JACKSON, Miss. (Sept. 15, 2026) – True North Emergency Management, a Neel-Schaffer company, has named Rodney Byrd as Operations Director. Rodney brings more than 25 years of senior management experience, including extensive experience in disaster response and recovery.
In his new role, Rodney will oversee operations for True North’s active recovery projects, working alongside project managers to keep projects moving and teams supported in the field. He will also lead mobilization and field deployment efforts, helping ensure True North has the people and resources ready to respond when disasters strike.
“Rodney brings a rare combination of field experience, operational knowledge, and the ability to lead people through incredibly complex recovery efforts,” said Victoria Kelley, Senior Vice President and Director of Emergency Management. “I don’t think I’ve met anyone in the debris industry with the combination of talent, experience, and management ability that Rodney brings to the table. I’ve personally learned from him over the years, and I have tremendous confidence in his leadership. I’m excited to see the impact he’ll make in this new role and what he’ll help us accomplish as an organization.”
Rodney has managed the removal of millions of cubic yards of storm-related debris and led teams responsible for right-of-way debris removal, private property debris removal, demolition, hazardous trees, electronic waste, and other complex recovery operations. He also brings a strong understanding of FEMA eligibility requirements, debris regulations, documentation, and federal funding programs. That experience is especially important in the field, where decisions made during recovery can directly affect a client’s eligibility for reimbursement.
He has led large field teams and managed multiple recovery efforts at the same time. In 2021, Rodney managed five debris monitoring contracts simultaneously across Louisiana. He has also worked on recovery efforts following Hurricanes Harvey, Florence, Laura, Zeta, Ida, Ian, Idalia, Beryl, Francine, Milton, and Helene.
His recent work has included supporting state agencies during major disaster response and recovery efforts. Following Hurricane Helene, he worked with agencies including the Georgia Department of Transportation, Tennessee Emergency Management Agency, and Tennessee Department of Transportation. He also supported TDOT and the Mississippi Department of Transportation following Severe Winter Storm Fern in 2026.
Rodney’s appointment strengthens True North’s operational leadership as the firm continues to support communities and agencies before, during, and after disasters. As Operations Director, he will oversee active recovery efforts, support project teams, and help ensure True North has the people and resources ready to mobilize quickly when disaster strikes.
