The City of Sterling Heights is proud to announce the appointment of Kate Baldwin, the current Human Resources and Benefits Manager, as the new Human Resources Director. Her appointment was confirmed at the Dec. 3 City Council Meeting and will become effective December 9, 2024.
Baldwin has been a dedicated member of the City’s Human Resources team since March 2017, serving as the Human Resources and Benefits Manager. Over the past seven years, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and commitment to fostering a supportive and forward-thinking workplace culture.
During her tenure, Baldwin has been instrumental in modernizing recruitment processes for the Police and Fire Departments and introducing innovative employee benefits that enhance work-life balance and increase employee morale. Notably, she implemented the modified 9/75 and 9/80 work schedules, which allow employees to enjoy extended weekends while maintaining productivity, fostering greater flexibility and job satisfaction. Baldwin’s leadership has been pivotal in creating policies such as parental leave, bereavement policies, and updated residency requirements, all aimed at meeting the diverse needs of the workforce.
Baldwin also led the City’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) journey, coordinating the DEI Strategic Plan, which earned formal recognition for its impact. This initiative has helped foster a more inclusive and welcoming workplace, where employees of all backgrounds feel valued and supported. 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. Baldwin’s efforts have been instrumental in driving the City’s Equality Index Score from 8 points in 2019 to an outstanding 99 points in 2023, further solidifying the City’s reputation as a forward-thinking and inclusive organization.
Baldwin’s credentials include a Bachelor of Business Administration in Human Resources Management from Davenport University and a Professional Human Resources Certificate from the Human Resources Certification Institute. Recently, she earned a Creative Business, Strategy, and Leadership Professional Certificate from Michigan State University. She also serves on the Board of Directors for the Michigan Public Employer Labor Relations Association.
“I am honored to continue serving the City of Sterling Heights in this new capacity,” said Baldwin. “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.”
“Kate Baldwin is an exemplary leader whose dedication to the City and its employees has been unwavering,” said City Manager Mark Vanderpool. “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.”
Baldwin’s appointment underscores the City’s commitment to cultivating leadership and innovation within its organization, ensuring that Sterling Heights remains a leader in municipal government.