George M. Israel, III, president and CEO of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce,

announced to the organization’s Board of Directors this morning that he intends to retire

from his current position.

“I’m proud of all we have accomplished since I joined the Georgia Chamber in 2002,”

said Israel.  “I’m leaving an organization that is strong financially, well-positioned

politically, and laser focused on the issues most important to the businesses of our

state.  While I have determined that it is time for me to make a change, I do so with full

confidence that the future is bright for both me and the Chamber.”

Under Israel’s leadership, the Georgia Chamber maintained a strong statewide

membership, raised over $1 million for the 48th Infantry Brigade of the Georgia National

Guard, and built an unsurpassed record of legislative success in areas including civil

justice, tax, water and education.  He also led the organization’s Georgia Initiative

campaign, which ultimately raised $7.5 million to augment the Chamber’s policy,

communications, and government affairs programs.

“George was the right leader at the right time for the Georgia Chamber,” commented

2010 Board Chair Suzanne Sitherwood (president, Atlanta Gas Light).  “His experience

and political savvy allowed him to successfully navigate us through times of both

political change and economic downturn.  We are fortunate that he was willing to give

us eight years and will benefit from the foundation he built for years to come.”

“Replacing George will not be easy,” added 2009 Board Chair Mike Garrett (president

and CEO, Georgia Power).  “I have known and worked with him for a long time and

there are few people who have dedicated as much time and energy toward the

betterment of our state.”

Israel, a former mayor of Macon, brought both business and political experience to the

Georgia Chamber.  He was named Georgian of the Year by Georgia Trend magazine in

2006 and was an active on the national level with both the U. S. Chamber of Commerce

and the Council of State Chambers.

Israel will remain with the organization until a replacement can be identified.  The

Georgia Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee will lead the search