MOHAVE COUNTY – Mohave County is looking for a new Human Resources Director following the recent resignation of Ken Cunningham. The news was not unexpected as Cunningham intended to exit in January.
“I planned on retiring and then I got offered another job, so I decided to take the other job,” Cunningham said. “I’m going to retire from the county and take the other job.”
Cunningham’s last day with the county will be Nov. 15th and he expects to begin his new job as HR Manager for the GEO private prison on Nov. 18.
Cunningham praised Sam Elters and told the county manager he enjoyed working with him in his Oct. 24 resignation communication.
“Ken has served Mohave County well and with integrity for over ten years,” Elters said. “He provided stability and leadership to the Human Resources Department during difficult employment periods.”
Cunningham said there’s no problem or drama associated with his departure and transition.
“I’ve been asked to stay. I’ve been asked to reconsider, so there’s nothing bad about leaving the county,” Cunningham said. “You know I’ve been Director here for 11 years and I just need kind of a change.”
Cunningham said the County HR Director position is open until filled and posted. He speculated interviews could be conducted in early Dec. or possibly in early Jan., depending on how many applications are submitted.
Elters said oversight of personnel matters associated with an 1,150 member workforce is very important to Mohave County.
“One can’t overstate the value of a talented Human Resources Director,” Eters said. He said the county is looking for a new director with a skill set including talent, innovation and experience.
Dave Hawkins
