Parker's Adds Two More Execs to Team
SAVANNAH, Ga. -- Parker's is adding to its leadership team with two new positions that will aid the company as it expands its convenience store footprint.
Joining the locally-based retailer are Stephen Hines as chief technology officer and Louise D. "Lou" Phelps as director of corporate communications.
In his new position, Hines will be responsible for overseeing and managing all current technologies for Parker's. He will ensure that all technology-related decisions are aligned with the company's business goals, build the internal information technology (IT) department to support the company's growth, and maintain all processes, procedures and documentation for internal IT systems.
Most recently, Hines was owner of Innovative Sync, a managed service provider to small and medium-sized companies in Savannah. While there, he supported all aspects of the Parker's technology infrastructure as a vendor.
"We are excited to welcome Stephen to the Parker's family," said Greg Parker, president and CEO. "He brings a tremendous wealth of IT knowledge and experience to our company."
Hines was born and raised in Atlanta. He currently resides in Tybee Island, Ga.
In her new corporate communications role, Phelps will oversee internal and external communications; the company's brand and image; charitable giving; Parker's Fueling the Community program of donations to both public and private schools in the 13 counties of the company's operations; and work with the company's strategic partners on special events.
"As Parker's continues its rapid growth pattern and prepares for significant future expansion, it was time to build a professional, internal communications department. Lou was the right fit for our company at this important juncture," Parker said.
Phelps owns Coastal Empire News, headquartered in Savannah, but has removed herself from all news operations. She is also the owner of media consultant firm, Phelps, Cutler & Associates.
"I've known Lou a long time, and respected both her writing ability and knowledge of our region. She brings a blend of deep relationships with our media partners and civic, business and Chamber leadership, as well as 24 years of national business experience with both publicly traded and privately held media companies," Parker added. "She has successfully worked with companies as they have gone through transitions, mergers, acquisitions and growth, and will be a valuable member of our outstanding management team."
Phelps attended Purdue University and lives in Savannah, Ga.
Parker's currently operates 34 convenience stores in 13 counties throughout southeast Georgia and South Carolina, and sells Parker's proprietary brand gasoline.