Tacoma is ushering in Linnaea Jablonski as the city's new Human Resources Director, a move announced by Interim City Manager Hyun Kim. The City Council has given its approval to her appointment, which took place on Tuesday, as reported by Tacoma's official news site. Jablonski, who boasts a background rich in public sector duties, has almost twenty years of experience under her belt and is no stranger to labor negotiations and spearheading strategic plans.
With her latest stint as the HR Director for Fairfax County, Virginia, Jablonski led a large team and managed a budget that surely few can dispute was hefty, with an annual payroll reaching $1.3 billion. Her journey back to the City of Tacoma also signifies a return to familiar ground in Washington state, where she first honed her skills and expertise, having previously held the HR Director position for the City of Olympia, successfully navigating labor contracts there.
The interim city manager has extended a hearty welcome to Jablonski. In a statement obtained by Tacoma's official news site, Hyun Kim expressed enthusiasm for her onboard journey, highlighting her "comprehensive experience in Washington state" coupled with her "proven leadership in Fairfax County, Virginia," according to the City of Tacoma. Jablonski's background makes her the model candidate to lead Tacoma's Human Resources Department through its continued endeavor to support staff and serve the community.
Expressing her eagerness to serve Tacoma, Jablonski shared her excitement at returning to Washington state. She told Tacoma's official news site, "I am passionate about public service and look forward to collaborating with City leadership and staff to foster a positive workplace culture and implement strategic initiatives that benefit our employees and the entire community." Her academic qualifications include a Master of Arts in Negotiations & Conflict Resolution from California State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Economics & Race Relations from The Evergreen State College. Jablonski's tenure is slated to kick off on February 9, 2026.
