Job Description

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

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

Skills Required