Cox Media Names New SVP-Chief HR Officer

Cox Media Group has appointed Mary Ellen Marcilliat-Falkner its new senior vice president and chief human relations officer, beginning Sept. 11. She succeeds Karen Bennett, who was named Cox Communications’ new EVP and chief HR officer last month.

“Mary Ellen is a proven Cox leader, with over 20 years in the Automotive business, and she brings with her a strong understanding of our Cox values, most importantly that our employees are truly our most valuable resource,” said CMG President Kim Guthrie.

“I am thrilled to join Cox Media Group and to work alongside Kim

Guthrie and the respected CMG leadership team,” Marcilliat-Falkner. “As a long-time Cox employee, I have always admired our award-winning media brands and the unprecedented connection those businesses have with their communities and their customers.” She added, “I look forward to helping the company win with its people in this changing media landscape.”

At Cox Automotive and Manheim, Marcilliat-Falkner held roles of increasing responsibility in people strategies and finance. In her most recent role, she led the team of client-facing HR business partners and employment practices professionals who provide consultative support to all U.S.-based businesses and corporate functions.

Previously, she was director of finance operations, where she led the West region finance team to enhance focus on strategic partnerships and develop as leaders. Prior to joining finance in January 2014, Marcilliat-Falkner was senior director of HR operations and administration, where she launched Manheim’s Employee Service Center, oversaw the Global People Survey, and implemented a number of processes and tools to improve efficiency and operational effectiveness.

She also held positions in team member engagement, employment practices, and HR business partnerships, and brings unique perspectives from her time in corporate combined with 10 years in the field at Manheim Nevada.

Marcilliat-Falkner is on the board of directors for Women in Technology, an organization that serves as passionate advocates for women of all ages in Georgia’s science, technology, engineering, art and math community.

She is a graduate of the University of Nevada–Las Vegas with a bachelor’s in accounting and holds the Senior Professional in Human Resources  designation.