Melanie Rivers

About Melanie Rivers

I’m a strategic and business forward HR executive with over 20 years of experience driving transformation across global manufacturing, biotech, and technology organizations. As a trusted advisor to CEOs and Boards, I specialize in aligning people strategy with business goals to unlock performance, foster inclusive cultures, and build resilient, future-ready organizations.Currently serving as SVP & Chief Human Resources Officer at Accuray, I lead global HR strategy for a 1,100-employee enterprise, partnering with senior leadership to drive innovation, operational excellence, and cultural evolution. My career spans high-impact roles at Genus Plc, Amcor, and Spectrum Brands, where I’ve led M&A integrations, built global teams, and implemented scalable systems and talent strategies.I bring deep expertise in:Strategic business partneringOrganizational design and effectivenessLabor relations (union and non-union)DE & I leadershipSuccession planning and executive coachingChange management and digital HR transformationFluent in GermanI’m passionate about building high-performing teams, empowering leaders, and creating workplaces where people thrive. I\'m a CHRO/ HR Business Partner who blends strategic insight with operational execution—and knows how to lead through change.

Experience

1. SVP, Chief Human Resources Officer

   Accuray

   Jul 2024 — Present

Education

• University of Wisconsin-Madison

  B.A., German & Political Science

  2002 — 2006

• Middletown High School

  High School Diploma

  1999 — 2002

• Penn State University

  Master’s Degree , Human Resources and Employment Relations

  2016 — 2017