CHICAGO – In a ceremony recognizing the pinnacle of ethical business leadership, Marvin R. Ellison, Chairman, president, and CEO of Lowe’s, was awarded the Ethical Leader of the Year Award at the 2024 SHRM Annual Conference & Expo.
The event, which drew business leaders from across the globe, took place in Chicago.
The award, a collaborative effort between the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the William G. McGowan Charitable Fund, underscores a commitment to nurturing ethical leadership within major business frameworks.
“It’s an honor to receive this award and represent the 300,000 associates who embody Lowe’s values,” Ellison said, emphasizing the importance of integrity and professionalism in achieving business success.
Ellison’s commendation was part of a broader initiative by the McGowan Fund to promote its “Principles of Ethical Leadership,” which has been a focal point of its philanthropy and educational endeavors for over fourteen years. Brian Peckrill, Executive Director of the McGowan Fund, praised Ellison’s contributions to the community and his leadership in steering Lowe’s towards continuous financial growth while focusing on empowering minority youth and supporting employee welfare.
Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., SHRM-SCP, President and CEO of SHRM, also celebrated the event.
“Cultivating a robust organizational culture hinges on clearly defining, comprehending, and practicing ethics in the workplace,” Taylor said, applauding Ellison’s ability to personify these values.
Ellison’s career, marked by significant roles including his former position as Chairman and CEO of J.C. Penney Co., has been distinguished by his strategic leadership and commitment to ethical practices, which have resonated across his professional engagements and beyond.
Lowe’s, a FORTUNE 50 company, has thrived under Ellison’s guidance, benefiting from his extensive experience in retail leadership and operational management. Ellison’s recognition places him alongside other notable recipients such as Charles Lowrey of Prudential Financial and Ed Bastian of Delta Air Lines, reinforcing the importance of ethical leadership in guiding successful business enterprises.
This award not only highlights individual achievement but also reflects the ongoing efforts of institutions like SHRM and the McGowan Charitable Fund to advance leadership that harmoniously integrates business success with an unwavering commitment to ethical practices and community engagement.