WASHINGTON, DC -- The National Safety Council announced a strategic enhancement to its leadership structure, creating a distinct president role aimed at accelerating the organization's impact on safety initiatives.

Effective July 1, Nick Smith will transition from chief operating officer to president. Lorraine Martin will continue as CEO.

“This leadership enhancement allows us to be more responsive to emerging safety challenges,” Martin said. “By creating dedicated focus areas within our leadership, we can drive even greater impact in workplace and roadway safety.”

Smith, who joined NSC in 2017, brings extensive experience with the organization to his expanded role. As president, Smith will oversee program development and organizational effectiveness. Martin will continue to focus on policy advancement and stakeholder engagement, ensuring NSC remains a strong advocate for safety. Together, they will partner on guiding the NSC strategy.

"At a time when preventable deaths rank third among all leading causes of death, this evolution strengthens our ability to save lives," Smith said. "I look forward to expanding our safety programs and technologies that protect workers and communities."

This strategic shift reflects the Council’s commitment to innovation and responsiveness in addressing today’s complex safety environment, ensuring the organization remains well-positioned to lead in safety for years to come.