Brian Hercules, a 29-year executive with Atmos Energy, was hired today (Tuesday, Sept. 22) as president and CEO of the United Way of Rutherford and Cannon Counties.

Hercules, who most recently served as sales manager for a three-state region for Atmos, was a member of the United Way board of directors. He was chairman of last year’s record-setting fundraising campaign, which garnered more than $2.7 million in pledges.

The organization’s board unanimously approved the recommendation by the Search Committee, which was formed in August after the resignation of Rachel Holder, who left United Way to spend more time with her newborn son.

“Brian has extensive experience in working with United Way chapters and their agencies, and I am confident he will do a fantastic job,” said Stephanie Brackman, chairman of the Search Committee and executive vice president of the Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce.

Hercules has long been active with United Way. He was a long-standing board member in Columbus, Ga., a market with a similar size to Rutherford and Cannon counties that raised $6 million in pledges.

               “Naming Brian Hercules as our new CEO is one of the most exciting things to happen to our United Way chapter in some time,” said Chuck Lewis, United Way board chairman and city president of First Bank.

“Brian has so much passion and commitment for the mission of United Way that he’ll energize the board, staff and community a great deal,” Lewis said.  “Brian’s work ethic, networking, and team building skills will be a winning combination for United Way and the communities we serve.”

Hercules is a board member of the Blue Raider Athletics Association, which honored him with its Liz Rhea Member of the Year Award. He is also a member of Middle Tennessee State University’s Board of Trustees.

He lives in Murfreesboro with his wife, Pat.

The United Way and its 45 partner agencies and programs are working to advance the common good in Rutherford and Cannon counties by focusing on the building blocks for a meaningful life: Education, Income and Health.