Paula Larson is joining Newell Rubbermaid as chief HR officer.

Paula Larson is joining Newell Rubbermaid as chief HR officer.

Newell Rubbermaid Inc.’s new human resources chief has worked on projects in 80 countries and will prioritize diversity as the Atlanta-based consumer brands company continues expanding abroad.

Paula Larson has been appointed executive vice president and chief human resources officer effective Dec. 16. She will replace James Sweet, who is retiring after 10 years with the company.

Ms. Larson, 50, has lived in Asia, Europe and North America. She was most recently head of human resources for Western Union Co. She also previously worked with London-based Invensys plc. In both positions, she managed the people side of complex business transitions.

Extending beyond U.S. borders is one of “five ways to win” outlined in the company’s Growth Game Plan. While most of Newell Rubbermaid’s revenues come from North America and Europe, the company has realized that middle class consumers who buy Graco baby products, Sharpie markers and Rubbermaid containers are increasingly found in developing countries like Brazil and China.

Before joining Invensys, Ms. Larson helped support the globalization of the hydraulics unit at Eaton Corp. She also worked 10 years with GE and five years for a global human resources consultancy.

Source: Global Atlanta