Matthew P. Hawes

Matthew Hawes has served as Cleveland Metroparks’ Chief Human Resources Officer since 2026. He previously served as the Director of Human Resources and Employment Counsel for Cleveland Metroparks since 2013. In this role, Matthew oversaw employee benefits, compensation, compliance, and employee/labor relations for the 1,500+ employees that serve the Park District and Cleveland Metroparks Zoo.

Prior to joining Cleveland Metroparks, Matthew worked in several capacities for Cuyahoga County government, including Deputy Inspector General, Assistant Legal Counsel, and Employee Relations Manager. In addition, Matthew practiced in the areas of employment and municipal law at the firm Rademaker, Matty, McClelland & Greve.

Matthew holds a Juris Doctorate degree from Cleveland Marshall College of Law and was admitted to the practice of law in the State of Ohio in 2005.

Outside of work, Matthew serves on the Board of Directors for Shoes and Clothes for Kids and has previously taught public sector human resources classes as an adjunct professor at the Cleveland State University Levin College of Urban Affairs.