We are seeking an experienced and forward-thinking Strategic HR Business Partner to support our business in Germany. This role partners closely with senior leadership to align people strategies with business objectives, while driving operational excellence and enabling transformation across a complex, regulated, and international environment.
The ideal candidate brings a strong background in strategic HR leadership, demonstrated experience working with German works councils, and a deep understanding of labor law. With a growth mindset, global perspective, and the ability to manage diverse stakeholder needs, this role plays a critical part in shaping talent strategies, fostering leadership development, and supporting long-term organizational success.
Job Responsibilities:
* Strategic Business Partnership: Collaborate closely with senior leadership to align HR strategies with business goals. Translate business priorities into actionable people and organizational plans that support growth and long-term success. Provide insightful workforce analytics and data-driven recommendations to influence decision-making.
* Works Council Collaboration: Act as the primary HR main point of contact with the works council, ensuring transparent, compliant, and constructive communication. Support and guide management through co-determination processes, negotiations, and employee relations to foster a positive and compliant labor environment.
* Operational Excellence & Standards: Implement, monitor, and continuously improve HR and operational standards within the organization. Ensure consistent application of policies and practices across all levels while supporting compliance in a complex, regulated environment.
* Change & Transformation Leadership: Lead and support organizational change initiatives, including restructurings and transformation programs, with a focus on sustainable business outcomes and employee engagement. Coach leaders to adopt a growth mindset and foster a culture of continuous learning and innovation.
* Talent & Leadership Development: Partner with talent management to identify critical skill gaps and develop targeted strategies for leadership development, succession planning, and retention. Promote diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives as integral parts of business and talent strategies.
* Stakeholder Management: Build strong relationships with cross-functional teams, and external partners to ensure alignment and seamless delivery of HR services. Manage competing priorities effectively in a matrix environment.
Required Qualifications:
* Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business Administration, Psychology, or a related field
* Extensive experience as a strategic HR Business Partner in an international environment, with a strong track record of successful collaboration with works councils and in-depth knowledge of German labor law
* Strong operational expertise with a track record of implementing and maintaining HR and business operational standards in complex, regulated environments
* Exceptional communication skills, able to clearly and confidently engage with stakeholders at all levels, including senior leadership, employees, and external partners
* Demonstrated resilience and adaptability in dynamic and fast-paced business environments, capable of navigating ambiguity and driving positive outcomes under pressure
* Growth mindset with a strong commitment to continuous learning, innovation, and fostering a culture of development and agility within teams and the wider organization
* Global mindset with experience working across diverse cultures and geographies; comfortable collaborating within matrix organizations and virtual teams
* Excellent stakeholder management skills, able to build trust and influence cross-functionally while managing competing priorities effectively
* Data-driven and analytical approach, with the ability to interpret complex HR metrics and translate insights into strategic actions
* Fluent in German and English
If you are passionate about shaping high-impact people strategies in a global context and thrive in a collaborative, performance-oriented culture, we’d love to hear from you.
By applying for this position, you agree that Fortive may store and process your personal data, including your CV, for the purpose of recruitment. Your data will be handled in accordance with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and our privacy policy. You can withdraw your consent at any time by contacting us at