Job Description

At Designer Brands, we are the proud parent company of DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, The Shoe Company, and Rubino, operating nearly 675 stores across North America and a billion-dollar digital commerce business. We lead the footwear industry with a diverse portfolio of iconic brands, including Topo Athletic, Keds, Vince Camuto, Kelly & Katie, Jessica Simpson, Lucky Brand, Mix No. 6, Crown Vintage, and others. With expertise in design, production, and sourcing, we create on-trend footwear and accessories, delivered through a robust omni-channel infrastructure and national wholesale distribution. At Designer Brands, we are committed to fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity, where each employee’s unique perspective contributes to our success. Anchored by our core values of “We Love What We Do,” “We Own What We Do,” “We Do What’s Right,” and “We Belong,” we continuously drive forward together, building a future where everyone can put their best foot forward. 

This position is HYBRID in our Columbus, OH office.

The Opportunity

At Designer Brands, we’re all about creating a workplace where people feel empowered, valued, and inspired to grow. As an  HR Generalist , you’ll play a key role in both  Talent Acquisition and  Human Resources , contributing across the full talent lifecycle.

This role is ideal for someone who thrives on variety, enjoys building relationships, and wants to make a meaningful impact. You’ll support a designated client group as a trusted HR partner while also managing recruitment and onboarding processes that shape the associate experience from day one. This position is HYBRID in our Columbus, OH office.

What You’ll Be Doing

Associate Experience & HR Partnership

Be a Trusted Advisor

• Serve as the primary HR partner for a designated client group, offering day-to-day support and coaching.
• Provide guidance on HR policies, procedures, and associate relations matters.
• Conduct investigations and recommend resolutions for associate relations issues.

Drive Culture & Engagement

• Support and facilitate talent reviews, training sessions, new leader assimilation, and department meetings.
• Conduct exit interviews and share insights with leadership.
• Assist in executing HR programs and initiatives that enhance associate engagement and culture.

Collaborate Across Teams

• Partner with HR Centers of Excellence, including Compensation, Benefits, and Learning & Development.
• Represent client groups in enterprise-wide HR initiatives and projects.
• Lead and support ad hoc HR projects, ensuring timely execution and alignment with business and associate needs.

Talent Acquisition & Onboarding

Recruit with Purpose

• Source and recruit for entry-level roles, managing the full recruitment lifecycle.
• Coordinate interview logistics and candidate communications to ensure a seamless experience.
• Maintain and analyze recruiting reports and dashboards to inform strategy.

Support Seamless Onboarding

• Facilitate onboarding activities and orientation to ensure a consistent and engaging new hire experience.
• Initiate and maintain employment records and system updates related to new hires, job changes, and other associate actions.

Ensure Fairness & Equity

• Complete compensation worksheets and conduct internal equity analysis to support recommendations.
• Manage associate referral and sign-on bonus programs, ensuring timely and accurate payouts.

What You’ll Need

Required Skills

• Strong business acumen with the ability to align HR strategies with organizational goals.
• Proactive and forward-thinking with a strong sense of ownership.
• Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills; able to build relationships at all levels.
• High attention to detail and ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and experience with Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
• Ability to analyze data and make informed recommendations.
• Comfortable working independently and collaboratively across teams.

Experience & Education

• Experience : 3+ years as an HR Generalist, including exposure to full-cycle recruiting.
• Education : Bachelor’s degree in Human Resources, Business, or a related field—or equivalent experience.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience supporting both HR and Talent functions is preferred.

Perks and Benefits You’ll Enjoy! 

• Your Sole Well-Being: Our benefits package is crafted with our associates in mind! We support you with benefits like free virtual health care, robust family/fertility benefits, 401(k) w/ match, and more. Explore our offerings at .

• Stride with Flexibility: We offer hybrid and remote work opportunities, giving you the freedom to stay connected, productive, and inspired—wherever you do your best work. 

• Stepping Up Your Career: Take advantage of training programs, professional development, and education assistance to advance your career with a company that celebrates bold ideas and fresh perspectives. 

• We are Shoe-Obsessed: Because we know a great pair of shoes can change your day, you’ll enjoy 30% off at DSW & DSW.com , plus discounts across our family of brands. 

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