Christine Baker is the first woman to head the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR). She was appointed director by Governor Jerry Brown and confirmed by the Legislature in May 2012.

Baker earned a master's degree from the School of Education at the University of California, Berkeley.

She served as the chief of the Division of Labor Statistics and Research from 1984 to 1989 and the acting deputy director of the Division of Workers' Compensation from 1990 until the establishment of the Commission on Health and Safety and Workers' Compensation in 1994. Baker was the executive officer of the commission from its inception until her appointment by Governor Brown.

Baker serves as the vice president of the International Association of Accident Boards and Commissions and has a long history as a member of advisory committees and research groups concerning workers' compensation policy.

In April 2011, Governor Brown appointed her chief deputy director of the DIR.

Christine Baker, Director of Industrial Relations (Official biography)

Governor Brown Announces Appointments (Governor's website)

About the Colloquium Co-chairs (DIR website)

Baker Appointed to Head California's Department of Industrial Relations (Risk & Insurance)