By Scott Calzolaio

Adriana Robaina of Charlton has been named the new Human Resources Director for the Town of Milford. 

Robaina was appointed during the July 10 meeting of the Milford Select Board, and started on July 31. She replaced Kristin Melpignano who left earlier this year after three years of service to the town.

Robaina has an extensive background in human resources, and a history of working with both municipalities and private businesses. 

Town Administrator, Richard Villani, recommended Robaina after sifting through 47 other applicants. The pool was narrowed to four candidates to be interviewed, before landing on Robaina as their final decision. 

Robaina was most recently employed in Southbridge as the town’s Human Resources Director and Assistant Town Manager. 

“I’m excited and honored to have been selected,” Robaina said in a statement to the Milford Free Press. She said she’s “deeply committed to fostering a supportive, collaborative, and engaging work environment,” and very much looks forward to working with the staff. 

“I am also committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace,” she said, “driving innovative ways to deliver on the commitment of the Town of Milford being a great place to work.”

Robaina comes with a bachelor’s degree in business administration science from Nichols College where she is now completing a dual master’s in business administration and organizational leadership. She is fluent in English and Spanish. 

“I believe she’ll be a valuable addition to the town,” Villani said. “Obviously, she’ll have some big shoes to fill, but she seems very knowledgeable.”

Select Board Chairperson Paul Mazzuchelli pointed out the benefit of hiring someone with experience working for a municipality versus working for a privately owned company.

“What I appreciate is the municipal experience she has,” Mazzuchelli said. “There’s a big difference between private and municipal, it’s a big factor.”

He said that Robaina’s education, and the “gumption” she has to continue that education, says more than enough about her attitude and commitment to qualify her for the position. 

Robaina will start with a first-year salary of $108,763 under grade 13, step 1, article 2 of the pay scale.