Suffolk Construction has hired Weber Torres to serve in a new role as chief people officer.

As chief people officer, Torres will serve on Suffolk’s executive committee and will oversee the human resources and training departments. He will work closely with Suffolk’s existing vice president of human resources and vice president of learning and development to outline a vision for Suffolk’s long-term plan for people development. The hire is part of the organization’s ongoing commitment to hiring and retaining the industry’s best talent, providing learning and development opportunities for employees, and reinforcing its strong corporate culture and reputation as one of the best places to work in Boston, according to a statement.

Torres brings more than 30 years of human resources and employee development experience to this new role. Prior to joining Suffolk, Torres held positions at Hyatt Hotels Corp., Victoria’s Secret Stores and Staples Inc. Most recently, he served as chief human resources officer of the Harvard School of Public Health.

"I am thrilled that Weber Torres is joining the Suffolk team as our new chief people officer," said Suffolk CEO John Fish. "Weber understands that people are the most important asset of any growing organization, and that continuing to invest in people, regardless of the economic circumstances, is the key to long-term success. We are confident that Weber will take our commitment to and focus on human resources to a new level."

"To develop and maintain a culture of passionate, dedicated employees, an organization must provide more than just monetary benefits; shared values and a commitment to helping people achieve the highest standards of excellence, both professionally and personally, are tremendously important," said Torres. "Suffolk understands this, which is why I am very excited to help the company achieve its ambitious human resources and people development goals."