Profile Overview:
- Name: Bethany Smith
- Position: Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO)
- Company: Milliken & Company
- LinkedIn Profile: [Bethany Smith LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethanysmith1)
Professional Experience:
Bethany Smith was appointed as the Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at Milliken & Company. She has been with Milliken since 1994, starting her career as an industrial engineer and supply chain manager. Notably, she returned to Milliken in 2015 as the Director of Talent Acquisition and subsequently took on additional responsibilities in Learning and Development before being promoted to HR Vice President.
Career Milestones at Milliken:
- Interim CHRO (October 2023 - February 2024): Assumed the interim role after the departure of Craig Haydamack.
- Vice President of HR: Provided strategic HR support for Milliken’s Corporate Functions and Healthcare Division.
- HR Director, Textile Division: Managed HR functions within Milliken’s textile business.
- Director of Talent Acquisition and Learning and Development: Oversaw talent acquisitions and L&D programs.
Bethany has also significantly contributed to the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion initiatives at Milliken and was active in managing HR for Milliken’s corporate support functions.
Previous Experience:
Before rejoining Milliken, Smith worked at MAU Workforce Solutions for 15 years, offering HR support to various global manufacturing companies, including Milliken.
Education:
- Bachelor of Engineering: Clemson University
Designations & Memberships:
- Certified Personnel Consultant (National Association of Personnel Services)
- Korn Ferry Leadership Architect/360
- SHRBP (Human Capital Institute)
Board Memberships:
- Charles Lea Center (Spartanburg, South Carolina)
- University of South Carolina Business Partnership Foundation (Advisory Board)
- YMCA of Spartanburg (Advisory Board)
Key Achievements at Milliken:
- Leadership Role in Rebuilding Live Oak Plant: Following a significant fire in 1995.
- Recognized for Excellence and Leadership: Consistently honored by colleagues and senior management, evidencing her capability to lead and manage HR operations effectively.
- Strategic Contribution to Corporate Functions: Played a pivotal role strategically supporting Milliken’s corporate functions and healthcare initiatives.
Company Overview: Milliken & Company:
Milliken & Company is a global manufacturing leader in materials science, dedicated to delivering advanced solutions across various industries including textiles, specialty chemicals, flooring, and healthcare. The company prides itself on sustainable innovations and a strong ethical framework, underscored by its numerous patents and high-impact products.
Corporate Leadership:
- President and CEO: Halsey M. Cook Jr.
- EVP and President, Chemical: Cindy Boiter
- EVP of Operations: Michael Brown
- SVP, Chief Legal Officer, and Secretary: Kasel Knight
Milliken is recognized as one of the Top 100 Global Most Loved Workplaces by Newsweek in 2024, reflecting its reputable work environment and employee satisfaction.
Recent Developments:
Bethany Smith’s announcement as the official CHRO effective February 20, 2024, marks a continuation of her interim role. Her leadership is expected to further strengthen Milliken’s HR strategies and workplace culture, fostering a progressive and inclusive work environment.
This detailed report outlines the professional background of Bethany Smith, focusing on her significant roles and achievements at Milliken & Company.
