Marty Fisher, who has worked for BECU, Starbucks and other companies, is the new city of Kent human resources director.
Fisher brings to Kent nearly 20 years of human resources leadership, including jobs at Starbucks, Abercrombie & Fitch, T-Mobile, Flextronics and most recently, BECU.
“Marty’s record of success and achievements were strongly reiterated by his references,” said Mayor Suzette Cooke, who chose Fisher for the job. “He’s noted for being an extremely positive change agent, while also being a strong relationship builder. Our entire interview panel believes he’ll be a great addition to our organization.”
A total of 118 people applied for the job. Fisher will be paid an annual salary of $150,000.
Fisher will oversee a 13-employee department responsible for the attraction, development, and retention of a diverse, well-qualified and professional workforce, as well as classification and compensation, benefits administration, employee safety services, labor relations and training.
“I’m thrilled Mayor Cooke has asked me to join her team as the city’s next human resources director,” said Fisher in a city media release. “I’m excited to be part of such a forward-looking organization. I was attracted to the opportunity because of the city’s focus on excellence and results, and will make every effort to advance the city’s goals and earn the trust of the mayor, City Council, leadership team and staff along the way.
“Kent has so much to offer, especially since growing so much over the past few years. I certainly appreciate the organization’s focus on the future while keeping its values as a compass as it moves forward. I’m thrilled to be a part of it.”
Fisher replaces Lorraine Patterson, who returned to work for King County last summer. Fisher, who has a bachelor of arts degree from Brooklyn College in New York, will begin his job in early February for the city of more than 124,000.
Cooke thanked city risk manager Chris Hills for ably filling the interim role during the search process.
“Chris has done an outstanding job. Kent is fortunate to have such a qualified individual step in during this period of transition,” Cooke said. “I’m pleased he is staying on and returning to his prior role.”
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