NS Appoints Hatfield, Smith to VP Roles

Norfolk Southern (NS) named John Hatfield Vice President Corporate Communications and promoted Kathleen Smith to Vice President Business Development and Real Estate, succeeding Robert Martínez, who retires Dec. 1.

Hatfield has more than 30 years of public and community relations experience, and served most recently as Vice President of Communications and Public Affairs for energy provider Arizona Public Service. Effective Jan. 1, he will assume his new role at NS, which includes overseeing the Norfolk Southern Foundation.

Smith joined NS in 1995 as a management trainee, and has held roles of increasing responsibility in the railroad’s Marketing Division, where she focused on research, market planning and analysis. Prior to serving as Group Vice President Chemicals in the Industrial Products Group, she was Group Vice President Automotive in the Intermodal/Automotive Group.

In announcing the moves, NS Chairman, President and CEO James A. Squires said:

• “John is a seasoned executive and experienced communication professional. As we move through a time of tremendous change for our company, it’s essential for us to engage effectively with our stakeholders. We are pleased to add John to our team.” 
• “Kathleen has proven to be a smart and capable leader, helping her teams provide quality customer service and achieve company goals for growth. In her new role, Smith will help lead our ongoing transformation to become a more agile and resilient company.”
• “During more than 23 years with Norfolk Southern, Rob Martínez played an integral role in some of the company’s largest and most strategic business initiatives. Rob is recognized across the industry for his integrity and diplomacy. We are a stronger and more competitive railroad through his efforts, and he will be missed.”