Cathy C. Lively

Global Strategy, Governance, Change Management, Inclusive Talent Building & Development, and Training

Murfreesboro, Tennessee, United States

About

As a strategic leader with a proven record of designing and executing impactful initiatives, I specialize in fostering inclusive, high-performing workplaces. My expertise lies in developing global strategies, building cross-functional partnerships, and driving organizational culture change. I am recognized for my data-driven human-centric decision-making, having created tools and programs that cultivate a strong talent base, belonging, and performance across all organizational levels. Key highlights from my career include implementing Hillenbrand's first formal global diversity strategy, resulting in a 400% increase in membership within Business Resource Group participation, and launching Nissan North America's Sponsorship Program, which led to promotions or expanded roles for 50% of participants. I also co-founded the Gay Straight Alliance at Nissan, significantly increasing the company's presence at Pride Festivals and influencing inclusive company policies recognized nationally. One of my standout accomplishments was collaborating with GSAN members to track ROI organically and formally, which resulted in expanded presence at Pride Festivals to over 30 major events across the US.

Experience

  • Elementary Educator at Murfreesboro City Schools
    Jul 2025 - Present · 1 yr 1 mo

  • HR Director at Hillenbrand
    Apr 2021 - Sep 2024 · 3 yrs 6 mos

  • Nissan Motor Corporation (9 yrs 7 mos)
    • Manager, Diversity & Inclusion
      Mar 2018 - Mar 2021 · 3 yrs 1 mo

    • Sr. Analyst Diversity & Inclusion
      Aug 2014 - Mar 2018 · 3 yrs 8 mos

      Program manager for the U.S. Business Synergy Teams Manage external partnerships focused on building pipeline for diverse talent Lead for diversity and inclusion surveys

    • President - Gay Straight Alliance at Nissan (GSAN) Business Synergy Team
      Nov 2012 - Aug 2014 · 1 yr 10 mos

      Co-Founded first LGBTQ+ Business Synergy Team at Nissan Established annual goals & objectives for the team Led team of employees for several Pride activations Worked to educate internal workforce on LGBTQ+ community

  • Nissan Contract Employee at Kelly Services
    Apr 2010 - Sep 2011 · 1 yr 6 mos

    Assisted in launch of new tool to all corporate Mobile Communication Device (MCD) users Drafted communication plan and corresponding documents Worked with cross-functional team on continuous development of program governance, policy and standard operating procedures Supported program maintenance with end user education, training and daily program operations Tracked and reported monthly KPIs, including non-compliance reporting Defined workflow and business processes within Visio

  • Operations Manager at Loan Alliance Networks
    Jun 2009 - Apr 2010 · 11 mos

    Provided support to President in managing daily operations Assisted in developing company goals and objectives Presented business plan and company vision to Venture Capitalist groups Drafted business plan, including budget and forecasting Worked with vendors negotiating terms Interviewed, hired and trained successful candidates for various company positions