Sean Lumsden, Senior Human Resources Manager for Headquarters at RYAM, brings a career shaped by service, resilience, and respect for hard work. Raised in Roanoke, Virginia, he began working at a young age in farm and labor roles—experiences that still define his leadership approach. He has been married to his wife, Dana, since 1998, and together they share a daughter, Alisa, married to Conner Bronson, a granddaughter, Sophie (born last September), and an old cat affectionately known as Miss Kitty.
At age 18, Sean enlisted in the U.S. Army as an airborne infantryman and was selected for a highly competitive Long-Range Surveillance unit. Stationed in Germany, he conducted demanding reconnaissance missions during the Kosovo campaigns, earned multiple military honors, and returned home as a Sergeant.
After active duty, Sean resumed his career at UPS, quickly advancing into leadership roles in operations. Simultaneously, he served as a Staff Sergeant in the Army Reserves, teaching ROTC cadets, all while raising a young family and attended college—often balancing days, nights, and weekends. During this period, he earned two associate degrees and built a strong foundation in operations and leadership.
Following the loss of his father, Sean reassessed his path. He and Dana opened a small business while he worked nights at a juvenile detention center and attended college full time, earning his first bachelor’s degree. A house fire soon after destroyed nearly everything they owned, forcing the family to rebuild with resolve and perspective.
Sean’s HR career took shape at ITT Night Vision, where he transitioned from lean six sigma (or continuous improvement) into human resources. He led major cost-saving initiatives, supported large-scale organizational changes, and expanded his expertise across labor relations, compliance, and workforce strategy into complex manufacturing environments.
He later held senior HR roles at Corning Inc. and Triumph Group, overseeing multi-site operations across the U.S. and internationally. During this time, Sean earned a second bachelor’s degree, an MBA, and attended law school while working full time, ultimately earning his law degree and passing the Florida Bar.
Most recently, Sean led HR operations across North America for a global manufacturing organization, partnering closely with senior executive leadership and directly managed union relations, regulatory agencies, and enterprise-wide change. Outside of work, he enjoys scuba diving and time with family.
Today, Sean supports RYAM’s HQ operations in HR. With new leadership and strong momentum ahead, he’s energized by what’s next—and grateful to be closer to his daughter and new granddaughter.
