L. Todd Allen has been named Howard County's director of human resources, County Executive Ken Ulman announced last week. Allen replaces Nan Shull, who retired last month after 32 years with the county.

Most recently, Allen has served as director of human resources for Howard Community College. He will spend the next six weeks at the community college before joining the Ulman administration May 12.

Allen has more than 20 years of experience as a human resource leader, consultant and trainer. He has taught courses at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County; Anne Arundel Community College; and Howard Community College.

"I think Todd's many years of experience in both the public and private sector has provided him unique insight into what works well for all types of employees," Ulman said in a statement.

"I am looking forward to joining the Howard County government work force and am excited to further contribute to the community in which I live and work," Allen said.

Allen obtained his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, double majoring in psychology and economics. He holds a Master of Science in human resource management from the University of Maryland, College Park, and has also completed a Morgan State University doctoral fellows program in community college leadership.