Longtime BBB chief retires

The longtime president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau of Southwest Missouri has retired.

Judy Mills, who worked with the local BBB for more than 26 years and served the last decade as its top executive, exited her post Dec. 31, said Rex Hansen, a member of the organization’s board of directors. Mills told the board she plans to spend more time with family.

Kim McAdoo, business relations specialist for the southwest Missouri chapter, was chosen to serve as interim CEO while the board conducts a nationwide search for Mills’ successor. Hansen said he and two other board members were identified to lead the search committee.

The committee would work with the Council of Better Business Bureaus - the network hub for regional chapters - to identify candidates. Hansen estimated the process would take about 90 days. Declining to disclose the salary the winning candidate would receive, Hansen said the board is putting together a competitive package.

“The job is a pretty big one, so naturally it’s going to have a compensation plan that will be commensurate with the duties that will be part of the job,” said Hansen, who works as vice president and general manger for E. W. Scripps Co.’s local operations.

During Mills’ time as president and CEO, the local BBB added additional member services, including chances to connect with consumers and luncheons with business professionals. The organization now has over 1,000 members.

Hansen said Mills also was instrumental in launching the local nonprofit’s Torch Awards, which recognize companies for business ethics and customers service.

Mills succeeded 35-year President and CEO Jim Craig, who died in October 2012 at age 89.