WestRock Company
Overview
HR Leadership Program Associate – 2026
Smurfit Westrock (NYSE: SW) is a global leader in sustainable paper and packaging solutions. We are materials scientists, packaging designers, mechanical engineers and manufacturing experts with a shared purpose: Innovate Boldly. Package Sustainably. Guided by our values of integrity, respect, accountability and excellence, we use leading science and technology to move fiber-based packaging forward.
Description & Requirements The HR Leadership Program ("HRLP") is a two-year rotational program composed of targeted leadership development, designed to support emerging HR professionals. Over two 12-month rotations, associates will gain immersive, cross-functional experiences across the full spectrum of human resources. Upon completion, HRLP graduates will be prepared to drive impact and step into future leadership roles, forming a robust pipeline of HR talent. This program requires relocation.
Program Experience
Exposure to key HR focus areas including (but not limited to): Labor Relations, HR Compliance, HRIS Systems, Talent Acquisition, Learning & Development, Compensation & Benefits, Succession Planning, and Performance Management.
Partner with senior HR professionals and cross-functional leaders to collaborate on high-priority projects and reinforce the HR strategy.
Fuel innovation by embracing fresh, diverse thinking and future-ready approaches, preparing our businesses for the evolving workforce and technologies.
Receive comprehensive training through a blended model of experience, exposure, and education. The curriculum covers business acumen, professional and leadership development, mentorship access, networking opportunities, and more.
Collaborate on initiatives that align HR strategy with broader business goals, including organizational effectiveness, culture, and employee experience.
Key Responsibilities While responsibilities vary by rotation, typical duties may include:
Supporting the design and implementation of HR programs and initiatives
Conducting data analysis and reporting on key HR metrics
Advising managers and employees on HR policies and best practices
Leading or supporting cross-functional project teams
Evaluating the effectiveness of HR solutions and recommending improvements
Partnering with stakeholders to enhance the employee lifecycle experience
Qualifications
Required: Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, Organizational Psychology, or a related field
Preferred: Master’s degree in Human Resources, Business, Organizational Psychology, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
0–3 years of relevant work or internship experience in HR-related roles
Demonstrated leadership potential and interest in a long-term HR career
Clear communication skills both written and verbal
Ability to adapt to new environments and work collaboratively
Willingness to work in production/plant locations (non-corporate environments)
Relocation flexibility
Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.
Job Details
Seniority level: Internship
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Human Resources
Industries: Packaging and Containers Manufacturing
Locations: GA Atlanta Headquarters
Posting date: 20-Aug-2025
EEO & Contact Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at WestRock Company. This employer participates in EEO programs and complies with applicable laws.
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Smurfit Westrock (NYSE: SW) is a global leader in sustainable paper and packaging solutions. We are materials scientists, packaging designers, mechanical engineers and manufacturing experts with a shared purpose: Innovate Boldly. Package Sustainably. Guided by our values of integrity, respect, accountability and excellence, we use leading science and technology to move fiber-based packaging forward.
Description & Requirements The HR Leadership Program ("HRLP") is a two-year rotational program composed of targeted leadership development, designed to support emerging HR professionals. Over two 12-month rotations, associates will gain immersive, cross-functional experiences across the full spectrum of human resources. Upon completion, HRLP graduates will be prepared to drive impact and step into future leadership roles, forming a robust pipeline of HR talent. This program requires relocation.
Program Experience
Exposure to key HR focus areas including (but not limited to): Labor Relations, HR Compliance, HRIS Systems, Talent Acquisition, Learning & Development, Compensation & Benefits, Succession Planning, and Performance Management.
Partner with senior HR professionals and cross-functional leaders to collaborate on high-priority projects and reinforce the HR strategy.
Fuel innovation by embracing fresh, diverse thinking and future-ready approaches, preparing our businesses for the evolving workforce and technologies.
Receive comprehensive training through a blended model of experience, exposure, and education. The curriculum covers business acumen, professional and leadership development, mentorship access, networking opportunities, and more.
Collaborate on initiatives that align HR strategy with broader business goals, including organizational effectiveness, culture, and employee experience.
Key Responsibilities While responsibilities vary by rotation, typical duties may include:
Supporting the design and implementation of HR programs and initiatives
Conducting data analysis and reporting on key HR metrics
Advising managers and employees on HR policies and best practices
Leading or supporting cross-functional project teams
Evaluating the effectiveness of HR solutions and recommending improvements
Partnering with stakeholders to enhance the employee lifecycle experience
Qualifications
Required: Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, Organizational Psychology, or a related field
Preferred: Master’s degree in Human Resources, Business, Organizational Psychology, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
0–3 years of relevant work or internship experience in HR-related roles
Demonstrated leadership potential and interest in a long-term HR career
Clear communication skills both written and verbal
Ability to adapt to new environments and work collaboratively
Willingness to work in production/plant locations (non-corporate environments)
Relocation flexibility
Candidates are required to undergo a drug screening after receiving a conditional job offer, but before starting employment.
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by state or federal law.
Job Details
Seniority level: Internship
Employment type: Full-time
Job function: Human Resources
Industries: Packaging and Containers Manufacturing
Locations: GA Atlanta Headquarters
Posting date: 20-Aug-2025
EEO & Contact Referrals increase your chances of interviewing at WestRock Company. This employer participates in EEO programs and complies with applicable laws.
#J-18808-Ljbffr