Soudal

Rachel Graff

Workforce Strategy Authority

Rachel Graff, Director of Human Resources – USA, Soudal, is a people-focused HR leader with expertise in talent development, employee engagement and organizational growth. She plays a key role in fostering an inclusive workplace culture, aligning people strategies with business objectives and supporting high-performing teams across the organization.

Throughout my career, I have developed a strong passion for forward-thinking recruitment strategies, talent acquisition, workforce development, and organizational growth. I believe HR should serve as a strategic driver that directly supports long-term business success, operational scalability, and employee engagement.

My expertise centers on building scalable workforce strategies that align talent acquisition with organizational objectives. I am passionate about identifying not only the right talent for today’s needs but also preparing organizations for future workforce demands through strategic planning, compensation alignment, leadership development, and retention initiatives. I believe that organizations thrive when they invest in people-focused strategies that encourage collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement. By understanding both operational goals and employee expectations, I help create HR solutions that support sustainable growth while fostering a positive workplace culture.

Aligning Talent Strategy with Business Growth

I have experience leading HR operations in fast-paced environments where business growth requires innovative recruiting methods, strong workforce analytics, and adaptable people strategies. I focus heavily on creating structures that improve both organizational performance and the employee experience, including job leveling, onboarding, compensation strategies, HRIS systems, and process improvement initiatives. In addition to managing day-to-day HR functions, I have worked closely with leadership teams to identify workforce gaps, improve hiring efficiency, and implement systems that streamline operations while maintaining compliance and employee satisfaction.

What drives me most is the ability to connect people with opportunities that allow them to grow professionally while helping organizations build sustainable, high-performing cultures. I believe successful talent acquisition is not simply about filling positions, but it is about developing long-term workforce solutions that strengthen culture, improve retention, and create pathways for employee development. I am especially passionate about mentoring employees, supporting leadership development programs, and creating environments where individuals feel valued, motivated, and empowered to contribute their best work.

“Organizations thrive when they invest in people-focused strategies that encourage collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.”

My leadership style combines strategic vision with operational execution. I enjoy partnering with executive leadership to analyze workforce trends, improve efficiency, and develop HR strategies that support both business objectives and employee success. As workforce expectations continue to evolve, I remain passionate about helping organizations modernize their HR approach while maintaining a strong people-first foundation. I also recognize the importance of adaptability in today’s changing workforce landscape. Whether implementing new technologies, improving onboarding experiences, or enhancing employee engagement initiatives, I strive to create HR practices that are both innovative and practical.

Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated the ability to balance organizational priorities with employee needs. I understand that successful organizations depend on strong communication, transparent leadership, and a culture that encourages accountability and professional growth. By fostering positive relationships across all levels of an organization, I help build trust and collaboration that contribute to long-term success.

Creating Engagement through Communication and Culture

One example of my problem-solving and communication skills came from a manufacturing facility where there was a noticeable disconnect between the production floor employees and the office staff. To improve communication and employee engagement, I created a monthly communication poster that highlighted important plant updates, employee accomplishments, new processes, cost savings, production milestones, birthdays, and work anniversaries. I also carefully considered where to place the posters for maximum visibility and decided to post them on the back of restroom stall doors throughout the facility, ensuring every employee would see them regularly. The idea was extremely well-received because employees appreciated the increased transparency, recognition, and positive communication, which helped boost morale across the plant. The concept became so popular that it earned nicknames such as “Potty Poster” and “Toilet Times,” and I have successfully implemented it at three manufacturing facilities.

Ultimately, my goal is to continue shaping innovative workforce strategies that position organizations for long-term growth, attract top talent, and create meaningful opportunities for employees to thrive. I am committed to contributing to organizations that value strategic HR leadership, continuous improvement, and employee development. Through thoughtful workforce planning, strong leadership partnerships, and a dedication to creating positive employee experiences, I aim to help organizations achieve lasting success while empowering individuals to reach their full potential.