The Challenge

Sherwin-Williams, a global leader in paints and coatings, needed a trusted HR partner to support its widespread European operations across 11 countries.

The company faced fragmented HR practices due to decentralized management and varying compliance standards. With no consistent oversight across its smaller entities, there was a growing need for:

• Local HR compliance reviews and documentation audits,
• A centralized and consistent HR framework,
• Reliable recruitment and payroll coordination, and
• An external HR Business Partner to oversee and align regional HR practices.

Sherwin-Williams sought a partner capable of providing both strategic HR leadership and hands-on operational execution across multiple jurisdictions.

The Solution

Europe HR Solutions was appointed to conduct a multi-country HR audit and implementation program, followed by ongoing HRBP and payroll support.

Our engagement included:

• Performing HR audits in all 11 countries to assess compliance and identify risks.
• Designing and implementing corrective measures in employment contracts, handbooks, and HR policies.
• Managing local payroll vendor coordination to ensure timely and compliant payroll delivery.
• Providing recruitment support for regional roles and leadership positions.
• Acting as the external HR Business Partner (HRBP) for management teams in each country.
• Delivering ongoing advice on employee relations, terminations, and HR procedures.

The collaboration established a consistent HR operating model across all Sherwin-Williams entities in the region.

The Results

• Full compliance and HR standardization achieved across 11 European countries.
• Audits completed and implementations delivered efficiently and consistently.
• Payroll and recruitment processes aligned under one coordinated framework.
• Centralized HR governance introduced, reducing legal and operational risks.
• Ongoing HR partnership established, providing stability and continuity across regions.

This project demonstrates Europe HR Solutions’ capability to manage complex, multi-country HR ecosystems, combining compliance, operations, and strategic business partnering under one unified approach.