As part of a continuing effort to revamp Harvard's sometimes troubled relations with its neighbors, Minneapolis lawyer Travis McCready has assumed the post of director of community relations for Cambridge.

He replaces Mary H. Power, who was promoted from the position last year to become senior director of community relations, a more strategy-based position that is not focused on a particular area.

Both McCready and Power work in the office of the vice president for government, community and public affairs, Paul S. Grogan, whose arrival a year and a half ago heralded major changes for relations with Cambridge and nearby communities.

McCready's appointment is the result of a nationwide search with more than 100 applicants, according to a news release. He heard about the job on the Internet, when he put his criteria for an ideal job into a search website.

"We're very happy to have him on board. We were not expecting to look beyond the local community," Power said. "His qualities and background were so perfectly suited to this position that it seemed the right thing."

Power pointed to McCready's diverse experience--from education to law--as a significant strength.

"We were immediately very impressed with his background and personal qualities," she said. "He has tremendous experience with difficult negotiations, [and] experience as a fifth grade teacher."

McCready and Power are now in the process of transition for the duties of the position.