HR Business Partner Lead, Manager - Retail Operations

Role overview

Reporting to the HRBP Director or VP, this position acts as the HR Business Partner lead for assigned retail business units. The role connects people priorities with business goals, advises managers on HR matters, and helps shape solutions that support both employees and the organization.

This role functions as an employee advocate and a driver of change. It identifies likely HR needs in advance, coordinates with HR Centers of Expertise and business leadership, and builds cross-functional partnerships that improve service delivery and support the company’s business objectives.

Key responsibilities

• Hold regular weekly check-ins with the assigned business units.
• Provide managers with guidance on HR policies and related employee matters.
• Review trends and workforce metrics with HR Centers of Expertise to create programs, policies, and practical solutions.
• Handle employee relations matters, including objective and detailed investigations when required.
• Maintain current knowledge of employment law and daily management requirements to reduce risk and support compliance, working with legal partners as needed.
• Offer coaching and support on performance management, including development conversations, counseling, and disciplinary actions.
• Work with managers and employees to strengthen working relationships, morale, productivity, and retention.
• Support reorganizations, workforce planning, and succession planning efforts.
• Champion a positive employee experience throughout the employee lifecycle.
• Help build development plans for high-potential talent and identify future leaders for critical roles.
• Execute workplace strategies that improve productivity, performance, and satisfaction, and help define measures to track results.
• Partner on process and solution design that promotes healthy employee relations through effective communication, policies, and practices.
• Support change management efforts so teams are prepared for ongoing organizational transformation.

Experience and education

• A bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience is required.
• At least 2 years of relevant experience is required.
• Preferred academic backgrounds include Human Resources, Psychology, or Organizational Effectiveness.
• Retail industry experience of 2 years or more is preferred.
• Preference is also given to candidates with 4 or more years of relevant experience.
• HR-related project or work experience is preferred.
• Retail experience of 5 years or more is also noted as a stronger preference.

Skills and capabilities

• Strategic planning and consultative advising
• Clear verbal and written communication
• Strong HR knowledge
• Ethical judgment and confidentiality
• Coaching and people development
• Relationship management
• People management
• Business acumen
• Ability to prioritize short-term and long-term needs
• Adaptability
• Working independently and influencing through others
• Advanced PowerPoint and Excel skills

Additional information

This role requires discretion when handling sensitive information. The ideal candidate can work autonomously when needed, while also driving execution through others and supporting change across client groups and project teams.