James Boersema, an experienced public-relations strategist with ties to business and labor interests, will take over as Gov. Neil Abercrombie’s new communications director on Monday.

Boersema, a retired Army colonel, worked in communications for Bank of Hawaii and for politicians such as Ben Cayetano when he was lieutenant governor before becoming a partner in the powerhouse Starr Seigle public-relations firm.

Boersema served as communications director for state Senate Democrats this year. He will replace Josh Levinson, one of four young Abercrombie administration policy advisers to resign last week in a staff shakeup.