Katie Lechner has joined Lincoln Electric System as the utility’s chief people officer and vice president of employee services. She began the role July 7.
Lechner brings extensive experience in human resources and organizational development, with a focus on cultivating positive, people-centered workplace cultures. She most recently served as chief development and experience officer at Tabitha Health.
Before joining Tabitha, Lechner held several leadership positions at HUMANex Ventures, a consulting firm specializing in talent-driven HR strategies. She earned a Bachelor of Science in journalism from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.
As LES’ first-ever chief people officer, Katie will lead the utility’s people strategy and oversee key employee-focused functions such as talent acquisition, performance management, training and development, compensation and benefits, labor relations and payroll. She will also guide initiatives that strengthen LES’ organizational culture and employee experience.
Lechner was born and raised in Lincoln and continues to call the capital city home. She and her husband, Jay, have two daughters, Carter and Charlie, and a Bernedoodle, Evie. Outside of work, you’ll likely find Lechner in the car shuttling kids to practice or on the sidelines of a basketball, soccer or softball game. When a free moment arises, she loves to golf, travel and garden.