NS Board appoints Earhart executive vice president and chief financial officer

Following what it called a "comprehensive search process," Norfolk Southern Corporation (NS) appointed Cynthia C. Earhart as executive vice president and chief financial officer.

Earhart most recently served as executive vice president and chief information officer. In connection with her appointment as CFO, Earhart will retain her information technology responsibilities.

“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.”

Earhart joined NS in 1985, in the accounting department. Since then, she has help positions of increasing responsibility in the accounting department, including assistant vice president, before transitioning to information technology. She was named vice president, information technology in 2001. In 2007, Earhart was named vice president human resources, and in 2013, she was appointed executive vice president administration. She assumed expanded responsibilities as executive vice president, administration and chief information officer in 2015.

Earhart succeeds Thomas E. Hurlbut, NS’ vice president and controller, who has served as interim chief financial officer since Aug. 1, 2017, following the retirement of Marta R. Stewart.