Reynolds Appoints Jim Kurtenbach to Lead State’s Human Resources Department

DES MOINES, Iowa – Gov. Kim Reynolds announced the appointment of Jim Kurtenbach, 62, to serve as director of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services, effective July 1, 2019. Kurtenbach is a former state lawmaker serving in the Iowa House of Representatives from 2003 to 2007. He also served as the Republican Party of Iowa chairman from 2007 to 2009.

Kurtenbach replaces Janet Phipps Burkhead who left the department last month after failing to receive confirmation by the Iowa Senate. The state’s human resources department has been without a director since.

“Appointing Jim to this vital position is another important step in assembling a proven team to carry out my priorities for Iowa. He will do an outstanding job at the department,” Reynolds said. “His leadership, depth of experience and distinguished career in public service will greatly benefit Iowans.”

“It’s an honor to serve the State of Iowa in this important role,” said Jim Kurtenbach. “At the Iowa Department of Administrative Services, I will continue to build upon Iowan’s expectations for transparency, accessibility, and assistance at every level.”

Kurtenbach also served as vice president and chief information officer of Iowa State University, associate dean of ISU’s College of Engineering and associate professor of Accounting. Kurtenbach has a Ph.D. in Accounting from the University of Missouri and an M.S. in Accounting from the University of Tulsa. He earned a B.S. in Industrial Administration from Iowa State University. Kurtenbach has also served various industries in corporate leadership roles. He lives in Nevada, Iowa with his wife Annmarie.