The city of Saco appointed Hunter Cox, the former Buxton human resources director, to the same role in Saco. Cox officially began his role on Monday.

As human resources director, Cox will oversee all HR functions, including employee relations, recruiting, compliance and organizational development for the city’s workforce of more than 200 full-time employees and over 100 seasonal employees.

Saco Mayor Jodi MacPhail said HR is a “pivotal” department within the city organization, and the city is “looking forward” to bringing Cox in to lead and direct city employees.

“With his diverse background, experience and forward vision he will be a positive leader to all of our staff,” MacPhail said.

Cox is a senior certified professional from the Society for Human Resource Management and certified as a professional in human resources from the HR Certification Institute.

He holds a master’s degree in public administration from Southern Utah University and a Juris Doctorate from South Texas College of Law.

City Administrator John Bohenko said Cox’s excellent work experience and education “are sure to maintain” Saco’s well-organized HR operations.

“We are thrilled to welcome Hunter to our leadership team,” Bohenko said.

Cox most recently served as HR director for Buxton, where he established the HR department from the ground up while also managing town communications and serving as selectmen’s assistant.

In a press release, Cox said he is “honored” to join the Saco team.

“This community has a strong legacy of public service, and I’m excited to contribute to that tradition by continuing to foster a workplace culture rooted in collaboration, employee excellence, and innovation,” Cox said.

As director, Cox hopes to support Saco’s dedicated employees, attract top talent, and ensure HR practices reflect the values and diversity of the city.

“Together, we will continue to build a resilient organization that delivers exceptional service to our residents,” Cox said.