Meet the Team: Rainer Neely

James “Rainer” Neely serves as the Personnel Business Manager at Clemson University, utilizing his expertise in talent acquisition to drive business operations and strategic initiatives forward. He’s previously served as the Senior Director of Talent Acquisition and Retention for Chick-fil-A Headquarters where he was recognized for exceptional new hire retention. He says he was drawn to this new opportunity at Clemson’s CVM because of the blend of tradition and innovation that defines the University.

“The chance to be part of a place that not only honors its history but also actively shapes the future of veterinary medicine is incredibly compelling,” said Neely. “I saw an opportunity to contribute to a community where every role, including mine, has a direct impact on advancing both education and the profession at large.”

Neely is no stranger to Clemson. In another role, he excelled as a Human Resource Manager II – Executive Talent Partner, where he crafted a comprehensive talent acquisition strategy, saving significant costs through data-driven methods. Prior to this, in his tenure at Savannah River Nuclear Solutions, Neely held multiple roles, including Technical Recruitment Advisor and University Engagement Program Manager. As the CVM’s Personnel Business manager, he’ll be able to leverage his past experience to help the organization grow into a leader in veterinary medicine education.

“I’m most looking forward to the challenge of blending my expertise in HR and administration with the specific needs of the veterinary field. Every day offers a new puzzle to solve, and I’m excited about using creative strategies to improve processes, foster collaboration and support the incredible work happening at CVM. It’s about making every interaction and decision count toward something bigger—supporting the people who will go on to make a difference in the world through their veterinary careers.”

Neely strives to make a multifaceted impact on the CVM by creating an environment where everyone feels heard, valued and empowered to do their best work.

“This involves not just handling the day-to-day tasks efficiently but also fostering a culture of continuous improvement and innovation. Additionally, I aim to bridge gaps between different departments, ensuring that our collective efforts are aligned with the college’s long-term vision. My goal is to be a catalyst for positive change, helping to elevate CVM to new heights of success and influence in the veterinary community.”

Rainer actively engages with the Nuclear Workforce Institute, where he contributes insights and mentors aspiring professionals in the field. He has also led the Savannah River Nuclear Solutions Live United Charity and is a certified SCUBA Open Water Diver, demonstrating his commitment to both community and personal growth.

(Pictured below is Rainer with his dog, Max.)