Commissioners Reorganize Human Resource Department, Hire New Director

As the commissioners continue to look for opportunities to streamline programming and optimize efficiencies, the Human Resources (HR) Department is being reorganized to focus on employee training & development, recruitment and retention, and labor relations. During today’s General Session, Commissioners approved the hiring of Robert J. Young (43004) as the new director of their Human Resources Department. Young is a licensed attorney with more than 16 years of human resources experience both public and private sector, including service as the former Human Resources Administrator for the Ohio Department of Public Safety. Young begins his new position today and will be paid an annual salary of $88,000.

“We welcome Rob and his vast experience and expertise to our team,” said Commissioner Marilyn Brown. “His focus will be on recruiting the best and brightest to Franklin County, developing and retaining our employees, and collective bargaining.
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Previous HR Director Margaret K. Snow (43212) possesses 35 years of human resources experience, including having received her Senior Profession in Human Resources (SPHR), and has a specialization in Health Benefits. She will move into a leadership role within the Benefits Department using her skills and broad experience to focus on the coordination of Employee Benefits, Risk Management, and the administration of the Franklin County Cooperative Health Benefits Program that includes county employees from Franklin County, and Fairfield and Pickaway Counties.

The Benefits Department will focus on
looking for opportunities to further collaborate with other local governments and expand the Cooperative Health Benefits Program through a shared services arrangement with other Central Ohio jurisdictions.

The reorganization is a budget neutral measure and focuses on improving customer service.

“This separation of departments positions us to better look for opportunities in which to share services,” said Commissioner Paula Brooks. “Increasing operational efficiency and finding ways to partner with other entities will lower our overhead costs.”

“This is another move in the right direction toward leaner government, regional collaboration and giving the public the best bang for their buck,” said Commissioner John O’Grady.

Directors Snow and Young will report to Deputy County Administrator for Resource Management, Kenneth Wilson.