Kim Stulken Appointed as City’s Human Resources Director

Published on September 11, 2026

Sioux Falls Mayor Christine Erickson announced the appointment of Kim Stulken as the City of Sioux Falls’ next director of human resources. Stulken brings years of experience with the city’s human resources team and a deep commitment to community-focused public service to the role.

“Kim has a strong history with the city’s human resources team, starting her career with the department 17 years ago,” Mayor Erickson said. “She brings a wealth of experience as our next leader and will continuously look for ways to ensure we are supporting our employees, strengthening our workplace culture and providing exceptional service to the community.”

Stulken began her career with the city in 2009 as an employee relations coordinator, supporting police and fire entrance and promotional processes. She has since advanced into leadership roles, serving as talent manager for employee relations and, most recently, as assistant director of human resources. Stulken has also served in an interim capacity since former director of human resources Bill O’Toole retired in March.

“I am incredibly honored to step into the role of director of human resources,” Stulken said. “I have a passion for service and am excited to support our city employees and residents in this capacity.” 

A Volga, South Dakota, native, Stulken holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Black Hills State University. She and her husband have three children and reside in Sioux Falls. 

The Human Resources department serves the city employees who serve the community. The department has 19 full-time team members who support more than 1,400 full-time and more than 800 seasonal part-time employees across the city’s 12 departments.

The department oversees the following for city employees:

• Recruitment and staffing
• Employee relations
• Learning and development
• Compensation and benefits
• Regulatory compliance
• Labor relations
• Workers’ compensation
• Risk and safety

The Human Resources department supports the city’s Civil Service Board, Firefighter’s Pension Fund Board of Trustees and Employee’s Retirement System Board of Trustees.

Stulken’s appointment is subject to the advice and consent of the Sioux Falls City Council and will be presented for approval at the Sept. 15 city council meeting.