What does it take to build an organization where people thrive, culture matters, and operational excellence follows?

Join Leaders in the Arena for a conversation with Joey Ballard, Chief People & Safety Officer at Covenant Logistics, where she leads enterprise-wide initiatives in safety, human resources, recruiting, talent development, and employee retention. With more than 27 years of leadership experience, Joey has helped build a culture where servant leadership, operational excellence, and genuine care for people reinforce one another. From developing future leaders and strengthening organizational culture to advancing safety and employee engagement, her work demonstrates that sustainable organizational success begins by investing in people.

Beyond the workplace, Joey's commitment to mentoring women leaders and serving organizations such as Fellowship of Christian Athletes reflects a leadership philosophy grounded in stewardship, service, and lasting impact. Join us as we explore how leaders can build organizations where people are known, valued, and equipped to flourish while pursuing excellence with humility, integrity, and purpose.

Discussion Points

1. Building a People-First Culture

• Throughout your career in people leadership and safety, what have you learned about the connection between servant leadership and organizational excellence?
• How do you intentionally create a culture where people feel valued—not simply for what they produce, but for who they are?
• What practical leadership habits have the greatest influence on building trust and strengthening organizational culture?

2. Developing People and Building Leaders

• You've spent much of your career recruiting, developing, and retaining great people. What distinguishes organizations that truly invest in people from those that simply manage talent?
• As Executive Sponsor of the Women of Covenant and a mentor to many emerging leaders, what have you learned about helping others discover their potential and flourish?
• How can leaders create environments where people continue to grow, contribute, and lead with confidence?

3. Leadership as Calling and Stewardship

• Your leadership extends beyond the workplace into healthcare, education, church, and community service. How has serving in these different arenas shaped your understanding of leadership as a calling rather than simply a career?
• Covenant Logistics often speaks about faith, service, and people as foundational values. How have those principles influenced your leadership philosophy?
• What advice would you offer leaders who want to build organizations known not only for operational excellence, but also for humility, integrity, stewardship, and genuine care for others?