Tractor Supply names new human resources EVP

Tractor Supply Company has named Melissa Kersey as its new executive vice president, chief human resources officer, effective July 20.

Kersey joins the Brentwood, Tenn.-based farm and ranch retailer after most recently serving as SVP and Chief People Officer at McDonald’s USA. She will report to Hal Lawton, Tractor Supply president and CEO, and will serve on the company’s executive committee.

In her new role, Kersey will have oversight for all human resources strategies for Tractor Supply including compensation and benefits, recruiting, talent management, leadership development, and training, along with the company’s diversity and inclusion initiatives.

“At Tractor Supply, investing in our people and promoting a culture centered around our mission and values is of the highest priority,” Lawton said. “Melissa brings to Tractor Supply deep expertise and experience in leadership development, diversity and inclusion, organizational effectiveness, and employee engagement.”

Before joining McDonald’s in 2017, Kersey held a number of executive-level roles with Walmart from 2008 to 2017, including SVP of global human resources transformation and people services, SVP and chief human resources officer for U.S. Stores, and SVP of learning and human resources strategy. 

“Her strong background at the intersection of strategy, talent and culture will help us to continue to drive growth and strengthen our business,” Lawton said.

Kersey replaces interim chief human resources officer Brian Evans, who has announced his plans to retire in the early fall of 2020.

Lawton said, “We sincerely thank Brian for his many contributions to Tractor Supply over the last 16 years, and we extend best wishes on his retirement.”

Tractor Supply operates more than 1,860 stores in 49 states along with Petsense stores in 26 states. The company has more than 30,000 associates.