61Luis Herrera is a seasoned human resources leader with a wealth of experience in global HR strategy and workforce development. His expertise aligns HR functions with overarching business goals, enabling organizations to achieve long-term success. Throughout his career, Luis has led diverse teams across industries and regions, navigating the complexities of international markets while driving employee engagement and performance.
Luis is recognized for his ability to collaborate effectively with executives, managers, and teams, creating a culture that fosters productivity and engagement. His experience spans several countries, including China, Brazil, Mexico, the UK, Canada, South Korea, and Germany, giving him a deep understanding of how to tailor HR strategies to different cultural and operational environments. He has consistently demonstrated a strong aptitude for adapting to new challenges and ensuring that HR practices align with the evolving needs of businesses in diverse global markets.
Luis Herrera of Racine has worked in various industries throughout his professional journey, including high-tech manufacturing, consumer goods, supply chain, and food production. His extensive background in B2B distribution, transportation, and foundry operations has allowed him to implement HR strategies that are both effective and adaptable across various sectors. In addition to his expertise in traditional HR functions, Luis has specialized in mergers and acquisitions, employee relations, and change management, guiding organizations through transformational initiatives that enhance operational efficiency and organizational culture.
Luis earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Southern Illinois University and later pursued an Executive Master of Business Administration at Michigan State University. These academic accomplishments gave him the knowledge and skills to lead HR functions strategically and analytically. His leadership style is shaped by these strong academic foundations, enabling him to tackle complex business challenges and implement solutions that drive results.
Before transitioning into human resources, Luis served in the United States Marine Corps. His military background instilled a strong sense of discipline, leadership, and adaptability, which were instrumental in his career. The lessons learned during his time in the military have shaped his approach to leadership and HR management, allowing him to handle high-pressure situations with confidence and precision.
Luis began his professional journey at Motorola, Inc., where he worked as an HR Business Partner and Manager. In this role, he developed valuable skills in managing HR functions that support business growth. His next step took him to Kellogg Company, where he served as Senior HR Business Partner and Senior Employee Relations Consultant. In this capacity, he supported the company’s global operations, providing strategic HR leadership and helping the company manage its diverse workforce.
In 2005, Luis joined Grainger Industrial Supply as Senior HR Manager, overseeing HR operations for 13 distribution centers across the U.S. and Mexico. He focused on improving employee engagement, optimizing team performance, and implementing lean methodologies to drive efficiency. One of his most significant achievements was leading the shift to a "pay for performance" culture, which greatly enhanced the company's workforce dynamics and organizational culture.
Luis's career continued to evolve as he took on the role of leading HR for the Components Division at Navistar, a global manufacturer of trucks and defense vehicles. He was selected for an assignment in China, where he was responsible for launching a joint venture with Janghui Automotive Corporation. During this time, Luis developed and implemented HR strategies for the new venture, managed expatriate infrastructure, and led HR due diligence for multiple acquisitions.
2015, Luis joined Brunswick, a leading marine industry manufacturer, as HR Director. He managed HR for a $750 million division across six U.S. and Canadian locations. He focused on improving employee engagement, reducing turnover, and increasing productivity during his tenure. Luis’s leadership efforts helped three of Brunswick’s locations earn the prestigious “Employer of Choice” award, recognizing the company’s commitment to creating a positive work environment.
Luis continued his career at Wheels, Inc., a fleet management company, where he served as HR Manager and Strategic HR Business Partner. During the COVID-19 pandemic, Luis was critical in transitioning employees to remote work while implementing necessary health and safety measures. His work focused on maintaining business continuity and ensuring employees remained engaged during a challenging period. He also led diversity and inclusion efforts, further strengthening the company’s commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace culture.
At Hendrickson International, a global commercial vehicle trailer and suspension company, Luis served as HR Director. He oversaw HR operations for eight U.S., Canada, and Mexico locations, focusing on leadership development, talent acquisition, and employee engagement. His efforts were instrumental in improving employee satisfaction and enhancing the company’s ability to attract top talent in a competitive labor market.
Luis’s most recent role was as Senior HR Director at Reynolds Consumer Products, where he managed HR for the Hefty Waste & Storage and Hefty Tableware business units. He led initiatives to drive employee engagement, retention, and community involvement.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Luis is deeply committed to giving back to his community. He has volunteered with the “By the Hand” organization in Chicago, providing educational support and community services to at-risk youth. He also participates in volunteer projects in northern Michigan, where he helps maintain Boy Scouts facilities.
In his personal life, Luis enjoys a variety of hobbies, including welding, home brewing, and gardening. He is an avid scuba diver and enjoys cycling and kayaking, often finding peace and relaxation in outdoor activities. These hobbies give him a healthy work-life balance, allowing him to recharge and remain focused on his professional goals.