City HR Undergoes Reorganization

Veronica Sanchez has been promoted to assistant director of the City’s Human Resources Department as part of a reorganization that includes the launch of a management training program for new supervisors.

As assistant director of Human Resources/Risk Management, Sanchez will oversee development of a management training program for newly appointed supervisors, superintendents and managers.

“We often promote people into supervisory positions because they excel at their job,” Sanchez said. “But that doesn’t necessarily mean they are armed with the skill sets required to lead, to manage and to supervise. This new program will be a systematic effort to prepare those new supervisors and ensure their success.”

A certified public manager, Sanchez joined the City in 2007. She had served as the Human Resources manager since 2008. In her new position, she will be more integrally involved in the Risk Management Division, whose responsibilities revolve around three concepts: protecting City property from loss or damage, protecting City staff by providing a safe work environment, and the resolution of liability claims against the City.

“Veronica is a talented, dedicated employee,” Human Resources Director Lisa Marley said. “Her promotion and this reorganization will make even greater use of her abilities to the benefit of all of our colleagues. We’re especially excited about the prospect of providing professional growth opportunities for new supervisors.”

As part of the departmental reorganization, Charles Hagen’s position has been upgraded from safety coordinator to training and development specialist, responsible for delivering all HR training and facilitating the new management training program, along with continuing all City-wide safety training. Hagen joined the City in 2011.

Also, Christina Chavez was promoted from HR specialist to HR generalist. In addition to her current duties, she will be responsible for Affordable Care Act reporting requirements and benefit premiums reconciliation.