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Up the Ranks: Bethany Smith takes on new role of SVP and CHRO at Milliken & Company

Up the Ranks: Bethany Smith takes on new role of SVP and CHRO at Milliken & Company

In her new role, Smith will oversee all HR matters on behalf of the diversified global manufacturer.

Milliken & Company has announced Bethany Smith as its new Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer, who will oversee all HR matters on behalf of the diversified global manufacturer.

Smith was appointed CHRO on 12 February, transitioning from her interim period to her formal acceptance of the role. Prior to taking on this new role, she served as Interim Chief Human Resources Officer from October 2023, stepping into the position upon the departure of Craig Haydamack.

Prior to becoming Interim Chief Human Resources Officer, Smith served as Vice President of Human Resources for Milliken's Corporate Support functions, where she provided strategic HR support to Milliken's six corporate enabler functions. She was the HR business partner to the senior leaders of these functions, as well as an active participant in Milliken's diversity, equity, and inclusion programme.

Milliken President and CEO Halsey Cook commented on the appointment: "Bethany stepped up and filled a critical role on our leadership team. Over the years, Bethany has earned the respect and admiration of her colleagues by demonstrating excellence and leadership in every task she takes on. She is the right person to lead human resources at Milliken."

Smith's career in Milliken first started in manufacturing, working in three different plants within Milliken's Textile and Floor Covering divisions. She was part of the project team responsible for rebuilding Live Oak Plant after the 1995 fire. While half of her career has been devoted to Milliken, she also spent fifteen years with MAU Workforce Solutions, providing HR support to numerous global manufacturing companies, including Milliken.

Smith's previous roles include HR VP for Milliken's Healthcare Division, HR Director for Milliken's Textile Business and Director of Talent Acquisition and Learning and Development.

Smith is an engineering graduate of Clemson University, and has held various certifications throughout her career, including Certified Personnel Consultant (National Association of Personnel Services), Korn Ferry Leadership Architect/360, and SHRBP (Human Capital Institute).


Lead image / Milliken & Company

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