NYTCo. names outsider McCarty as new HR chief

Reader's Digest Association executive Todd McCarty (left) has been appointed senior vice president, human resources -- the company's top personnel job, effective Dec. 31, the company announced today. McCarty, 43, will be responsible for all human resources functions, including compensation and benefits, diversity programs, performance management, staff development and succession planning, the NYTCo.'s statement says. He will report to CEO Janet Robinson.

Most frustrating: the company doesn't say who McCarty is succeeding. The New York Times reported the change, but also didn't disclose his predecessor. Currently, Desiree Dancy holds the title of chief diversity officer and vice president, corporate human resources. But that's not the same position McCarty is assuming.

Summarizing his background, the statement says McCarty has been senior vice president, global human resources for The Reader's Digest Association, which he joined in 2008. From 2005 to 2008 McCarty was senior vice president, human resources with drug store chain Rite Aid Corp. From 2000 to 2005 he served as senior vice president, North American human resources for Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide and from 1992 to 2000 he held various positions with Frito-Lay Co., a division of PepsiCo. McCarty started his career with Quaker Oats in 1989. He is also currently a director of department store chain Bon-Ton Stores.

Please post your replies in the comments section, below. To e-mail confidentially, write jimhopkins[at]gmail[dot-com]; see Tipsters Anonymous Policy in the green rail, upper right.