Yeager takes post as city’s new director of human resources

By JOE LOFARO
Special to the Press
MARTIN — Deborah Yeager has been in Martin for more than 40 years, but this past Monday marked her first day as the City of Martin’s new human resources director. 
“Debbie hit the ground running and she has been focused,” Mayor Randy Brundige said. “She picked up right where Celeste (Taylor) left off.”
Yeager replaces Taylor, who has served the city in different capacities for more than 25 years. Taylor recently accepted a job with the Tennessee Municipal League.
Yeager served as the human resources coordinator at the Northwest Tennessee Economic Development Council before going to work for the City of Martin.
“I know I will be involved in the hiring for all departments and then serve on several committees,” Yeager said. “Other than that, it is too early. I will be ready to go, whatever the task.”
Yeager spent 13 years, from 1995 through 2008, working as the director of human resources for Community Health Systems (Volunteer Community Hospital in Martin and Jackson Regional Hospital in Jackson). During this stint she also worked for Methodist Healthcare Systems.
Before working for Community Health Systems, Yeager was a human resource specialist for Northwest Counseling Center.
She earned a bachelor’s of science degree in business administration (management) from UT Martin in 1992.
Yeager lives in Martin with her 5-year-old daughter, Raven.
“Debbie has jumped right in and has been very enthusiastic,” city recorder Chris Mathis said.
The City of Martin also hired Kelly Wilson as a city clerk. Wilson will replace Brenda Harvey who plans to retire June 30 after 27 years.
Wilson has a bachelor’s degree in business from Bethel University in McKenzie.

Published in The WCP 4.25.13