After more than a decade with the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission, President Justin Strickland announced Thursday that he is leaving the organization, effective February 29, 2020, to pursue other career opportunities.

Strickland’s announcement caps a 12-year run with the organization where he was instrumental in helping the ADEDC secure capital investment and jobs in Albany and Dougherty County.

Strickland spoke highly of the organization and the accomplishments the EDC has enjoyed during his tenure, including the launch of the Commodore Conyers College and Career Academy and the recent location of Georgia-Pacific’s $150 million lumber production facility in Dougherty County.

“Together, through sound leadership and innovative programs, and with the support of talented staff and committed partners, we have built a strong, award-winning, and internationally-recognized economic development organization that is well positioned to continue to lead Albany-Dougherty County forward,” said Strickland, who in his role at EDC also worked with the Albany-Dougherty Payroll Development Authority to develop and manage Albany-Dougherty County’s industrial parks and other assets. “I am very proud of the growth in the community and Southwest Georgia through the efforts of the Economic Development Commission and Payroll Development Authority during the last 12 years.”

After the announcement, board chair Cynthia George praised Strickland for his dedication and commitment to the organization he first joined in 2007 as the ADEDC’s director of special projects.

“I am grateful to Justin for his longtime service and commitment to the Albany-Dougherty EDC and to Albany- Dougherty County,” said George. “Justin worked up the leadership ranks of the EDC, demonstrating at each step his knowledge of economic development, his understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing communities and businesses, and building a team that has succeeded at growing investment and recruiting and retaining industry. Our community has benefited from Justin’s experience and dedication.”

Strickland said that in addition to the numerous projects that have located in the community over the past several years, he is also proud of the many industry distinctions the organization received during his time there and the successful #MadeInAlbanyGA campaign that was launched recently to help raise pride within the community and show the world at large what world class products are manufactured in Albany and Dougherty County.

“To be able to utilize my 12 years of experience in leading economic development initiatives to support business and industry, to continue developing and rebuilding economies and to work with strategic partners for continued success is what drives me,” he said.