Head of HR M&A

About the role

Lonza is seeking a senior HR leader to own the people agenda for its global portfolio of mergers, acquisitions, divestitures, joint ventures and restructurings. The role will guide HR strategy from early‑stage exploration through due diligence, transaction execution, integration or separation and post‑close stabilization.

Key responsibilities

• Define and govern the global HR M&A portfolio, setting strategy, priorities and resources across multiple concurrent transactions.
• Lead cross‑functional HR workstreams covering Total Rewards, Talent Acquisition, HR Services, digital HR, payroll, benefits and employee communications.
• Act as senior HR deal lead, providing strategic expertise on people risks, workforce implications, organizational design and value‑creation opportunities.
• Partner with Corporate M&A, Finance, Legal, IT and business leaders to resolve complex issues and enable timely decisions.
• Oversee HR integration and separation activities, ensuring compliance with employment law, works councils, unions and consultation requirements.

Required profile

• 15+ years of progressive HR experience with deep expertise in HR M&A, gained in consulting, project‑driven environments or an in‑house M&A function of a multinational.
• Proven track record leading HR workstreams across complex acquisitions, divestitures, integrations and restructurings.
• Strong business and financial acumen, able to translate transaction strategy into pragmatic HR priorities and value‑creation plans.
• Executive presence with excellent communication, negotiation and influencing skills.
• Ability to operate in fast‑paced, confidential, matrix environments with sound judgment and resilience.

Required skills

• Deep knowledge of the full M&A lifecycle, including due diligence, transaction planning, integration/separation and post‑close stabilization.
• Expertise in Total Rewards, HR Operations, HR systems, workforce transitions and cross‑functional programme delivery.
• Strong analytical, problem‑solving and project‑management capabilities.