Howard County Executive Calvin Ball this week announced the appointment of Anju Bennett as Administrator for the Office of Human Resources, effective September 1, 2021. Bennett currently serves as the Corporate Policy and Management Operations Director for the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission (M-NCPPC.)
Bennett has over three decades of experience leading human resources programs, corporate governance, and operations management. Her areas of expertise include organizational policy development, labor relations, contract negotiations, employee relations, group insurance programs, risk management, workplace safety, and budget administration.
“During our extensive search process, Anju shared her belief that responsive and innovative governance is essential to the continued success of every resident and visitor to our County,” said County Executive Ball. “Her professional background, experience, skills, personal story, and community involvement make her the ideal candidate to take our Office of Human Resources to a new level.”
According to a County press release:
“In addition to her work at M-NCPPC, Anju brings considerable experience from the private sector, where she worked as a contractor for NASA, Ford Aerospace, and other firms,” said Lonnie R. Robbins, Chief Administrative Officer. “She has a proven track record of offering leadership and strategies to enhance quality assurance and employee/management engagement.”
Bennett holds a B.S. in Business Management from the University of Maryland, College Park, with concentrations in finance and economics. She is certified in group insurance plan design and funding, conflict resolution, and as a diversity engagement trainer. She is an active member of the Society of Human Resources and Management, the Maryland Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA), and the Society of Corporate Compliance and Ethics (SCCE).
Bennett has also served on several Boards including non-profit organizations, and as a Trustee for public pension and benefit plans.
She replaces Wanda Hutchinson, who retired in June.