'With an extensive management background, Maxim will ensure that the Human Rights Campaign's programs are rooted in a highly efficient infrastructure,' said Human Rights Campaign President Joe Solmonese.

WASHINGTON - The Human Rights Campaign announced today that Maxim Thorne, a business leader with extensive management experience that includes Legal Services and New Jersey Head Start, will join as the chief operating officer on Nov. 1.

"With an extensive management background, Maxim will ensure that the Human Rights Campaign's programs are rooted in a highly efficient infrastructure," said HRC President Joe Solmonese. "His experience will bring us to the next level of non-profit management and we're excited to have him joining the team."

As chief operating officer, Thorne will oversee the financial, human resources, information technology and operations aspects of the Human Rights Campaign.

"I couldn't be more excited to join this incredible staff," said Thorne, who previously served for three years as the executive director of New Jersey's Head Start Association. "The work of the Human Rights Campaign is very close to my heart and I'm proud to be lending my skills to the fight for equality."

At New Jersey Head Start, Thorne was responsible for the increase in federal and state funding from $132 million to almost $300 million. He's also overseen the development of a more efficient information technology system and implemented comprehensive changes to human resources policies to assist in recruitment and retention. His resume also includes serving as the Passaic County (N.J.) Legal Aid Society's deputy director. In 1995 and 1996, Thorne worked for the Council on the Environment of New York City. Thorne also worked as a legal consultant for the United Nation's Global Conference for the Sustainable Development of Small Island Developing States in 1993 and 1994.

Thorne holds two degrees from Yale University: a Juris Doctor in law, from 1992, and a Bachelor of Arts in economics and political science, from 1989. Thorne also serves on the Finance Committee and the African-American Leadership Council of the Democratic National Committee, is the vice president of the Board of Directors of the Paterson Alliance and is the vice president of the Board of Planned Parenthood of Metropolitan New Jersey, among other leadership roles.

The Human Rights Campaign is the largest national lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender political organization with members throughout the country. It effectively lobbies Congress, provides campaign support and educates the public to ensure that LGBT Americans can be open, honest and safe at home, at work and in the community.