Art Smith

Brentwood Home Page news reports
The Middle Tennessee Society for Human Resource Management—a not-for-profit association with nearly 1,200 human resources professionals practicing in business, education and government—announced that Art Smith, managing principal at Brentwood-based AG Smith & Associates, LLC, will be its new executive director.

Smith was unanimously selected by the MT-SHRM board of directors from a wide field of outstanding candidates following an extensive one-year search. He will be the first executive director in MT-SHRM's 45 year history.

“Art brings an appreciation and strong commitment to MT-SHRM's mission of  ‘Supporting, Educating and Connecting’,” said MT-SHRM President Mel Waymaster. “His inclusive approach to volunteer leadership is perfect for MT-SHRM at this time of growth.”

Incoming MT-SHRM president Dennis Stull, director of human resources at Ghertner & Company added, “I’m very pleased that the thoughtful work of the search committee resulted in finding Art."

According to Stull, Smith was chosen for his record of outstanding business management, marketing skills, and outreach acumen. “Another important factor was his enthusiasm for the professional development of our members, which he championed during his many years of service to MT-SHRM in various board roles, including serving as chapter president in 2010.”

“Our chapter’s growth has been phenomenal and Art’s passion for the HR profession, his extensive experience, creativity, and collaborative leadership style, are critical for this time of growth at MT-SHRM,” Barb Stewart, president-elect commented.

Smith said he looks forward to his new role.

“I am honored and look forward to working with the board, volunteer leadership and all MT-SHRM members. “Membership has more than doubled in size during the past five years because so many people are dedicated to seeing the association grow and add value to members,” he added.

Before entering private practice in 2003, Smith was senior vice president and director of HR strategy and practice for a Fortune 500 financial institution. Prior to that, he was vice president of HR and finance for a national insurance and securities brokerage firm. Previously, he served in chief executive roles in both HR and finance in union and non-union environments.

Chartered in 1967, MT-SHRM has been recognized consistently by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) as a Superior Merit Award Chapter for excellence in operations and service to its members.