The Norfolk Southern Corporation (NS) Board of Directors has appointed Cynthia C. Earhart executive vice president and chief financial officer, effective August 15, 2017. She succeeds Vice President and Controller Thomas E. Hurlbut, who has served as interim chief financial officer since August 1, 2017, following Marta R. Stewart’s retirement.
Earhart, a certified public accountant, joined NS in 1985 and held positions of increasing responsibility in the accounting department before transitioning to information technology. She was named vice president information technology in 2001, vice president human resources in 2007, and executive vice present administration in 2013.
In 2015, Earhart assumed expanded responsibilities as executive vice president administration and chief information officer. In connection with her appointment as CFO, Earhart will retain her information technology responsibilities.
Prior to joining NS, she was an accountant at Ernst & Young’s predecessor CPA firm Ernst and Whinney. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from the University of Missouri and has completed the Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School.
“After an extensive review of internal and external candidates, the Board is pleased to announce Cindy’s appointment as CFO,” said James A. Squires, NS chairman, president and CEO. “Cindy has a strong financial background, a comprehensive understanding of NS’ operations, and a proven track record as a senior executive who challenges thinking and encourages innovation.”
“As we continue to leverage technology enhancements to drive further improvements in customer service and productivity, we are confident that having Cindy in this key position will accelerate our progress. We welcome Cindy to her new role and look forward to benefiting from her expertise as we build on our success in reducing costs, driving profitability, and accelerating growth,” added Squires.