Joliet City Manager Beth Beatty announced that Elizabeth Coronado Abrego, a seasoned human resources executive and military veteran, has been selected as the City’s new Human Resources Director.

Abrego was chosen following a competitive selection process that drew a highly qualified pool of candidates. With more than 20 years of experience in human resources management — including 11 years of service with the City of Aurora — Abrego brings a wealth of expertise and a proven record of leadership to the city’s executive team, according to a press release from the city.

In this role, Abrego will oversee all aspects of the city’s human resources operations, including employee and labor relations, recruitment and retention, training and development, compensation and benefits, and diversity and inclusion initiatives. She will also play a key role in strategic planning, policy development, and fostering a positive and productive workplace culture for the city’s workforce.

“Elizabeth’s extensive background in HR leadership, combined with her service as a military veteran and more than a decade of municipal HR experience in Aurora, makes her an outstanding choice to lead our Human Resources Department,” said Beatty, in the release.

“We are confident that she will strengthen our organization, support our employees, and help us continue to deliver high-quality services to the residents of Joliet.”

Abrego’s distinguished career reflects her commitment to excellence in public service. Prior to joining Joliet, she served in senior human resources leadership roles with the City of Aurora, where she successfully implemented workforce development initiatives, modernized HR systems, and enhanced employee engagement programs.

Her professional experience spans both public and private sectors, where she has built a reputation for promoting collaboration, accountability, and innovation.

“As the Human Resources Director, my vision is to strengthen government transparency, modernize our practices through the efficient use of technology, and create a people-centered HR department that empowers employees to thrive,” said Abrego in the release.

“By aligning innovation with accountability, we will build trust, enhance services, and ensure that the City of Joliet remains a model of excellence and inclusion for both employees and residents.”

Abrego is a proud military veteran and holds multiple professional certifications in human resources and leadership development. She will officially assume her new role on Nov. 24, 2025, following the retirement of longtime Human Resources Director Kathy Franson.