We are pleased to announce the promotion of Shannon Millsaps to the position of Chief Operating Officer.

For the last five years, Millsaps has worked with Thrive’s high-powered, energetic team of public, private and philanthropic partners, investors, and stakeholders to inspire responsible growth through conversation, connection, and collaboration across the tri-state greater Chattanooga region.

As Chief Operating Officer, Millsaps manages partners and processes for Thrive’s robust portfolio of new and emerging initiatives. She stewards plans for the strategic development of the organization, as well as the community, philanthropic, industry partnerships critical to organizational growth.

Before joining the Thrive team, Shannon spent 14 years in the broadcast television industry in Chattanooga, Tennessee and Asheville, North Carolina, ultimately serving as Assistant News Director for her hometown station, WTVC-NewsChannel 9. During her career, she worked closely with elected officials, community leaders and school systems to personalize the news, giving those most impacted a platform and a voice.

Shannon was named to Chattanooga’s 20 Under 40 list in 2020 and is a proud graduate of the Leadership Tennessee NEXT program; most recently, her leadership in development of the Thrive Regional Infrastructure Portal (TRIP) was recognized with Chattanooga Technology Council’s Early Innovator Award. She volunteers locally as a board member of the Catoosa County College and Career Academy and on the Chattanooga Nonprofit Alliance’s Advisory Committee.

When she's not in the office, you can find Shannon cheering on the Chattanooga Football Club, traveling, listening to live music and enjoying downtime with her wife, Claire, and their four-legged children Sully and Sophie.