Deborah Melson, SHRMCP
Deborah Melson, SHRM-CP (Retired), is a retired corporate human resources and military leader with more than three decades of experience in human resources, accounting, and organizational leadership. She retired from both corporate HR and the United States Navy, where she built a reputation for integrity-driven leadership, mentorship, and operational excellence. Deborah earned her Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from the University of North Florida, which supported her analytical and strategic approach to both financial and human resources management throughout her career. She is currently retired but continues to serve her community as the financial administrator and treasurer for her local Presbyterian church in a semi–part-time capacity.
Deborah proudly served 31 years in the United States Navy, rising from the enlisted ranks to become a commissioned officer and retiring as a Lieutenant Commander (O-4). She began her military career in 1977 at age 19, when women were still pioneers in expanding opportunities within the armed forces, an achievement she considers one of her greatest personal and professional honors. In her civilian career, she later served as Human Resources Director for a container and maritime services company, overseeing HR and payroll operations across multiple states while supporting both union and non-union workforces. She also holds professional certifications including SHRM-CP and formerly held the PHR certification, demonstrating her commitment to professional standards and continuous development.
Throughout her career and retirement, Deborah has been known for her coaching leadership style, focusing on developing others rather than micromanaging. She believes in delegating responsibility, sharing knowledge, and creating opportunities for people to succeed while upholding her core values of integrity, honesty, accountability, and teamwork. In addition to her professional and military service, Deborah is deeply committed to volunteerism and strongly supports veteran organizations and the Presbyterian Church. In retirement, she continues to live out her lifelong commitment to service, leadership, and giving back to her community.
• PHR
• SHRM-CP
• University of North Florida - BBA
• Supporter of veterans' organizations
• Presbytery
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the guidance and support of my mentors, the opportunities I have been given throughout my career, and the unwavering encouragement of my husband. Their belief in me, combined with the chances I was given to grow professionally and personally, helped shape my leadership philosophy, work ethic, and commitment to excellence. I have been fortunate to learn from others, take on new challenges, and build a career grounded in integrity, service, and continuous improvement.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have ever received is to always be honest and accountable for my actions. If I make a mistake, I take ownership of it and focus on learning and growing from the experience. This principle has guided my professional and personal development, helping me build trust, maintain integrity, and continuously improve my performance and leadership approach throughout my career.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering my industry is to work hard, pursue your education, and remain persistent in the face of challenges. Build strong professional relationships, seek out mentors, and never stop learning and growing. Confidence, preparation, and perseverance will help open doors, and maintaining integrity and professionalism will help sustain long-term success and respect in your career.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges in my field right now are navigating changing laws and regulations while also addressing workforce staffing needs. Organizations must stay current with evolving compliance requirements while ensuring they attract, develop, and retain the right talent for the right roles. At the same time, these challenges also present opportunities to strengthen workforce planning, invest in employee development, and build more efficient and sustainable organizational structures that support long-term success.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my professional and personal life are honesty, transparency, accountability, and teamwork. I believe these principles are the foundation of strong relationships, effective leadership, and successful organizations. By consistently upholding these values, I strive to build trust, support others, and contribute positively to every team and community I am part of.
Locations
Marine Repair Services - Container Maintenance Corporation
Johns Island, SC 29455