HR Leadership Program Associate

HR Leadership Program Associate - 2026

Description & Requirements

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, safety and loyalty, we use leading science and technology to move fiber-based packaging forward.

The Opportunity

The HR Leadership Program ("HRLP") is a two-year rotational program composed of targeted leadership development, designed to support emerging HR professionals. Over the course of two 12-month rotations, associates will gain immersive, cross-functional experiences across the full spectrum of human resources. Upon completion of the program, HRLP graduates will be strategically 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\u2019s degree in Human Resources, Business, Organizational Psychology, or a related field

• Preferred: Master\u2019s 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

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 safety, loyalty, integrity, and respect, we use leading science and technology to move fiber-based packaging forward.

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.