Wilmington-based Thomas Construction Group hired Katie Seidel as its director of people and culture, according to a news release.

She will lead the company's human resources team "in all people-focused areas from recruiting and benefits to performance management and career pathing," according to a news release.

Seidel joins Thomas with 17 years of experience as a human resource professional and a track record of contributing to the growth and success of numerous organizations, the release stated. She has worked in various industries including construction, property management and IT services, focusing on areas such as employee relations, talent management benefits administration and professional development.

"When we met Katie, it clicked right away and we're excited to have her on board," said Chris Reid, president of Thomas Construction, in the release. “She brings tremendous experience to us as our director of people and culture. At Thomas, our culture has always been at the core of everything we do, and she is the perfect steward to move us toward the future. We know that attracting and retaining top talent is crucial for our future success. With Katie leading this effort, we're confident about the path ahead."

Originally from Smith Mountain Lake, Virginia, Seidel graduated from Mary Baldwin College with a bachelor's degree in communications.

“After working for a Fortune 500 company for 13 years, the opportunity to move to the coast 10 years ago and significantly develop my career at a local company was extremely attractive to me," Seidel said in the release. “I now know that moving to Wilmington was one of the best decisions we could have made for our family, and I am excited to continue growing as an HR business partner with Thomas Construction Group.”