Ann Arbor welcomes new director of human resources

The City of Ann Arbor is introducing Tom Guajardo as its new director of human resources and labor relations. Guajardo will be responsible for the overall management and direction of city human resources programs including organizational development, benefits, compensation, recruitment, employee development, employee health and wellness, as well as being a partner in the labor relations function.

Guajardo has more than 25 years of human resources and labor relations experience. He spent a decade leading the human resources and labor relations functions for the Detroit Zoological Society in Royal Oak, Michigan, where he developed and implemented numerous human resources programs, including the diversity, equity and inclusion master plan which was recognized by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums with the 2015 Angela Peterson Excellence in Diversity Award for the Inclusive Experience.

Guajardo also spent several years leading human resource initiatives for Ilitch Holdings Inc., the Mike and Marian Ilitch family of Companies, and led several human resources and labor relations efforts including the initial development and implementation of diversity and inclusion programs for Little Caesars Pizza, the Detroit Tigers, the Detroit Red Wings, among others.

Guajardo is a graduate of Wayne State University and is currently completing a master’s degree in human resources management, with a focus on diversity and inclusion management, from Georgetown University. He has earned an advanced specialized certificate in intercultural management from the University of Notre Dame, is recognized by Michigan State University as a certified labor relations leader, and is a certified diversity professional, recognized by the National Diversity Council.

Please join the city in welcoming Guajardo to Ann Arbor!