NS appoints Allen Sutherland EVP, chief legal officer

Norfolk Southern Corp. has named Vanessa Allen Sutherland executive vice president and chief legal officer effective April 1.

Allen Sutherland joined NS in 2018 as VP of law. Last year, she was promoted to senior VP of government relations and chief legal officer.

During her tenure, she has helped lead a review of the company's safety program, managed government relations initiatives, introduced automation at multiple levels within the law team, and collaborated with industry peers on matters related to short lines, NS officials said in a press release.

"Vanessa is an invaluable contributor to NS, with important responsibilities across a number of areas critical to our company's success," said NS Chairman President and Chief Executive Officer James Squires. "Most recently, Vanessa has been playing an integral role in helping NS navigate the economic, political and regulatory environment."