Overseas Food Trading Ltd. is a growing specialty food import and distribution company based in Fort Lee, New Jersey. With a team of approximately 90 employees, we serve a diverse customer base and operate in a fast-paced, globally connected environment.

Our workforce reflects a rich multicultural background, and we take pride in fostering an inclusive and collaborative culture. As the company continues to expand, we are building the infrastructure and leadership needed to support sustainable growth while maintaining our entrepreneurial spirit.

Position Summary

Overseas Food Trading Ltd. is seeking a strategic and hands-on Director of Human Resources to lead the development of its HR function. As a newly established department, this role will be responsible for building structure, implementing processes, and establishing best practices that support the organization’s growth.

With approximately 90 employees, the Director will oversee and develop a small HR team, providing mentorship, coaching, and guidance while ensuring effective day-to-day operations. This role will also drive key initiatives across talent, compliance, and organizational development, partnering closely with leadership to strengthen the overall HR function and employee experience.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Business Partnership

Partner with executive leadership to develop and execute HR strategy aligned with business goals
Advise on organizational design, workforce planning, and talent strategy
Drive initiatives related to employee engagement and retention
Support leadership through change management initiatives and company growth

HR Department Leadership & Development

Lead the HR department, defining its structure, processes, and strategic direction as a newly developed function
Develop and scale the HR policies, procedures, workflows and best practices to support a growing organization
Develop and maintain consistent HR communications across the organization

Employee Relations & Performance Management

Coach managers on performance, feedback and employee development
Design and implement performance management frameworks
Serve as escalation point for complex employee relations issues
Build and Support initiatives that foster a positive, inclusive, and productive workplace culture

Compliance & Risk Management

Ensure compliance with federal state and local employment laws and regulations
Oversee I-9 compliance, HR audits, and HR recordkeeping
Oversee visa programs (H1B, J-1) and Contingent Staff workforce compliance
Maintain policies and employee handbook
Maintain HR compensation strategy and salary structure accordingly

Talent Development & Organizational Growth/ Training

Develop and implement talent development strategies to support employee growth and retention
Partner with leadership to identify skill gaps and create development plans across teams
Promote a culture of continuous learning, feedback, and professional development

Recruitment and Talent Acquisition

Oversee end-to-end recruitment strategy (internal and external)
Partner with hiring managers to define roles and develop job descriptions
Lead and mentor the HR team in executing effective recruitment initiatives

Payroll, Benefits & HRIS Ownership

Own payroll function, processing accuracy and compliance
Own HRIS strategy and data integrity and system optimization
Lead yearly benefit review and define company benefit strategy

Education, Experience & Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, or related field required; Master’s degree (MBA or HR-related) preferred
Minimum of 10 years of progressive HR experience, including at least 3 years in a Director-level role
Strong experience in employee relations, compliance, and organizational development
Proven experience overseeing payroll processes and HRIS systems
Experience managing and developing small HR teams (2–3 direct reports)
Demonstrated ability to build and scale HR processes and infrastructure
Experience partnering with senior leadership and advising on business strategy
Deep knowledge of employment laws and HR best practices
Strong leadership, decision-making, and problem-solving skills
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to prepare and present reports and presentations
Ability to manage risk, handle sensitive situations, and balance strategic priorities with operational oversight

Physical Requirements

Frequent sitting and standing.
Occasional bending, lifting, and movement within the office.
Strong visual and auditory capability required.

Overseas Food Trading Ltd.

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