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The Los Angeles Unified Board voted 6-0 today to appoint Vivian Ekchian to the newly created position of chief labor negotiator. The district’s chief human resources officer since 2007, she will be responsible for negotiating agreements with all labor unions that hold contracts with the District.

She begins her new job immediately.

“I congratulate Vivian on her new position,” said Superintendent John Deasy. “Her vast, extensive knowledge of employment issues and excellent personal skills will be a tremendous asset in advocating on behalf of all our employees.”

Ekchian started working for the L.A. Unified as a teacher in 1985. During her nearly 30- year career with the district, she has also served as a principal, director of instruction, and administrator of secondary instruction.

“I’m grateful to the Board for the confidence and trust they have shown in me,” said Ekchian. “I’m eager to get started continuing the negotiating process with all our labor partners.”