"The first step in an executive search process is to listen."
- Tim Chason, President and CEO
- Tim Chason, President and CEO
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The Chason Group's Executive Search Services
Executive recruitment in a competitive market is both complicated and time consuming. The team of experienced professionals at The Chason Group is prepared to assist chambers of commerce, economic development organizations, foundations, destination marketing organizations, convention and visitors bureaus, and other non-profit entities in identifying qualified individuals to serve in leadership roles. The personal approach and successful process provided by The Chason Group makes the difference. Read what our stakeholders have to say about their success by clicking here. For more information about The Chason Group, please contact Tim Chason at 404.735.0540 or [email protected]. |
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Upcoming Executive Searches
City of Denton Convention and Visitors Bureau, Denton, TX - Executive Director
City of Tucker, Tucker, GA - Director of Economic Development
Henry County Development Authority, McDonough, GA - Executive Director
Jackson Area Chamber of Commerce, Jefferson, GA - Vice President of Economic Development
Valdosta-Lowndes County Development Authority, Valdosta, GA - Executive Director
The Latest News From TCG
Georgia
Kyle Ray to Lead Gilmer County Chamber of Commerce
Kyle D. Ray
(Ellijay, Georgia - December 2024) The Board of Directors of the Gilmer County Chamber of Commerce has selected a native of the community to serve as the president and chief executive officer of the business organization. Kyle D. Ray, a well-known and respected banker in the north Georgia region, started his new leadership role last week.
The Chason Group led the executive search for the Gilmer Chamber.
Ray, who has raised his three children in the community, has been serving as Senior Vice President, Director of branch services for Builtwell Bank in Chattanooga, Tennessee. He has also held senior level positions with the First Bank of Dalton, Bank of Ellijay, Appalachian Community Bank, and Santek Environmental. He earned a BBA in Management and Finance with a concentration in Accounting from Kennesaw State University and completed many of his undergraduate studies at the Georgia Institute of Technology.
For Ray's complete announcement and his new contact information, please click here. To learn more about TCG's current executive searches, please click here.
The Chason Group led the executive search for the Gilmer Chamber.
Ray, who has raised his three children in the community, has been serving as Senior Vice President, Director of branch services for Builtwell Bank in Chattanooga, Tennessee. He has also held senior level positions with the First Bank of Dalton, Bank of Ellijay, Appalachian Community Bank, and Santek Environmental. He earned a BBA in Management and Finance with a concentration in Accounting from Kennesaw State University and completed many of his undergraduate studies at the Georgia Institute of Technology.
For Ray's complete announcement and his new contact information, please click here. To learn more about TCG's current executive searches, please click here.
Georgia
Dublin-Laurens County Development Authority
Initiates Executive Search for President
(Dublin, Georgia) The Dublin-Laurens County Development Authority located in Dublin, Georgia, has initiated a search for a President. The area, which is experiencing great success with the expansion of existing companies and new investments of businesses, has received tremendous attention with the announcement of Hwashin and Woory deciding to “set up shop” and bring over 600 jobs combined to the area.
The Authority has retained The Chason Group to lead the executive search process to continue the success of the Development Authority.
Laurens County, Georgia is conveniently located between Atlanta and Savannah, giving access to the busiest airport in the United States, and the fastest growing and third busiest container port on the East Coast. The county is located along Interstate 16, one of the primary interstate highways in the Georgia highway system. Laurens County is home to the Heart of Georgia Mega Site, a 2,000-acre industrial park designed for large-scale facilities and recognized as the first dual certified Mega site and Super Park in the nation.
For more information about the President position with the Dublin-Laurens County Development Authority, please click here. For a complete listing of current executive searches now in progress for TCG, please click here.
The Authority has retained The Chason Group to lead the executive search process to continue the success of the Development Authority.
Laurens County, Georgia is conveniently located between Atlanta and Savannah, giving access to the busiest airport in the United States, and the fastest growing and third busiest container port on the East Coast. The county is located along Interstate 16, one of the primary interstate highways in the Georgia highway system. Laurens County is home to the Heart of Georgia Mega Site, a 2,000-acre industrial park designed for large-scale facilities and recognized as the first dual certified Mega site and Super Park in the nation.
For more information about the President position with the Dublin-Laurens County Development Authority, please click here. For a complete listing of current executive searches now in progress for TCG, please click here.
Metro Atlanta
Director - Policy & Government Affairs Position
Available with Council for Quality Growth
(Atlanta, Georgia ) The Council for Quality Growth, a 39-year-old organization based in Atlanta, Georgia, is searching for a Director - Policy & Government Affairs. The Chason Group has been retained to lead the executive search for the Council. The position will be filled prior to the start of the Georgia General Assembly in 2025.
The Council brings together advocates for those who work at the intersection of public policy and private investment, including developers, contractors, engineers, architects, planners, law firms, banks and CIDs.
The organization operates within an 11-county area of metro Atlanta, working with 87 local governments, and serving more than 5 million residents. The Council also extends its reach to the broader 20-county metro region, comprised of 142 local governments representing nearly 6 million residents.
For the complete Council of Quality Growth position description, please click here.
The Council brings together advocates for those who work at the intersection of public policy and private investment, including developers, contractors, engineers, architects, planners, law firms, banks and CIDs.
The organization operates within an 11-county area of metro Atlanta, working with 87 local governments, and serving more than 5 million residents. The Council also extends its reach to the broader 20-county metro region, comprised of 142 local governments representing nearly 6 million residents.
For the complete Council of Quality Growth position description, please click here.
Georgia
Jackson County Area Chamber Seeking President and CEO
(Jefferson, Georgia) The Jackson County Area Chamber of Commerce is seeking a President and Chief Executive Officer. The rapidly growing area is home to a strong existing industry base and residential opportunities. With a population of 90,000 and located just 62 miles northeast of Atlanta and 20 miles north of Athens, Georgia, the chamber leads economic development initiatives for the county. Jim Shaw, who currently serves as President and CEO, has announced his retirement at the end of 2024.
The Chason Group (TCG) has been selected to lead the executive search for the business organization.
The President and Chief Executive Officer is responsible for all aspects of operations for the business organization and reports directly to the Board of Directors through an annually elected Chair. The professional provides vision, strategic direction, and management for the programs and personnel of the organization. The leader demonstrates expertise in collaboration, nonprofit governance and operations, financial management, marketing, public policy and advocacy, and community, economic, and workforce development.
For more information about the Jackson County Area Chamber's President and CEO position, please click here. For a complete listing of executive searches now underway by TCG, please click here.
The Chason Group (TCG) has been selected to lead the executive search for the business organization.
The President and Chief Executive Officer is responsible for all aspects of operations for the business organization and reports directly to the Board of Directors through an annually elected Chair. The professional provides vision, strategic direction, and management for the programs and personnel of the organization. The leader demonstrates expertise in collaboration, nonprofit governance and operations, financial management, marketing, public policy and advocacy, and community, economic, and workforce development.
For more information about the Jackson County Area Chamber's President and CEO position, please click here. For a complete listing of executive searches now underway by TCG, please click here.
Georgia
Tim Evans, CEcD Chosen to Lead
Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce
Tim Evans, CEcD
(Gainesville, Georgia - November 2024) Business leaders with the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce have chosen the new leader for their organization from within. Tim Evans, who currently serves as Senior Vice President of Economic Development, has been approved unanimously by the Executive Committee as the next President and Chief Executive Officer. The chamber selected The Chason Group to lead the search for the organization.
The announcement was made by Brett Fowler, of Turner Wood & Smith Insurance and Chair of the Search Committee; and Glennis Barnes, of Georgia Power Company and current Chair of the Greater Hall Chamber. Evans will be replacing Kit Dunlap, who announced her retirement earlier this year after 26 years leading the chamber.
Evans joined the chamber’s economic development team in 2005. During his time with the organization, he has played a role in increasing annual investments from $50 million in 2005 to $2.4 billion between 2015 and 2023. A significant responsibility he currently has with the chamber is working with the Gainesville and Hall County Development Authority. He serves as Treasurer of the Authority.
For Evans' new contact information and the complete announcement, please click here. For a listing of TCG's current active executive searches, please click here.
The announcement was made by Brett Fowler, of Turner Wood & Smith Insurance and Chair of the Search Committee; and Glennis Barnes, of Georgia Power Company and current Chair of the Greater Hall Chamber. Evans will be replacing Kit Dunlap, who announced her retirement earlier this year after 26 years leading the chamber.
Evans joined the chamber’s economic development team in 2005. During his time with the organization, he has played a role in increasing annual investments from $50 million in 2005 to $2.4 billion between 2015 and 2023. A significant responsibility he currently has with the chamber is working with the Gainesville and Hall County Development Authority. He serves as Treasurer of the Authority.
For Evans' new contact information and the complete announcement, please click here. For a listing of TCG's current active executive searches, please click here.
Georgia
Aundi Lesley Accepts City of Canton
Economic Development Manager Position
Aundi Lesley
(Canton, Georgia - November 2024) Aundi Lesley has accepted the economic development manager position with the City of Canton. City Manager Billy Peppers made the announcement and Lesley has already started in the position. The Chason Group (TCG) led the economic development search for the city.
“Economic development is crucial to the citizens of Canton and the community as a whole,” according to Peppers. “Aundi has the skill sets and experiences we were seeking in an economic development professional. I believe her collaboration mindset will work well with other members of TeamCanton.”
Most recently, Lesley served as the downtown development director for the City of Rome, a position she had held since 2020. Previous positions include main street director with the City of Carrollton and program coordinator for the University of Georgia Small Business Development Center.
For Lesley's new contact information and the complete announcement, please click here. For a listing of TCG's current active executive searches, please click here.
“Economic development is crucial to the citizens of Canton and the community as a whole,” according to Peppers. “Aundi has the skill sets and experiences we were seeking in an economic development professional. I believe her collaboration mindset will work well with other members of TeamCanton.”
Most recently, Lesley served as the downtown development director for the City of Rome, a position she had held since 2020. Previous positions include main street director with the City of Carrollton and program coordinator for the University of Georgia Small Business Development Center.
For Lesley's new contact information and the complete announcement, please click here. For a listing of TCG's current active executive searches, please click here.
Alabama
AL School of Healthcare Sciences Foundation Launches
Search for President and Chief Executive Officer
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey signs bill establishing ASHS.
A newly formed foundation in Alabama has launched a search for their first President and Chief Executive Officer. The Chason Group has been engaged to lead the process for the Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences Foundation.
The ASHS Foundation is a charitable, 501c3 organization with the sole purpose of providing both financial and educational support for the Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences, scheduled to open in the Fall of 2026. This residential, specialty high school, part of the Alabama public school system, will offer curricula, instruction and work-based training focused on the health sciences to prepare students for career-readiness in the healthcare industry. Among the chief purposes of the school is to alleviate the healthcare workforce shortage in Alabama.
The ideal candidate for the position is a high-energy professional who has experience in fundraising significant dollars, preferably in the healthcare and/or education fields; experienced leader in the areas of team building, collaboration, Board and community relations, and strategic planning; and an analytical thinker with strong planning and financial management skills. The leader must have a high level of personal and professional integrity and a passion for serving rural areas. Excellent communication skills in the areas of listening, speaking to groups of all sizes, and writing reports and correspondences are also key requirements. The individual must also possess organizational and financial management skills for oversight of grants and budgets, internally and externally, and also have experience and knowledge of markets and financial investing. In addition, the professional must be willing to become consistently engaged in the communities served by the Foundation.
For the complete Foundation position announcement, please click here.
The ASHS Foundation is a charitable, 501c3 organization with the sole purpose of providing both financial and educational support for the Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences, scheduled to open in the Fall of 2026. This residential, specialty high school, part of the Alabama public school system, will offer curricula, instruction and work-based training focused on the health sciences to prepare students for career-readiness in the healthcare industry. Among the chief purposes of the school is to alleviate the healthcare workforce shortage in Alabama.
The ideal candidate for the position is a high-energy professional who has experience in fundraising significant dollars, preferably in the healthcare and/or education fields; experienced leader in the areas of team building, collaboration, Board and community relations, and strategic planning; and an analytical thinker with strong planning and financial management skills. The leader must have a high level of personal and professional integrity and a passion for serving rural areas. Excellent communication skills in the areas of listening, speaking to groups of all sizes, and writing reports and correspondences are also key requirements. The individual must also possess organizational and financial management skills for oversight of grants and budgets, internally and externally, and also have experience and knowledge of markets and financial investing. In addition, the professional must be willing to become consistently engaged in the communities served by the Foundation.
For the complete Foundation position announcement, please click here.
Georgia
VisitColumbusGA Begins
Executive Search for President and CEO
(Columbus, Georgia - October 2024) The Columbus Convention and Visitors Bureau d/b/a VisitColumbusGA is seeking a President and Chief Executive Officer. The CVB serves as the Destination Marketing Organization for the largest second tier city in Georgia. Peter Bowden, current leader of the DMO, has announced his plans to retire later this year. The Chason Group (www.thechasongroup.com) has been retained by VisitColumbus to lead the executive search.
The President and Chief Executive Officer will be directly responsible to the VisitColumbusGA Board of Commissioners. The professional will plan, direct, and coordinate the promotion and marketing of Columbus as a convention and tourist destination.
Named One of the Best Places for a “Dreamy Retirement in the South by Southern Living Magazine in 2022, Columbus, Georgia is approximately 90 miles Southwest of Atlanta near the Alabama state line.
For the position announcement regarding VisitColumbusGA, please click here. For a complete listing of executive searches led by TCG, please click here.
The President and Chief Executive Officer will be directly responsible to the VisitColumbusGA Board of Commissioners. The professional will plan, direct, and coordinate the promotion and marketing of Columbus as a convention and tourist destination.
Named One of the Best Places for a “Dreamy Retirement in the South by Southern Living Magazine in 2022, Columbus, Georgia is approximately 90 miles Southwest of Atlanta near the Alabama state line.
For the position announcement regarding VisitColumbusGA, please click here. For a complete listing of executive searches led by TCG, please click here.
Georgia
Ryan Purvis Approved as Chief Executive Officer
for Development Authority of Bryan County
Ryan Purvis
(Pembroke, Georgia - October 2024) The Development Authority of Bryan County has unanimously approved Ryan Purvis, a professional engineer and current resident of Bryan County, as the chief executive officer of the economic development organization. TCG led the executive search for the authority.
Located in the peach state’s coastal region, Bryan County is home to the Hyundai Motor Group’s ‘Metaplant”. The $7.6 billion factory will blend artificial intelligence, robotics, and human labor for a “smart factory” – putting the meta into a “Metaplant”.
Purvis was previously a financial leader for Northwestern Mutual, a Fortune 100 company specializing in risk management and investments. Other positions he has held include vice president, engineering and construction, Continental Heavy Civil Corp.; and chief engineer and vice president of east coast, Industrial and Crane Services, Inc. Purvis also served as project manager and structural engineer at Moffatt and Nichol Engineering.
For Purvis' new contact information, please click here. For information on TCG's current searches, please click here.
Located in the peach state’s coastal region, Bryan County is home to the Hyundai Motor Group’s ‘Metaplant”. The $7.6 billion factory will blend artificial intelligence, robotics, and human labor for a “smart factory” – putting the meta into a “Metaplant”.
Purvis was previously a financial leader for Northwestern Mutual, a Fortune 100 company specializing in risk management and investments. Other positions he has held include vice president, engineering and construction, Continental Heavy Civil Corp.; and chief engineer and vice president of east coast, Industrial and Crane Services, Inc. Purvis also served as project manager and structural engineer at Moffatt and Nichol Engineering.
For Purvis' new contact information, please click here. For information on TCG's current searches, please click here.
Texas
Kyle Jacobson Selected as CEO for
Allen Fairview Chamber of Commerce
Kyle Jacobson
(Allen, Texas - September 2024) Business leaders with the Allen Fairview Chamber of Commerce have selected a new leader for their organization. Kyle Jacobson, an emerging leader in the chamber field, has been named the new Chief Executive Officer. He most recently served as Vice President of Government Relations and Business Intelligence for the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce.
TCG led the executive search for the Allen Fairview Chamber.
Jacobson joined the Fort Worth Chamber team in January of 2023. From June 2016 until December 2022, he was the Vice President of Government Relations with the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce. His journey in the chamber of commerce industry began as a summer intern while completing graduate studies. The tour afforded him the opportunity to explore and grow in many areas of interest, including government relations, strategic planning, data analysis, non-profit finance, leadership, events, and so much more.
As a graduate of Texas Tech University with a Bachelor of Arts, Political Science and Master of Public Administration, Jacobson has also earned his Institute of Organization Management certification through the US Chamber of Commerce. He currently serves on the distinguished Board of Regents, US Chamber Institute of Organization Management (Midwest). In 2021, he was selected as one of the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives “40 Under 40” recipients. Jacobson is the author of “Advocacy Basics for Chambers: The ABC’s of Government Relations”.
For the complete announcement and Mr. Jacobson's new contact information, please click here. For information on TCG's current executive searches, please click here.
TCG led the executive search for the Allen Fairview Chamber.
Jacobson joined the Fort Worth Chamber team in January of 2023. From June 2016 until December 2022, he was the Vice President of Government Relations with the Lubbock Chamber of Commerce. His journey in the chamber of commerce industry began as a summer intern while completing graduate studies. The tour afforded him the opportunity to explore and grow in many areas of interest, including government relations, strategic planning, data analysis, non-profit finance, leadership, events, and so much more.
As a graduate of Texas Tech University with a Bachelor of Arts, Political Science and Master of Public Administration, Jacobson has also earned his Institute of Organization Management certification through the US Chamber of Commerce. He currently serves on the distinguished Board of Regents, US Chamber Institute of Organization Management (Midwest). In 2021, he was selected as one of the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives “40 Under 40” recipients. Jacobson is the author of “Advocacy Basics for Chambers: The ABC’s of Government Relations”.
For the complete announcement and Mr. Jacobson's new contact information, please click here. For information on TCG's current executive searches, please click here.
South Carolina
Megan Morris Chosen to Lead
Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce
Megan Morris
(Beaufort, South Carolina – August, 2024) Megan Morris, a native Beaufortonian, has been chosen to lead the Beaufort Regional Chamber of Commerce. She has been serving as interim president since November 2023. The announcement was made by 2024 Chair Nick Mesenburg, Site Manager for MCAS Beaufort. The Chason Group led the executive search for the Beaufort Regional Chamber.
"The Board believes Megan has the ambition and energy to move the chamber to the next level of service for our members,” according to Mesenburg. “She is committed to building a team of professionals, internally and externally, to leading and to strengthening the partnerships between local, state, and national government officials. There are many opportunities ahead for Beaufort, and the chamber will be at the leadership table to be a part of the solutions.”
As a graduate of the Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina, Morris earned a degree in marketing with a minor in public relations. She currently serves as a member of the Carolina Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives.
For Morris' contact information, please click here. For a complete listing of active executive searches being led by TCG, please click here.
"The Board believes Megan has the ambition and energy to move the chamber to the next level of service for our members,” according to Mesenburg. “She is committed to building a team of professionals, internally and externally, to leading and to strengthening the partnerships between local, state, and national government officials. There are many opportunities ahead for Beaufort, and the chamber will be at the leadership table to be a part of the solutions.”
As a graduate of the Darla Moore School of Business at the University of South Carolina, Morris earned a degree in marketing with a minor in public relations. She currently serves as a member of the Carolina Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives.
For Morris' contact information, please click here. For a complete listing of active executive searches being led by TCG, please click here.
Alabama
Nan Baldwin, IOM Chosen as CEO of Hoover Area Chamber
Nan Baldwin
(Hoover, Alabama – July 2024) The Hoover Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has unanimously chosen Nan Baldwin, a seasoned chamber executive, as their new Chief Executive Officer. She most recently served as the Birmingham Business Alliance’s Vice President, Chamber Operations, a position she has held since 2022. Nan was a member of the BBA team since 2009. The Chason Group led the executive search for the chamber.
“Nan has the passion, drive, and extensive knowledge to move the Hoover Area Chamber to a new level of service for our members and the community,” according to Tyler Lipe, Chair of the chamber’s Search Committee and Consumer Banking Manager, Senior Vice President at Regions Bank. “Her grasp of the issues facing businesses today is incredible. Nan has proven herself as a leader in the industry and someone who clearly can build teams and collaborate with other groups.”
As a US Chamber of Commerce Institute of Organization Management graduate, Baldwin also earned her Master of Arts in Public & Private Management from Birmingham - Southern College and Bachelor of Science – Commerce & Business Administration with a concentration in marketing from the University of Alabama.
“Excitement does not do justice to how I feel about becoming a part of the Hoover Area Chamber team,” Baldwin said. “The infrastructure for a solid business organization is already present. Along with the current internal team of professionals, the Board of Directors, and many other stakeholders in the community, I look forward to evaluating the existing initiatives the chamber has in place as well as building upon some new ideas that have been presented in the Elevate Hoover capital campaign strategic plan.”
For the complete position announcement and Baldwin's new contact information, please click here.
“Nan has the passion, drive, and extensive knowledge to move the Hoover Area Chamber to a new level of service for our members and the community,” according to Tyler Lipe, Chair of the chamber’s Search Committee and Consumer Banking Manager, Senior Vice President at Regions Bank. “Her grasp of the issues facing businesses today is incredible. Nan has proven herself as a leader in the industry and someone who clearly can build teams and collaborate with other groups.”
As a US Chamber of Commerce Institute of Organization Management graduate, Baldwin also earned her Master of Arts in Public & Private Management from Birmingham - Southern College and Bachelor of Science – Commerce & Business Administration with a concentration in marketing from the University of Alabama.
“Excitement does not do justice to how I feel about becoming a part of the Hoover Area Chamber team,” Baldwin said. “The infrastructure for a solid business organization is already present. Along with the current internal team of professionals, the Board of Directors, and many other stakeholders in the community, I look forward to evaluating the existing initiatives the chamber has in place as well as building upon some new ideas that have been presented in the Elevate Hoover capital campaign strategic plan.”
For the complete position announcement and Baldwin's new contact information, please click here.
North Carolina
Deathe Selected for Asheboro-Randolph
Chamber President & CEO Position
Adam Deathe
(Asheboro, North Carolina – July 2024) The Asheboro-Randolph County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has unanimously selected Adam Deathe as their new president and chief executive officer. He most recently served as president of Warroad Community Development in Warroad, Minnesota and begins his tenure in Asheboro this week. The Chason Group led the executive search process for the chamber.
The new chamber leader is recognized for his communication skills and experience as a marketer and collaborator. Deathe’s abilities to move an organization to the next level of service, as well as his enthusiasm and energy, were key skill sets and traits that matched the chamber’s profile required of candidates interested in the position.
In 2014, Adam became Manager of the Durham Business Improvement District in Durham, England. He focused his efforts on the creation of brands and events to develop and promote the city as well as championing partnerships working with city stakeholders. In 2021, he moved to Atlanta, Georgia to work as Director of Business Development for Avid Wealth Management Group LLC. With the Warroad Community Development, Deathe led initiatives to develop a more sustainable and vibrant community for Warroad’s citizens and visitors. This led to the development of Warroad Point Regional Park and other public access areas.
For the complete announcement and Deathe's new contact information, please click here. For a listing of The Chason Group's active executive searches, please click here.
The new chamber leader is recognized for his communication skills and experience as a marketer and collaborator. Deathe’s abilities to move an organization to the next level of service, as well as his enthusiasm and energy, were key skill sets and traits that matched the chamber’s profile required of candidates interested in the position.
In 2014, Adam became Manager of the Durham Business Improvement District in Durham, England. He focused his efforts on the creation of brands and events to develop and promote the city as well as championing partnerships working with city stakeholders. In 2021, he moved to Atlanta, Georgia to work as Director of Business Development for Avid Wealth Management Group LLC. With the Warroad Community Development, Deathe led initiatives to develop a more sustainable and vibrant community for Warroad’s citizens and visitors. This led to the development of Warroad Point Regional Park and other public access areas.
For the complete announcement and Deathe's new contact information, please click here. For a listing of The Chason Group's active executive searches, please click here.
London Mainor Joins The Chason Group
Executive Search Team
London Mainor
[email protected]
912.704.9426
London Mainor, an experienced marketing and public relations professional, has joined The Chason Group executive search team. She will be serving as Vice President of Business Development.
"I am very excited to have London joining our team," Tim Chason, President and CEO, said. "She brings a wealth of knowledge to our model in terms of marketing TCG's executive search services to chambers of commerce, economic development organizations, foundations, destination marketing organizations, and other non-profits. One of her primary roles will be to work with professionals considering a move from one executive level position to another."
London began her love of business development in Savannah, Georgia where she served as Vice President of Public Relations for outpatient rehab company, Spine & Sport. While working with Spine & Sport, London expanded her team of two to six marketing and public relations professionals and helped grow the company from two locations to six locations.
She served as the Service Line Marketing Account Executive for Phoebe Putney Health System in Albany, Georgia for four years before moving to the role of Executive Director of Terrell County Chamber of Commerce in rural Georgia. London implemented programs such as digital marketing education for members and re-implemented Leadership Terrell. In her position she was also responsible for Economic Development and the Visitors Bureau for Terrell County. London participated in the Annual Georgia Chamber of Commerce’s Georgia Quail Hunt each year which helped showcase the area of Southwest Georgia to potential businesses looking to locate in the state of Georgia.
Upon returning to North Georgia to her hometown of Cartersville, London began working for PruittHealth, developing relationships with the community and referral sources to grow the market.
London is a graduate of Georgia Southern University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing with a minor in public relations. She earned her Master of Business Administration from Kennesaw State, Coles College of Business with a focus on marketing.
"I am very excited to have London joining our team," Tim Chason, President and CEO, said. "She brings a wealth of knowledge to our model in terms of marketing TCG's executive search services to chambers of commerce, economic development organizations, foundations, destination marketing organizations, and other non-profits. One of her primary roles will be to work with professionals considering a move from one executive level position to another."
London began her love of business development in Savannah, Georgia where she served as Vice President of Public Relations for outpatient rehab company, Spine & Sport. While working with Spine & Sport, London expanded her team of two to six marketing and public relations professionals and helped grow the company from two locations to six locations.
She served as the Service Line Marketing Account Executive for Phoebe Putney Health System in Albany, Georgia for four years before moving to the role of Executive Director of Terrell County Chamber of Commerce in rural Georgia. London implemented programs such as digital marketing education for members and re-implemented Leadership Terrell. In her position she was also responsible for Economic Development and the Visitors Bureau for Terrell County. London participated in the Annual Georgia Chamber of Commerce’s Georgia Quail Hunt each year which helped showcase the area of Southwest Georgia to potential businesses looking to locate in the state of Georgia.
Upon returning to North Georgia to her hometown of Cartersville, London began working for PruittHealth, developing relationships with the community and referral sources to grow the market.
London is a graduate of Georgia Southern University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in marketing with a minor in public relations. She earned her Master of Business Administration from Kennesaw State, Coles College of Business with a focus on marketing.
Georgia
Development Authority of Appling County Selects
Matt Carter for President and CEO Position
Matt Carter
(Baxley, Georgia – June 2024) The Development Authority of Appling County has selected Matt Carter, a professional economic developer with years of experience, as the organization’s new president and chief executive officer. The announcement was made this week by David Douglas, chair of the authority and owner of Matrix Cabinets in Baxley. The Chason Group led the executive search for the development authority.
Carter has served as executive director of the Pierce County Industrial Development Authority in Blackshear, Georgia since July 2011. He is a graduate of Georgia Southern University and earned his Certified Economic Developer certificate from the University of Georgia.
Carter is replacing John Henry who spent almost two years with the economic development organization before relocating last fall to his hometown of Sylvania in Screven County, Georgia to take a similar position and be closer to family.
For Carter's complete announcement and his new contact information, please click here.
Carter has served as executive director of the Pierce County Industrial Development Authority in Blackshear, Georgia since July 2011. He is a graduate of Georgia Southern University and earned his Certified Economic Developer certificate from the University of Georgia.
Carter is replacing John Henry who spent almost two years with the economic development organization before relocating last fall to his hometown of Sylvania in Screven County, Georgia to take a similar position and be closer to family.
For Carter's complete announcement and his new contact information, please click here.
Northwest Georgia
Sarah Bradfield Named Executive Director of esp Rome
Sarah Bradfield
(Rome, Georgia / June 2024) esp, Inc. has named Sarah Bradfield of Rome as Executive Director for esp Rome. She will manage strategic implementation of the organization’s programs, operations and fundraising specific to Rome. The announcement was made by esp Chief Executive Officer Laura Hope Whitaker. The Chason Group led the executive search for esp.
esp exists to create transformative experiences for people with disabilities and their families, changing communities for the better. The non-profit group recently purchased a facility at 1818 Kingston Highway in Rome and received special zoning approval from the Floyd County Board of Commissioners.
Bradfield most recently served as the Executive Director of Advancement at Georgia Highlands College where she provided oversight for institutional advancement for the Georgia Highlands College Foundation. Other positions she has held include Director of Development and Alumni at Shorter University and as Director of Development for the Boys and Girls Club of Northwest Georgia. As a classroom teacher earlier in her career, Bradfield developed a program for students with intellectual disabilities and was the Director of Special Education at a Rome City middle school.
For the complete announcement and Ms. Bradfield's new contact information, please click here. For a listing of TCG's current executive searches, please click here.
esp exists to create transformative experiences for people with disabilities and their families, changing communities for the better. The non-profit group recently purchased a facility at 1818 Kingston Highway in Rome and received special zoning approval from the Floyd County Board of Commissioners.
Bradfield most recently served as the Executive Director of Advancement at Georgia Highlands College where she provided oversight for institutional advancement for the Georgia Highlands College Foundation. Other positions she has held include Director of Development and Alumni at Shorter University and as Director of Development for the Boys and Girls Club of Northwest Georgia. As a classroom teacher earlier in her career, Bradfield developed a program for students with intellectual disabilities and was the Director of Special Education at a Rome City middle school.
For the complete announcement and Ms. Bradfield's new contact information, please click here. For a listing of TCG's current executive searches, please click here.
South Carolina
Jim Tunison Selected for
Aiken Chamber President & CEO Position
Jim Tunison
(Aiken, South Carolina – March 2024) The Aiken Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has unanimously selected Jim Tunison as their next president and chief executive officer. For the past five years, he has been serving as the director of membership services for the business organization. The Chason Group was retained by the Aiken Chamber to lead the executive search.
Tunison is replacing David Jameson who served the Aiken Chamber for 18 years before retiring at the end of February.
The 29-year-old Tunison is a graduate of Misericordia University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration and a Master of Business Administration. He has also completed his first year of US Chamber Institute for Organization Management. Institute is designed to enhance individual performance, elevate professional standards, and recognize association, chamber of commerce, and other nonprofit professionals who demonstrate the knowledge essential to the practice of nonprofit management.
"Jim has the experience as a chamber leader, collaborator, and energy the search committee was looking for to fill the position,” according to Charlie Hartz, volunteer chair of the chamber and owner of Village Café and Scenthound. “He is a confident professional who has the enthusiasm required to move our 5-star chamber to a new level of service for the membership and community. Jim understands the local issues and has proven himself as someone who is committed to making a positive difference in the community.”
For the complete position announcement and Tunison's new contact information, please click here. For a listing of current executive searches underway by TCG, please click here.
Tunison is replacing David Jameson who served the Aiken Chamber for 18 years before retiring at the end of February.
The 29-year-old Tunison is a graduate of Misericordia University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration and a Master of Business Administration. He has also completed his first year of US Chamber Institute for Organization Management. Institute is designed to enhance individual performance, elevate professional standards, and recognize association, chamber of commerce, and other nonprofit professionals who demonstrate the knowledge essential to the practice of nonprofit management.
"Jim has the experience as a chamber leader, collaborator, and energy the search committee was looking for to fill the position,” according to Charlie Hartz, volunteer chair of the chamber and owner of Village Café and Scenthound. “He is a confident professional who has the enthusiasm required to move our 5-star chamber to a new level of service for the membership and community. Jim understands the local issues and has proven himself as someone who is committed to making a positive difference in the community.”
For the complete position announcement and Tunison's new contact information, please click here. For a listing of current executive searches underway by TCG, please click here.
Georgia
Cheney Eldridge Chosen to Lead
Economic Development in Columbia County
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(Evans, Georgia – February 2024) The Development Authority of Columbia County (DACC) has selected Cheney Eldridge, an economic development professional in the region, as the professional to serve as executive director. The announcement was made by Rick Evans of SME CPAs and Chair of the DACC Board. Eldridge’s first day at the authority is scheduled for March 4.
The Chason Group, a firm specializing in economic development organizations, chambers of commerce, tourism, and non-profit executive searches, assisted the authority in the executive search process. “Cheney is an excellent candidate to serve as the next executive director of DACC,” according to Evans. “Her expertise and energy in the field of economic development will mix well with the needs of our community in terms of existing companies and new developments. She is known in the region and on the state level as someone who is pro-active and focused.” For the complete position announcement and Eldridge's new contact information effective March 4, please click here. For a listing of current executive searches underway by TCG, please click here. |
Cheney Eldridge
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Chris Doane Selected to Lead Southern Conservation Trust
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(Fayetteville, Georgia – February 2024) The Board of Directors of Southern Conservation Trust (SCT) has unanimously selected Chris Doane, a dedicated and proven conservation enthusiast, as their new President and Chief Executive Officer. The announcement was made by James Yates, Chair of the Board and Senior Construction Manager for Comcast. The Chason Group assisted SCT with the search process.
Doane most recently served as President and Creative Director for The Crezent Agency in Newnan, Georgia. The award-winning marketing agency offers a broad range of consulting services to a diverse client base. Doane and his team consulted for multiple international brands and hundreds of small businesses including Hella, Duracell, Yanmar, and Piedmont Hospital. Previously, he held positions with Atlanta American Corporation, Paxton Media Group, and Flint River College. “A lifelong aspiration of mine has been to positively influence my community,” Doane says. “Aligning with organizations focused on outdoor recreation, conservation, outdoor programming, and health and wellness has been my chosen path. My passion for adopted initiatives is reflected in tangible actions and measurable results. The position with Southern Conservation Trust resonates with my interests, successes, and achievements.” For the complete position announcement and Doane's new contact information, please click here. For a listing of current executive searches underway by TCG, please click here. |
Chris Doane
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Craig Portwood Named Executive Director of esp Athens
Craig Portwood
(Watkinsville, Georgia / February 2024) esp, Inc. has named Craig Portwood, a senior management professional with experience in not-for-profit organizations, as the new executive director for esp Athens. He will oversee strategic implementation of esp’s programs, operations and fundraising specific to Athens. The announcement was made by esp Chief Executive Officer Laura Hope Whitaker and Chief People Officer Ashley Stewart.
The Chason Group was retained by esp Athens to lead the executive search process.
The executive position was recently developed under a new model of operations for the organization. Whitaker has been serving in the role and now will transition to spend more of her energies growing esp on a national level. Three other fully operational sites are planned for 2024 in Georgia.
Portwood most recently served as associate vice president of alumni and main campus operations at Georgia Military College in Milledgeville, Georgia. He has also held the director of alumni and community engagement and director of development positions with the college.
For the complete position announcement and Portwood's new contact information, please click here. For a listing of current executive searches underway by TCG, please click here.
The Chason Group was retained by esp Athens to lead the executive search process.
The executive position was recently developed under a new model of operations for the organization. Whitaker has been serving in the role and now will transition to spend more of her energies growing esp on a national level. Three other fully operational sites are planned for 2024 in Georgia.
Portwood most recently served as associate vice president of alumni and main campus operations at Georgia Military College in Milledgeville, Georgia. He has also held the director of alumni and community engagement and director of development positions with the college.
For the complete position announcement and Portwood's new contact information, please click here. For a listing of current executive searches underway by TCG, please click here.
