John Hudak

Background

About John Hudak

Forward-thinking, people-centric HR executive with a strong track record of building scalable, high-impact human resources systems & teams that accelerate business growth. Currently serving as Vice President of Human Resources at Kilwins—a premium chocolate manufacturer and ice cream franchisor with over 180 locations nationwide.*Leads enterprise-wide HR operations across both the franchising and manufacturing divisions, supporting a diverse workforce of 300+ employees across multiple states. A key leader in Kilwins’ 2023 transition from 75 years of private, family ownership to private equity ownership under Levine Leichtman Capital Partners.*Collaborates closely with executive leadership to align HR initiatives with business objectives, strengthen organizational design, modernize HR technology, and drive talent attraction and retention. Recent achievements include a 20% reduction in manufacturing turnover, successful implementation of a new HRIS platform, and foundational work to support national expansion to 400 franchise locations.*Brings deep expertise in workforce planning, performance management, organizational development, compliance, and culture transformation. Passionate about building purpose-driven workplaces where people thrive—and where values like respect, excellence, and fun are more than just words—they're part of the everyday experience.My Goal:"Making a difference every day" through personal interactions with my family, friends, coworkers, clients, and people I meet along the way of living life. Favorite Quotes: “For things to change, you have to change.” Jim Rohn |"You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems." James ClearMy Strengthfinders Top 5 Traits: Responsibility, Maximizer, Relator, Developer, Learner (Dominant Theme - Executing - know how to "catch" an idea and make it a reality.)DiSC Profile/Style: Influence (I), Steadiness (S), CoachPredictive Index: CollaboratorSoftware Skills:• Paycor, BambooHR - HRIS, JazzHR - ATS, Applicant Pro - ATS, Paychex Flex - HRIS, Employee Navigator, Google Workspace, Microsoft Office 365, Microsoft Teams, Basecamp, Asana, Zoom, Slack, ThinkHRI enjoy running & cycling. I've run many half marathons and a few full marathons. You can apply many principles in training for marathons to business, leadership, and life.