By 
August 31, 2017
Name: Byron K. Thomas
Title: Director of Human Resources
Family: Wife Natalie, daughters Nicole and Nena, son Nylan; parents Victor and Ruthie; brothers Leon and Daniel Thomas, sisters Emma Donaldson and Anna Stovall
Education: Shannon (Miss.) High School (was class president, SGA President and Salutatorian); Mississippi State University (BBA), Nova Southeastern University (MBA)
Background: Originally from Tupelo, came to Huntsville in a Management Trainee position with JCPenney in 1989. Joined City of Huntsville in 1997 as Human Resources Analyst. Also served as the Benefits & Safety Coordinator and Deputy Director of Human Resources before moving into current role in 2009
What You Didn’t Know: Serves as Deacon and a sign language interpreter at his church, Union Hill Primitive Baptist Church
Thomas On Leadership: My leadership principles have been derived from my life experiences and by my favorite verse from Proverbs – “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.”
Principle – Be an Example of a Good Work Ethic – My mom and dad always taught us that no matter what work you do, always do a great job. As a leader, it is important to model a good work ethic. I love the quote by Napoleon Hill – “If you cannot do great things, do small things in a great way.”
Principle – Value the Importance of a Team – As a leader, you must develop a team mentality. You must help your employees become a part of the team. It is important to recognize, to value and to thank your employees. I have served on great teams in my past careers. I am truly blessed to work and serve with a great City-wide team!
Principle – Do not Take the Opportunity to Serve Others for Granted – Theodore Roosevelt once said, “Far and away, the best prize that life has to offer is the chance to work hard at work worth doing.” As a leader, as a public servant, we all are blessed with the opportunity to impact and influence the lives of so many people. In turn, our service to others also impacts and influence us as well. Our lives are made better by our service to others!
‘My views on leadership’ is a regular CityBlog series highlighting City of Huntsville Department Heads and their leadership style.
