-making and approval structures.

OUR OFFER

• We offer internal and external further training opportunities.

• We offer you secure employment with individual development potential.

• You will work in an international environment with technologically advanced products.

• Freedom to shape HR, Legal, and Compliance structures sustainably.

• You will receive a target-oriented and practical onboarding program. We offer flexible working hours. + Excellent working conditions under the Swissmem collective labor agreement (GAV).

• The office location is Goldach, Switzerland. National and international travel is required.

QUALIFICATIONS

• University degree in Law, Business Administration, Business Law, Human Resources, or equivalent. Full legal qualification (licensed attorney) is a plus.

• 10–15+ years of relevant experience in HR, Legal, or Compliance, ideally in a leadership role within an international environment.

• Proven experience in building and digitizing HR and Compliance structures.

• Strong knowledge of labor law, data protection, corporate law, and compliance regulations.

• Demonstrable experience in change management and transformation projects.

• Strong leadership and decision-making skills.

• High integrity, accountability, and discretion.

• Strategic thinker with hands-on operational capability.

• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.

• Empathy, conflict resolution skills, and the ability to build trusted relationships – acting as a 'go-to person' for employees and leadership alike.

• Confident presence with executive management, authorities, partners, and stakeholders.

DO YOU HAVE ANY FURTHER QUESTIONS? For more details about the position, you can reach out to HR Manager Sabrina Messmer,

You're in the right place with us if you're seeking a new professional challenge. Our continuous growth offers diverse opportunities and room for development We look forward to receiving your complete online application via our applicant portal