Lynda (Childress) Hawks

Have you met our new President & CEO?

In a world of stuffy, buttoned-up CEOs, Lynda Childress is a breath of fresh air. She has a big genuine smile that instantly puts people at ease and diffuses stereotypes. "After much prayer and knowing this was exactly what I was supposed to do, I took on this role and I am knocking it out," she said.

Lynda started as an accountant with Osborne Building Corp. in 1990. She stayed with the company when former mayor Bob Corker purchased it. Today, Lynda is responsible for the firm's 18 employees and approx. 3 million sq. ft. of real estate.

"I am motivated by responsibility and trust, more than money." "I always worked two or three jobs, as a single mom raising my 2 children." She graduated from Red Bank High School at age 16 and earned a two-year degree from McKenzie College while working full time.

Those working closest with Lynda describe her as a genuine person who works very hard, is truly interested in tenants and employees, and possesses a ferocious work ethic that has propelled Lynda to the top of Chattanooga's largest commercial real estate company. As owner Henry Luken says, "I feel fortunate to have Lynda leading our team."

Luken Holdings, Inc. – President/CEO

June, 2009 promoted to current position of President and Chief Executive Officer. Responsible for and in charge of all day-to-day operations for the real estate holdings of Henry Luken and various other Property Owners. Other duties include management of two family trusts and overseeing the financial operations of all other Luken entities.

Luken Holdings, Inc. - CFO/Corporation Secretary

2008 – promoted to Chief Financial Officer of Company
- Duties included overseeing Accounting Department, Human Resources, Insurance
2005 promoted to Corporate Secretary of Company
2002 promoted to Controller
April, 1999 to June, 2009 responsible for all financial aspects of the Company

Osborne Building Corporation – Accounting

March, 1990 – January, 1995 responsible for accounts payable, payroll, 941 payroll taxes, work orders, purchase orders, etc.

Community Service:

Rotary Club
First Things First Board of Directors
First Things First Committee Chair for Annual Dinner & Fundraiser
Junior Achievement Board of Directors
Young Women's Leadership Academy Foundation Board of Directors
Public Education Foundation Roundtable
Actively involved in Head Start Reading Rally in Chattanooga & Soddy Daisy, TN
Executive Women International (EWI) – 2009-2010 President
February, 2009 recognized by Chattanooga Women's Leadership Institute as a "Leader in Our Midst"
Contact Ministry of Chattanooga Advisory Board
Circle of Red Society/Go Red for Women