The Albany-Dougherty County Economic Development Commission has initiated an executive search for a new president and chief executive officer to lead the public-private partnership.  The economic development organization is designed to foster new investment and job creation through the recruitment, retention, and expansion of industry in Albany and Dougherty County.  The new professional will be held accountable to the board of directors.

“Our board is taking a very organized and strategic approach to the executive search process for a new president,” according to Dr. Anthony Parker, chair of the search committee and president of Albany Technical College.  “We want to make sure we identify the most qualified professionals who have the skill sets required to move the EDC and community forward in terms of economic development.  Our board is open to traditional and non-traditional candidates.”   

The search process will be broken into three phases.  The first stage, which is already completed, has focused on determining the skill sets needed for the professional in the position.  Over 25 community, regional and state stakeholders have been interviewed in order to provide input on the qualifications needed of the new executive.  A position description and profile has been established as well as a position announcement.

The second phase of the executive search process will be the casting of the net for candidates and specifically identifying professionals who may fit the role.  The final segment will be to interview candidates best suited for the position.  The process is expected to take 100 to 120 days.

“The EDC board is prepared to retool and refresh our approach to economic development,” says Cynthia George, chair of the board and chief executive officer of Horizons Community Solutions in Albany.  “Effective communications with the community, and most importantly our funding partners, will be one of the improvements that will be seen as the EDC selects a new president.  Our strategy for economic development should be an extremely competitive, targeted approach to the types of businesses we want in our region and building strong, meaningful relationships with our existing employers.”

The EDC is funded by the City of Albany, Dougherty County Board of Commissioners and the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce.  The twelve-member board is appointed by the funding partners for staggered terms.

The position announcement is available on the EDC’s website www.choosealbany.com.  Postings have also been placed with the Georgia Economic Developers Association, Southern Economic Development Council and the International Economic Development Council.  The deadline to apply is July 24.  A cover letter and resume can be uploaded at www.thechasongroup.com.

Matt Reed, a former board member of the EDC and Owner of Georgia CEO, has been serving as interim president for the past several months.

The Chason Group, an executive search firm specializing in economic development, is assisting the EDC board and search committee with the process.