Human Resources
Welcome to Human Resources
The Department of Human Resources partners with city agencies and employees to hire, compensate, support, and develop a diverse workforce that is dedicated to delivering high-quality services to the community. The department designs and manages the City’s Human Resources programs and fosters the development of innovative policies and practices.
Calvin W. Blackburn III, Commissioner
Calvin is a native son of Atlanta and a proud product of the Atlanta Public School system. He graduated from Dartmouth College, and later, Vanderbilt University School of Law. For nearly 23 years, he worked in private practice as labor and employment litigator for various law firms in Atlanta and Alabama. In that capacity, he provided legal representation, counsel and advice to human resources departments for large and small companies, colleges and governmental entities. In 2020, Calvin joined the City of Atlanta’s Department of Law, where he was ultimately promoted to Division Chief for Litigation. Calvin moved to the city’s Department of Human Resources in July of 2024 as Interim Commissioner. There, he helped stabilize the department and drive the completion and implementation of several important projects, including the citywide class and compensation study. We look forward to his continued leadership as the Commissioner for the Department of Human Resources.
Kimberly J. Finley
Deputy Commissioner (Employee Experience)
Tel: 404.330.6075
Michael D. Kirkwood
Deputy Commissioner (Compliance and Regulation)
Tel: 404.330.6493
The City of Atlanta’s Department of Human Resources attracts, develops, inspires and retains employees who move Atlanta Forward by providing best-in-class service and support to employees, retirees and residents.
The Department Human will positively impact the city by creating policies, practices, procedures, and a culture that ensures that customer service focused employees serve in each and every position.
Core Values
• Acquire and retain top talent
• Promote employee health and financial wellness
• Create a learning environment that sustains a culture of excellence
• Promote fairness and equitable treatment for all applicants and employees
• Ensure compliance with employment-related laws and regulations
• Develop a culture of performance