JACKSON, Miss. (May 27, 2025) –Neel-Schaffer is proud to announce the promotion of six employees to new officer roles across the firm, recognizing their meaningful contributions and the leadership they continue to bring to our teams, clients, and communities.
“At Neel-Schaffer, our strength has always been our people,” said Robert Walker, PE, Chief Operating Officer. “These appointments recognize individuals who lead with integrity, elevate those around them, and bring our values of Care, Service, and Excellence to life. I look forward to the contributions they’ll continue to make as we shape the future of our firm together.”
Senior Vice Presidents
Anna Marie Chapman – Birmingham, AL
Anna Marie joined Neel-Schaffer in 2021 and now serves as Senior Vice President of Human Resources, overseeing HR efforts across the firm and its subsidiaries. She brings over 30 years of experience in HR strategy, talent development, and organizational leadership. Her work has supported firmwide growth through initiatives like college and intern recruiting, employee development, and acquisition integration, and she played a key role in establishing Neel-Schaffer’s Culture Team, which champions our values of Care, Service, and Excellence.
Ed Everitt, JD, PE – Baton Rouge, LA
Ed is Senior Vice President and General Counsel for Neel-Schaffer, overseeing legal, safety, and risk management. A civil engineer turned attorney, Ed joined the firm in 2018 and brings nearly two decades of experience in the engineering and construction industry. He plays a critical role in risk mitigation and contract strategy across the firm’s operations. He also serves as a trustee for the ACEC Business Insurance Trust, partnering with brokers and insurers to create insurance programs designed for ACEC member firms. With a background in both engineering and construction law, he brings a valuable perspective that supports operations and helps shape business strategy across the organization.
Kelly Tam, PCM, CDMP – Columbia, SC
Kelly joined Neel-Schaffer in 2019 and serves as Senior Vice President, Marketing. She leads the firm’s marketing and communications strategy, overseeing branding, proposals, public involvement, and internal and external communications for Neel-Schaffer and its subsidiaries. She also shapes the firm’s digital strategy and online presence. With more than 20 years of A/E/C industry experience, Kelly is a certified professional in both marketing and digital media. She brings a strategic, creative approach to elevating the firm’s visibility, modernizing how we connect with clients, communities, and employees. Her leadership has strengthened brand consistency and improved client engagement across our nine-state footprint.
Vice Presidents
Brian Adams, PE, SE, CBI – Atlanta, GA
Brian joined Neel-Schaffer in 2023 and now serves as Bridge Practice Lead, overseeing bridge design teams across the company and helping grow structural services throughout our nine-state footprint. With over 20 years of experience in bridge design, project delivery, and team leadership, Brian has a strong track record of winning major projects in competitive markets. He brings an innovative mindset and a readiness to explore new approaches that help clients solve complex infrastructure challenges. Brian is a Registered Professional Structural Engineer in Georgia and Utah, holds PE licenses in 13 additional states and Puerto Rico and is an FHWA-NHI Certified Bridge Inspector.
Chris Knotts, PE, BC.WRE – Baton Rouge, LA
Chris leads business development for Louisiana and joined Neel-Schaffer in 2023 after a distinguished 26-year career in public service with the Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority and the Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development. With over 40 years of experience, he manages relationships with existing and prospective clients across the state and represents Neel-Schaffer through active involvement in professional organizations. In 2025, Chris was honored with the Charles M. Kerr Public Relations Award from the Louisiana Engineering Society for his testimony before legislative committees on matters impacting engineering licensure and public safety. A trusted mentor, he draws on his career experience to support and guide the next generation of industry professionals. Chris is known for his strategic insight, strong industry advocacy, and commitment to industry ethics.
Whitney Summers – Chattanooga, TN
Whitney joined Neel-Schaffer in 2019 after more than a decade with TDOT. She began as a Municipal Services Manager and now serves as a Business Development Manager for the Tennessee operations, as well as assisting with business development efforts in other areas of the East Region, where she leads strategic pursuits and supports growth across multiple disciplines. She also serves on the firm’s Strategic Planning Committee and as liaison to our 130+ member Young Professionals Group. Whitney holds leadership roles outside the firm with ACEC Tennessee, Bryan College, ASHE, and Preserve Chattanooga. Her ability to connect people and ideas helps drive progress both within Neel-Schaffer and in the communities we serve.
