Case Study

Creating and Leading an HR Department for an Established Electrical Manufacturing Company

The Challenge

Trayer has been a manufacturer of electrical distribution switchgear in the Bay Area for over 60 years. In 2021, they had a significant increase in business which drove the need to open a second facility and increase headcount rapidly. An important part of their growth plan was to establish an internal HR function, build an HR team and implement scalable processes.

The Solution

An NLS consultant was brought in to serve as the HR Director, build a team, and grow productive relationships with employees and Trayer’s labor union. The work is both strategic and tactical with priorities spanning compliance, employee/labor relations, workforce planning, and recruiting for manufacturing-specific talent in an area dominated by tech.

The Result

As part of Trayer’s leadership team, NLS oversees the HR department, now consisting of a team of talented professionals playing an integral role in the company’s growth. The implementation of HR systems, processes, and policies created the necessary structure, and the HR team partners with management to foster a high-performing culture. Trayer’s long-standing relationship with NLS has allowed them the agility necessary to navigate organizational change and continued growth.

“Next Level Strategies came in during a time of transition and was quickly able to identify, execute and facilitate the needs of HR and Recruiting.”

Ruth C. Alexander
Senior Managing Director, People Operations
Larkin Street Youth Services

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