About Polar Performance Materials :
Polar Performance Materials (Polar) has established itself as a leader in the specialty materials manufacturing industry, focusing on the production of high-purity alumina (HPA). With a strong commitment to innovation and sustainability, Polar leverages a patented manufacturing process that significantly reduces carbon intensity and energy consumption compared to traditional methods. Polar’s HPA is critical for a range of high-tech applications across diverse industries, including semiconductors, LEDs, and technical ceramics.
The company’s growth is supported by strategic investments from Ara Partners, a global private equity firm that is decarbonizing the industrial economy. Polar is actively enhancing their ability to scale operations and expand its market presence while fostering an engaged and high-performing workforce. With plans for further expansion, Polar Performance Materials is poised to meet the increasing global demand for ultra-pure materials that drive technological advancements and sustainable practices in industries worldwide.
The Opportunity :
We are looking for a visionary and hands-on leader to build our HR systems and processes from the ground up. The Vice President of Human Resources (VP, HR) will report directly to the CEO and serve as a strategic business partner to the executive team. This critical role will design and execute a comprehensive HR and people strategy that aligns with the company’s mission, supports rapid growth, and drives organizational excellence. The VP, HR will oversee all HR functions, including talent acquisition, employee engagement, organizational development, compliance, and HR operations, across multiple locations and within an international context.
Key Responsibilities :
Strategic HR Leadership
- Develop and execute a forward-looking people strategy that supports business growth and aligns with the company’s mission and values.
- Serve as a trusted advisor to the CEO and leadership team, fostering a cohesive, high-performing executive team.
HR Infrastructure Development
Build the HR function from the ground up, including selecting and implementing HR technologies to streamline operations.Develop and implement scalable HR policies, processes, and systems that ensure compliance, efficiency, and an excellent employee experience.Talent Management & Workforce Planning
Drive recruitment for key roles, including Engineering, R&D, and Quality positions.Lead workforce planning, organizational design, and role definition to support strategic goals.Champion diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives to create an inclusive and innovative workplace.Employee Engagement & Performance
Create and implement incentive, rewards, and recognition programs to enhance employee engagement.Oversee performance management systems to drive accountability and continuous improvement.Leadership Development & Team Building
Assess team capabilities, provide coaching, and ensure the development of leaders across the organization.Hire and build a high-performing HR team to support organizational needs.International & Multi-Site Operations
Navigate the complexities of managing HR for an international workforce and multi-site operations.Establish policies and practices that promote consistency while respecting local nuances.Key Deliverables : At 3 Months :
Develop a comprehensive understanding of the company’s business objectives, operations, and culture.Present an organizational design with a clear implementation plan.Drive recruitment for critical roles in Engineering, R&D, and Quality.Select and recommend HR technologies for streamlining operations.Support the CEO in fostering a cohesive and aligned leadership team.At 1 Year :
Assess and enhance team capabilities while providing ongoing management and coaching.Achieve minimal employee turnover by fostering engagement and satisfaction.Successfully implement HR systems and refine processes for efficiency.Build a capable HR team to support growing organizational needs.Act as a trusted coach and advisor to the leadership team.Qualifications
10+ years of HR leadership experience, preferably within the manufacturing industry.Proven success in building HR functions from scratch, including systems and processes.Experience managing HR for multi-site and multinational organizations.Expertise in organizational design, workforce planning, and defining roles and responsibilities.Strong knowledge of talent management, including DEI initiatives and performance management.Demonstrated ability to design and implement employee incentives, rewards, and recognition programs.Skilled in resolving HR disputes and fostering a positive employee relations environment.Ability to select and manage HR technologies, report on HR metrics, and maintain employee data integrity.Experience in private-equity-backed environments is a plus.Key Competencies
Strategic thinker with a hands-on approach to problem-solving.Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.Strong leadership and coaching abilities.Proactive and adaptable in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.Why Join Polar Performance Materials?
This is a rare opportunity to make a significant impact by shaping the HR function for a growing, international organization in the manufacturing space. As a key leader, you will influence the company’s culture, growth trajectory, and long-term success.
Next Steps :
We here at Clarity Recruitment would like to thank you for your applicationOnly those chosen for a phone interview will be contacted via email and text to set up a phone interviewClarity Recruitment and our client are firmly committed to fostering diversity within our community. Our clients welcome those who would contribute to the further diversification of their staff, including, but not limited to, women, visible minorities, Aboriginal people, persons with disabilities, and persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity. Please note that all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. Please notify us if you require accommodation in the application process.
Clarity Recruitment helps start-ups and scale-ups build top-performing finance & accounting teams with a structured recruitment process and better results. Visit findingclarity.ca to learn more!