Leadership Overview
LifeWay has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, information technology, marketing, operations, finance, and human resources.
Driven by a mission to serve churches and individuals, LifeWay provides essential resources and services, fostering spiritual growth and operational excellence across the faith community.
Driven by a mission to serve churches and individuals, LifeWay provides essential resources and services, fostering spiritual growth and operational excellence across the faith community.
Leadership Roles at LifeWay
Ryan Blackwell - President & Chief Executive Officer
Ryan Blackwell, the President & Chief Executive Officer at LifeWay, directs the overall strategic vision and operational execution for the organization. Blackwell guides the company's mission to serve churches and individuals through publishing and distribution, ensuring alignment with the Southern Baptist Convention's objectives. This leadership role involves overseeing all major divisions and driving growth initiatives across the media and church services sectors. Blackwell's focus remains on enhancing LifeWay's market position and impact within the faith-based community. The President & Chief Executive Officer ensures robust financial health and sustainable expansion. By championing innovation, Ryan Blackwell propels LifeWay forward, solidifying its role as a key provider of Christian resources and business services.

Cossy Pachares - Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
Cossy Pachares, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at LifeWay, directs the financial strategy and fiscal management for the organization. Pachares oversees all aspects of financial planning, budgeting, accounting, and investment, ensuring the long-term financial health and sustainability of LifeWay. This executive position involves managing financial risks and identifying opportunities for profitable growth within the publishing and distribution sectors. The Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer ensures compliance with financial regulations and provides critical insights to support strategic decision-making. By maintaining rigorous financial oversight, Cossy Pachares safeguards the company's assets and supports its mission to serve churches and individuals. Pachares's financial acumen drives fiscal responsibility and growth.
Joseph Walker - Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer
Joseph Walker, the Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer at LifeWay, manages the day-to-day operational functions and ensures the seamless execution of business processes across the company. Walker oversees supply chain management, distribution logistics, and internal operational efficiencies critical to LifeWay's publishing and distribution division. This role involves optimizing resource allocation and streamlining workflows to support the organization's mission effectively. The Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer ensures that operational strategies align with LifeWay's commitment to serving churches and individuals with high-quality resources. By driving operational excellence, Joseph Walker enhances the company's capacity to deliver products and services reliably. Walker's leadership guarantees efficient and effective business operations.

Timothy Hill - Chief Information Officer
Timothy Hill, the Chief Information Officer at LifeWay, architects the technology infrastructure and digital strategy supporting the company's publishing and distribution operations. Hill oversees the development and implementation of IT systems that enhance efficiency and user experience for both internal teams and external customers. This critical role involves managing data security, cloud services, and digital platforms essential for LifeWay's business services. The Chief Information Officer ensures technological advancements align with the organization's mission to serve churches and individuals effectively. By driving digital transformation, Timothy Hill enables seamless access to LifeWay's resources and strengthens its distribution network. Hill's leadership ensures robust, scalable, and secure technological solutions.

Cynthia Phillips - Senior VP & Chief Marketing Officer
Cynthia Phillips, the Senior VP & Chief Marketing Officer at LifeWay, drives the brand strategy and market outreach for the organization's diverse portfolio of products and services. Phillips oversees all marketing campaigns, digital engagement, and customer relationship management initiatives, ensuring LifeWay's message resonates with churches and individuals. This leadership position involves analyzing market trends and developing innovative strategies to expand reach and deepen engagement. The Senior VP & Chief Marketing Officer ensures cohesive brand messaging across all publishing and distribution channels. By enhancing market presence, Cynthia Phillips directly supports LifeWay's mission to provide essential Christian resources. Phillips's expertise cultivates strong customer loyalty and drives revenue growth through effective promotion.

Scott Pryjmak - Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer
Scott Pryjmak, the Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer at LifeWay, leads the human resources strategy and talent management initiatives for the organization. Pryjmak oversees employee relations, organizational development, and workforce planning, ensuring LifeWay attracts, retains, and develops a high-performing team. This role is crucial for fostering a positive and productive work environment that supports the company's mission. The Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer ensures that people strategies align with LifeWay's values and business objectives, supporting its role in serving churches and individuals. By championing employee well-being and professional growth, Scott Pryjmak cultivates a strong organizational culture. Pryjmak's leadership enhances employee engagement and organizational effectiveness.
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