In 2009, Julie returned to the workforce, bringing her expertise to Oswego County. For the past 15 years, she has been an integral part of the county’s operations, first as the Human Resources Administrator and, for the last five years, as the Director of Human Resources. Julie’s leadership and dedication to her role have been instrumental in the growth and success of the Human Resources department.

Julie is also actively involved in several professional organizations, including the New York State Association of Self-Insured Counties, the Empire State Safety Association, the New York State Public Employers Labor Relations Association, and being the newly appointed Secretary to the New York State Association of Personnel & Civil Service Officers! These affiliations allow her to stay connected with industry trends and continue her professional development.

One of Julie’s proudest achievements is her appointment as Director of Human Resources, a goal she set early in her career. She attributes much of her success to her team, emphasizing that their collective knowledge and collaboration have been key to the department’s accomplishments. Julie takes pride in the decisions and actions she has implemented over the years, knowing they have had a positive impact on her organization.

Through her work, Julie has learned the importance of patience and active listening—skills she considers invaluable in her role. Her advice to newcomers in civil service is to immerse themselves in learning from local rules, manuals, and mentorship opportunities, as there is a wealth of knowledge available from experienced colleagues.

Outside of work, Julie enjoys traveling, boating, and spending quality time with her family and friends. She values these moments to recharge and find balance in her busy life.

When asked about potential changes or improvements to the civil service system, Julie emphasizes the importance of increasing community awareness and educating both appointing authorities and the public about the civil service process. She is encouraged by the progress made through initiatives like the HELP Program and efforts to revamp the exam process, believing these steps are crucial in attracting and hiring qualified candidates more efficiently.

Julie Bell’s journey in public service is a testament to her commitment, leadership, and the positive influence she has had on Oswego County’s human resources operations. Her story serves as an inspiration to those who aspire to make a difference in the field of civil service.