In the heart of Greene County, you’ll find Nicole Maggio, a dynamic leader whose career journey reflects resilience, adaptability, and a genuine passion for making a difference. From her early days as a lobbyist to her current role as the Director of Human Resources and Executive Secretary to the Civil Service Commission, Nicole’s path is a testament to the power of perseverance and community commitment.

Nicole’s story begins in the picturesque Finger Lakes region of New York, where she graduated from Wells College in 1997 with a degree in Public Affairs, concentrating in Government and Politics. Shortly after, she embarked on her professional journey as a lobbyist for the New York State Teachers’ Retirement System, advocating for educators and shaping policies that impact the public sector.

After five years in lobbying, Nicole shifted her focus to raising her family, dedicating time to her son and two daughters. But even during this chapter, her leadership skills flourished. She managed a local church preschool, serving as both the President of the Preschool Board and the Administrator—a role that kept her connected to community service while honing her administrative expertise.

In 2016, Nicole re-entered the workforce, stepping into public service once again as a Senior Human Resources & Civil Service Aide for Greene County. Her return marked the beginning of a new chapter filled with growth, challenges, and impactful leadership.

By 2020, Nicole’s dedication and expertise earned her the role of Director of Human Resources during a pivotal time when both the Civil Service Administrator and the prior Director retired within months of each other. The merging of the Civil Service Department into the Human Resources Department created an opportunity—and Nicole rose to the challenge.

As Director of Human Resources, Nicole describes herself as a true “Jill of all trades.” Whether she’s navigating union negotiations, handling employee relations, or strategizing with a Town Supervisor, no two days are the same. Despite the fast pace, Nicole embraces the chaos with enthusiasm. “There’s never a dull moment, and my County Administrator likes to remind me that I asked for this!” she jokes. She credits her success to her amazing support team, expressing deep gratitude for the people who help her thrive in this demanding role.

Nicole’s dedication to service extends well beyond her official titles. She holds key roles as the Greene County Discriminatory and Sexual Harassment Prevention Officer and serves on several committees, including the Hazard Reduction Committee, the Wellness Committee, and the Bloodborne Pathogen Committee.

Her passion for community involvement doesn’t stop there. Nicole is a former Cairo-Durham School District Board Member, a role she cherished until stepping down due to her responsibilities with the Civil Service Commission. She’s also been actively involved with her local church board, the Little League board, the school PTA, and even served as both the JV Girls Soccer Coach and the Varsity Boys Soccer Coach for Cairo-Durham—showcasing her dedication to youth development and mentorship.

One of Nicole’s proudest achievements in her role was the creation of “Operation Affirmation,” a wellness initiative designed to boost employee morale. Through monthly “Shout Outs,” employees recognize and celebrate their colleagues’ contributions. The human resources team curates these submissions, displaying them on themed bulletin boards, sharing photos online, and sending out affirmations via email.

“When the program first started, some employees thought it was silly,” Nicole admits, “but it’s become something everyone looks forward to—seeing the new theme, reading the acknowledgments, and celebrating each other.” The initiative has become a cornerstone of office culture, fostering positivity and a strong sense of community.

Reflecting on her career, Nicole highlights patience as the most valuable skill she’s developed. “Patience has not always been my strongest attribute,” she confesses, “but dealing with so many personalities at different levels of government has taught me its importance. The more patient I am, the easier it is to resolve situations effectively.”

Her advice to those new to civil service? “Ask for help.” Nicole credits the New York State Association of Personnel and Civil Service Officers (NYSAPCSO) for providing invaluable support when she first became the Director. The connections she made at her first conference continue to be her go-to network for advice and collaboration. “Not only did they offer great guidance, but they reassured me that I wasn’t alone in the chaos!”

If given the chance to change the civil service system, Nicole would advocate for eliminating the standardized testing model, not just in civil service but in K-12 education as well. “It’s no longer reflective of how we work in today’s world,” she explains. Nicole believes in evaluating candidates based on their problem-solving abilities and practical experience, rather than relying solely on memorization and multiple-choice exams.

Outside of work, Nicole treasures time with her now young adult children, enjoying their company as they embark on their own life journeys. She’s also an avid outdoor enthusiast, finding joy in camping, boating, jet skiing, snowmobiling, and taking scenic rides through the Catskill Mountains on her family’s “new-to-us” Harley.

Nicole Maggio’s story is one of growth, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to both her community and profession. Her ability to adapt, inspire, and advocate for meaningful change makes her a standout member of the civil service community—and a role model for those who aspire to make a difference.

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