Leadership Overview
LifeWay has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, information technology, operations, marketing, finance, and human resources.
Driven by a mission to serve churches and their communities, LifeWay provides essential publishing and distribution services, alongside vital church business support, impacting faith-based organizations across the nation.
Driven by a mission to serve churches and their communities, LifeWay provides essential publishing and distribution services, alongside vital church business support, impacting faith-based organizations across the nation.
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 as the publishing and distribution division of the Southern Baptist Convention, ensuring alignment with its core purpose of serving churches. This leadership role involves overseeing all departments, driving growth initiatives, and maintaining the integrity of LifeWay's business services. Blackwell's focus remains on enhancing the organization's impact and sustainability within the faith-based sector. The President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that all business activities support the broader objectives of the Southern Baptist Convention, fostering innovation in publishing and distribution to meet evolving church needs. Ryan Blackwell champions a culture of service and excellence throughout the enterprise.
Cossy Pachares - Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer
Cossy Pachares, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at LifeWay, manages the company's financial health, including budgeting, forecasting, and fiscal planning. Pachares oversees all financial operations, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and maintaining strong financial controls. This position is fundamental to LifeWay's sustainability and its ability to provide essential services to churches. The Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer guides investment strategies and manages financial risk, supporting the organization's long-term growth objectives. Cossy Pachares's financial acumen is critical for the effective allocation of resources and for upholding LifeWay's commitment to fiscal responsibility as part of the Southern Baptist Convention.
Joseph Walker - Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer
Joseph Walker, the Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer at LifeWay, directs the day-to-day operational activities and ensures the efficient functioning of all business units. Walker's responsibilities encompass managing supply chains, optimizing distribution networks, and overseeing the execution of business services for churches. This critical role ensures that LifeWay's publishing and distribution efforts meet high standards of quality and timeliness. The Executive VP & Chief Operating Officer drives operational excellence, implementing strategies to enhance productivity and reduce costs across the organization. Joseph Walker's leadership is vital for maintaining the smooth delivery of products and services, supporting the broader mission of LifeWay and its connection to the Southern Baptist Convention.
Timothy Hill - Chief Information Officer
Timothy Hill, the Chief Information Officer at LifeWay, architects and manages the company's technology infrastructure and digital strategy. Hill oversees all aspects of information systems, ensuring robust security, efficient data management, and seamless integration across publishing and distribution platforms. This role is critical for supporting LifeWay's mission of providing church business services and resources through modern technological solutions. Hill drives innovation in IT, enabling enhanced customer experiences and operational efficiencies. The Chief Information Officer ensures that technology investments directly support the organization's strategic goals and its role within the Southern Baptist Convention. Timothy Hill's leadership ensures LifeWay remains at the forefront of technological adoption within its sector, facilitating effective communication and resource delivery.
Cynthia Phillips - Senior VP & Chief Marketing Officer
Cynthia Phillips, the Senior VP & Chief Marketing Officer at LifeWay, leads all marketing, branding, and customer engagement initiatives. Phillips develops and executes comprehensive strategies to promote LifeWay's publishing offerings and church business services, reaching a broad audience of churches and individuals. This role is essential for driving market penetration and reinforcing LifeWay's position as a leading provider within the faith-based sector. The Senior VP & Chief Marketing Officer oversees advertising, digital marketing, and public relations efforts, ensuring consistent brand messaging. Cynthia Phillips's expertise is crucial for expanding LifeWay's reach and impact, aligning marketing efforts with the organization's mission and its relationship with the Southern Baptist Convention.
Selma Wilson - Vice President & Chief People Officer
Selma Wilson, the Vice President & Chief People Officer at LifeWay, directs human resources strategy and oversees all aspects of employee relations, talent management, and organizational development. Wilson is responsible for fostering a positive and productive work environment that aligns with LifeWay's mission and values. This role is crucial for attracting, retaining, and developing the talent necessary to support the organization's publishing and distribution operations. The Vice President & Chief People Officer ensures that HR policies and practices support employee well-being and professional growth. Selma Wilson's leadership in people operations is vital for the continued success and mission fulfillment of LifeWay within the Southern Baptist Convention.
Scott Pryjmak - Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer
Scott Pryjmak, the Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer at LifeWay, leads the comprehensive human resources functions, focusing on talent acquisition, employee engagement, and organizational culture. Pryjmak develops and implements strategies to support LifeWay's workforce, ensuring alignment with the company's mission as a provider of church business services and publishing. This role is essential for cultivating a high-performing team and fostering an environment that reflects LifeWay's core values. The Senior Vice President and Chief People Officer oversees compensation, benefits, and professional development programs. Scott Pryjmak's strategic approach to people management is key to LifeWay's operational effectiveness and its service to the Southern Baptist Convention.
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Frequently Asked Questions Regarding LifeWay Top Executives and Leadership Team
