The Andalusia Office Professionals Association held its annual Bosses Luncheon last week in the boardroom at PowerSouth, and named Leigh Grantham the 2017 Boss of the Year.

Grantham was nominated by her secretary, Tracey Nelson.

“Leigh is one of the few among the ranks of executives that still lead by example,” Nelson wrote in her nomination. “Whatever she expects of her reports, she will also willingly do herself-with integrity and pride.

She is an encourager and a motivator, instilling a high standard of work ethic in her employees. She not only encourages and mentors improvement in her employees, but participates in her employees’ personal development through involvement and guidance. In addition, she also hones her own skills through participating in personal development activities as well.

“Although often called upon to make tough decisions, Leigh is a very caring person and her personality sparks all those around her,” Nelson wrote. “Personally, she has inspired the drive in me to be ‘the best me I can be’ and she desires that for all her employees.”

Grantham joined PowerSouth in 2014 as vice president of member services and communications. Previously, she was senior vice president, strategy and business development at CFC, and served as CEO of one of PowerSouth’s member cooperatives, CHELO in DeFuniak Springs.

She is a member of the First United Methodist Church and has been involved in numerous organizations, including, Touchstone Regional Partner Member, National Cooperative Business Association Member, Workforce Development Board of Okaloosa-Walton Counties, United Way, and many, many more.