When Sterling Heights city officials were searching for a new human resources director, they didn’t have to look far.

Kate Baldwin became the HR director this week, after her appointment was confirmed at the Dec. 3 city council meeting. She formerly served as human resources and benefits manager.

“I look forward to building on the successes of the Human Resources Division and working to further enhance the lives of our employees and the community we serve,” Baldwin said in a news release.

Baldwin has been a member of the Sterling Heights human resources team since March 2017. In that time, officials said she has demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment to fostering a supportive workplace culture.

During her tenure, Baldwin has been instrumental in modernizing recruitment processes for the police and fire departments as well as introducing innovative employee benefits that increase employee morale, according to the release.

She implemented modified work schedules to allow employees to enjoy extended weekends while maintaining productivity and fostering greater flexibility. She also has been credited with creating policies such as parental leave, bereavement policies, and updated residency requirements.

City Manager Mark Vanderpool called Baldwin an “exemplary leader.”

“Her proven track record of driving organizational success, implementing transformative policies, and prioritizing employee well-being makes her the ideal choice for human resources director,” Vanderpool said.

Baldwin also led the city’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) program, coordinating the DEI Strategic Plan, which earned formal recognition for its impact. Additionally, her contributions include the creation of Sterling U, an employee development and education program, and the launch of Activate,” the City’s first HR-focused employee newsletter.

According to the release, Baldwin’s efforts have been instrumental in driving the city’s Equality Index Score from 8 points in 2019 to 99 points in 2023.