Haslam College of Business - Josh Scull

Josh Scull (HCB, ’09; MSMHR, ’14) is a proud graduate of the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Haslam College of Business, where he immersed himself in the UT student chapter of Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), an involvement that opened doors to invaluable networking opportunities and provided a jumpstart in his chosen profession.

For Scull, his natural ability to relate to others and mediate conflicts, coupled with a love for strategy and problem-solving, made human resources (HR) the perfect fit. “Being in HR allows me to be heavily involved in all aspects of the business, giving me the opportunity to help leaders and employees across the company,” he says. “It is truly a rewarding career.”

At UT, Scull valued classroom discussions that encouraged critical thinking and personal growth, along with experiences outside of class, like cheering on Pat Summitt’s Lady Vols to two National Championships. A self-proclaimed “nerd at heart,” he also enjoyed meta-analysis studies, which continue to shape his evidence-based approach to HR today.

Scull serves as vice president of human resources at Paramount Global, where he supports CBS Sports and CBS Digital and has steadily advanced since joining in 2019, rising from HR business partner to vice president in just six years. His time at his first post-collegiate role at Oak Ridge National Lab was pivotal, thanks to leaders who encouraged him to pursue a master’s degree and Senior HR Professional Certification. “Lean in where you can and learn from solid mentors,” he advises. “Never stop challenging yourself to be better.”

Among his career highlights, Scull led HR strategy for the creation of the Golazo Soccer FAST Channel and supported digital business divestitures. Yet the most meaningful moments come from personal impact, like helping an employee take leave during her husband’s terminal illness. “These are the differences we can make in HR that are truly rewarding,” he reflected.

To current Haslam students, Scull emphasizes involvement in student organizations and pursuing internships. “It only takes one ‘yes’ to get the opportunity of a lifetime,” he says. He credits UT with building the foundation that still drives his success: leadership coaching, business case development, active listening, storytelling and strong communication.

Motivated by making a positive impact, whether securing well-deserved pay raises or guiding managers through tough conversations, Scull sees HR as a way to create lasting change. His journey is a testament to the power of hard work, mentorship and continuous learning.