Ellie Southern, human resources generalist for the Kingsport Mill, was recently named to the 32nd class of the 40 Under Forty honorees by the Tri-Cities Business Journal.
“This award reflects the support and encouragement I have received from my family and community mentors,” Southern said. “I hope to continue making a meaningful impact at the mill and in our region.”
In her role, Southern has skillfully partnered with the mill’s management teams to build an employee-centric culture that promotes servant leadership, positive morale and optimized HR processes.
Beyond her day-to-day responsibilities, she actively participates as co-chair of PEAK Young Professionals. She is also a member at large for the United Way of Greater Kingsport. She leads and supports the Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) Council as part of the USW-Domtar Master Agreement.
“Teaching staff D&I is not treating people as tokens, but bringing to the forefront of our minds how our common personal values unite us as people,” Southern said.
Southern and other award recipients were recognized with a ceremony held at the Johnson City Country Club on Nov. 2.
