"The first step in TCG's 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 TCG makes the difference. For more information about The Chason Group, please contact Tim Chason at 404.735.0540 or [email protected]. |
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The Latest News From TCG...
North Fulton Community Charities Selects
Dr. Amy Gates Stroud as President
Dr. Amy Gates Stroud
(Roswell, Georgia – April 2026) North Fulton Community Charities (NFCC) has selected Dr. Amy Gates Stroud as the organization’s next President following a comprehensive national search conducted by the NFCC Board of Directors and Search Committee. Dr. Gates started in her new position this week. The Chason Group (TCG) led the executive search for the organization.
Dr. Gates brings nearly three decades of leadership experience across nonprofit organizations, education, and community initiatives. She will lead NFCC’s strategic direction, operational management, and community engagement efforts as the organization continues its mission of helping individuals and families overcome hardship and achieve financial stability.
“Dr. Gates stood out throughout this search process for her depth of nonprofit leadership experience, strategic mindset, and clear passion for community service,” said Matt Powell, Chair of the NFCC Board of Directors. “She brings a rare combination of operational expertise, relationship-building ability, and mission-driven leadership. The Board is confident that Amy will help guide North Fulton Community Charities into its next chapter while continuing to strengthen the programs and partnerships that make NFCC such an important community resource.”
For the complete announcement and Dr. Gates' new contact information, please click here. For a listing of TCG's current executive searches, please click here.
Dr. Gates brings nearly three decades of leadership experience across nonprofit organizations, education, and community initiatives. She will lead NFCC’s strategic direction, operational management, and community engagement efforts as the organization continues its mission of helping individuals and families overcome hardship and achieve financial stability.
“Dr. Gates stood out throughout this search process for her depth of nonprofit leadership experience, strategic mindset, and clear passion for community service,” said Matt Powell, Chair of the NFCC Board of Directors. “She brings a rare combination of operational expertise, relationship-building ability, and mission-driven leadership. The Board is confident that Amy will help guide North Fulton Community Charities into its next chapter while continuing to strengthen the programs and partnerships that make NFCC such an important community resource.”
For the complete announcement and Dr. Gates' new contact information, please click here. For a listing of TCG's current executive searches, please click here.
North Georgia
An Opportunity to Lead One of
Georgia's Premier Residential Communities
(Jasper, Georgia - April 2026) The Big Canoe Property Owners Association (POA) is seeking a dynamic, highly relational executive to serve as its next General Manager. This is a rare opportunity to lead a complex, high-performing organization that operates at the intersection of municipal-style governance, hospitality-driven service delivery, and community engagement. The Chason Group has been selected to lead the search process for the POA.
Big Canoe is widely recognized as one of Georgia’s most distinctive private residential communities—defined by its natural beauty, engaged property owners, and commitment to excellence. The next General Manager will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the community by strengthening trust, enhancing operations, and ensuring long-term financial and organizational sustainability.
The ideal candidate will be a visible, relationship-driven executive who combines strong operational leadership with exceptional interpersonal effectiveness. Stakeholders consistently emphasized the importance of a leader who builds trust through transparency, consistency, and accessibility; demonstrates emotional intelligence and sound judgment in a highly engaged environment; balances collaboration with decisiveness and accountability; serves as a “community executive,” functioning similarly to a municipal leader or public-facing CEO; and engages stakeholders thoughtfully while maintaining focus on long-term priorities. Cultural fit is critical. The successful candidate will appreciate Big Canoe’s unique character, including its natural environment, strong community traditions, and highly involved property owners.
For the complete position announcement for Big Canoe's General Manager position, please click here.
Big Canoe is widely recognized as one of Georgia’s most distinctive private residential communities—defined by its natural beauty, engaged property owners, and commitment to excellence. The next General Manager will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the community by strengthening trust, enhancing operations, and ensuring long-term financial and organizational sustainability.
The ideal candidate will be a visible, relationship-driven executive who combines strong operational leadership with exceptional interpersonal effectiveness. Stakeholders consistently emphasized the importance of a leader who builds trust through transparency, consistency, and accessibility; demonstrates emotional intelligence and sound judgment in a highly engaged environment; balances collaboration with decisiveness and accountability; serves as a “community executive,” functioning similarly to a municipal leader or public-facing CEO; and engages stakeholders thoughtfully while maintaining focus on long-term priorities. Cultural fit is critical. The successful candidate will appreciate Big Canoe’s unique character, including its natural environment, strong community traditions, and highly involved property owners.
For the complete position announcement for Big Canoe's General Manager position, please click here.
Texas
Kilgore Economic Development Corporation
Launches Search for Strategic Leader
I(Kilgore, Texas - April 2026) The Kilgore Economic Development Corporation (KEDC) is seeking a dynamic, relationship-driven executive to serve as its next Executive Director. This is a unique opportunity to lead a respected economic development organization at a pivotal moment, building on a strong legacy of performance while guiding the community through its next phase of strategic growth. The Chason Group has been selected to lead the process for the economic development organization.
The Executive Director will provide strategic leadership and operational direction for all aspects of KEDC's work, including business recruitment, retention, and expansion, real estate development, and stakeholder engagement. This role comes at a critical inflection point. Stakeholders have identified the need to restore organizational momentum, strengthen internal culture, and re-establish KEDC's visibility and credibility in the marketplace.
Kilgore, located in the heart of East Texas, is a pro-business community with a strong economic foundation and access to a multi-county regional labor market. Its strategic position along I-20 provides connectivity to major markets and supply chains. The business community is anchored by Synergy Business Park, home to a diverse industrial base, including manufacturing, energy, and logistics.
For the complete announcement for the KEDC position, please click here. For the latest listing of executive-level searches being led by TCG, please click here.
The Executive Director will provide strategic leadership and operational direction for all aspects of KEDC's work, including business recruitment, retention, and expansion, real estate development, and stakeholder engagement. This role comes at a critical inflection point. Stakeholders have identified the need to restore organizational momentum, strengthen internal culture, and re-establish KEDC's visibility and credibility in the marketplace.
Kilgore, located in the heart of East Texas, is a pro-business community with a strong economic foundation and access to a multi-county regional labor market. Its strategic position along I-20 provides connectivity to major markets and supply chains. The business community is anchored by Synergy Business Park, home to a diverse industrial base, including manufacturing, energy, and logistics.
For the complete announcement for the KEDC position, please click here. For the latest listing of executive-level searches being led by TCG, please click here.
Coastal Georgia
McIntosh County Industrial Development Authority
Initiates Search for President & CEO
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(Darien, Georgia - March 2026) The McIntosh County Industrial Development Authority has initiated an executive search for a President and Chief Executive Officer. The current executive, Tom Draffin, is retiring this year after a very successful career in economic development.
The Chason Group has been selected by the IDA to lead a national search for the organization. The President is responsible for recruiting new businesses, retaining and supporting existing businesses, and collaborating with community partners to develop, retain, and attract a strong workforce for the region. The executive is also accountable for oversight and direction of the Authority’s internal team, including volunteers, project management, and administration. For the complete McIntosh IDA position announcement, please click here. For a listing of TCG executive searches now underway, please click here. |
Coastal Georgia
Director of Tourism Position Open For Coastal Georgia
(Pooler, Georgia - March 2026) The Greater Pooler Area Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau seeks a strategic, innovative leader to serve as Director of Tourism. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the future of one of Georgia’s fastest-growing visitor destinations. The Chason Group has been retained to lead the executive search. TCG led the executive search for Kate Miller, IOM, in 2025 to serve as President and CEO of the organization.
Located within the Savannah coastal tourism market, Pooler is emerging as a regional hub for retail, hospitality, and entertainment. The Director will lead efforts to strengthen the destination brand, increase visitation, and expand tourism’s economic impact. This position will collaborate closely with hospitality partners, local government, and regional tourism organizations to elevate Pooler’s profile within a dynamic Southeast tourism market.
For the complete position announcement, click here. To review TCG's complete listing of executive searches now underway, click here.
Located within the Savannah coastal tourism market, Pooler is emerging as a regional hub for retail, hospitality, and entertainment. The Director will lead efforts to strengthen the destination brand, increase visitation, and expand tourism’s economic impact. This position will collaborate closely with hospitality partners, local government, and regional tourism organizations to elevate Pooler’s profile within a dynamic Southeast tourism market.
For the complete position announcement, click here. To review TCG's complete listing of executive searches now underway, click here.
Georgia
Dublin-Laurens County Chamber
Starts Search for New President & CEO
(Dublin, Georgia - March 2026) The Dublin-Laurens County Chamber of Commerce has started an executive search for its next President and CEO. The Chason Group has been retained to lead the process for the business organization.
Located in central Georgia, Dublin–Laurens County serves as an important regional hub for healthcare, commerce, manufacturing, and small business activity. The Dublin–Laurens County Chamber serves as the voice of the business community and a catalyst for economic and community development.
The President leads the organization’s strategic direction, advocates for the business community, and strengthens partnerships that support economic vitality throughout the community. The role serves as a bridge connecting businesses, government, education, and nonprofit organizations while overseeing chamber operations, including membership development, programs, financial management, and community engagement. This position requires a collaborative leader with strong communication skills and the ability to engage diverse stakeholders effectively.
For the complete position announcement, please click here. For a complete listing of current executive searches underway by TCG, please click here.
Located in central Georgia, Dublin–Laurens County serves as an important regional hub for healthcare, commerce, manufacturing, and small business activity. The Dublin–Laurens County Chamber serves as the voice of the business community and a catalyst for economic and community development.
The President leads the organization’s strategic direction, advocates for the business community, and strengthens partnerships that support economic vitality throughout the community. The role serves as a bridge connecting businesses, government, education, and nonprofit organizations while overseeing chamber operations, including membership development, programs, financial management, and community engagement. This position requires a collaborative leader with strong communication skills and the ability to engage diverse stakeholders effectively.
For the complete position announcement, please click here. For a complete listing of current executive searches underway by TCG, please click here.
Georgia
Jackson County Area Chamber Names Murriel Wiley
to Director, Economic Development Position
Murriel Wiley
(Jefferson, Georgia- March 2026) Murriel Wiley has been named Director, Economic Development for the Jackson County Area Chamber of Commerce in Jefferson, Georgia. The Chason Group led the executive search for the chamber. The announcement was made by Steve Wittry, President and Chief Executive Officer of the chamber, and also a placement by The Chason Group.
“Economic development has many components,” according to Wittry. “Those include recruitment of new manufacturing as well as assisting our existing businesses. Murriel brings a tremendous amount of experience and energy to the chamber in those areas and many others, like entrepreneurship, small business development, and workforce development.”
Wiley most recently served as a Fellow for the Economic Development Recovery Corps, a multi-year, $30 million collaborative initiative designed to accelerate recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic in distressed communities and regions throughout the U.S. by connecting organizations with the talent and capacity needed to advance new ways of doing economic development that promote economic resilience and transformation. The program is led by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) in partnership with several other business-focused organizations.
For the complete announcement and Ms. Wiley's new contact information, please click here. For a listing of TCG's current executive searches in progress, please click here.
“Economic development has many components,” according to Wittry. “Those include recruitment of new manufacturing as well as assisting our existing businesses. Murriel brings a tremendous amount of experience and energy to the chamber in those areas and many others, like entrepreneurship, small business development, and workforce development.”
Wiley most recently served as a Fellow for the Economic Development Recovery Corps, a multi-year, $30 million collaborative initiative designed to accelerate recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic in distressed communities and regions throughout the U.S. by connecting organizations with the talent and capacity needed to advance new ways of doing economic development that promote economic resilience and transformation. The program is led by the International Economic Development Council (IEDC) in partnership with several other business-focused organizations.
For the complete announcement and Ms. Wiley's new contact information, please click here. For a listing of TCG's current executive searches in progress, please click here.
Texas
Terrell Economic Development Corporation
Launches Search for Economic Development Manager
(Terrell, Texas, DFW Metroplex - February 2026) The Terrell Economic Development Corporation (TEDC), located in the DFW Metroplex MSA, has launched an executive search for an Economic Development Manager. The Chason Group (TCG) is leading the process for the organization.
TEDC serves as the lead organization responsible for advancing economic growth, investment, and job creation in the City of Terrell, Texas. Working in close partnership with the City of Terrell, the Chamber of Commerce, regional organizations, educational institutions, and private-sector stakeholders, TEDC implements strategies that support business recruitment, retention, workforce development, and quality-of-place initiatives.
The Economic Development Manager will support and implement the organization’s strategic priorities, including assisting in the execution of the TEDC strategic plan, which highlights project coordination and reporting, supporting business recruitment efforts, and coordinating workforce development initiatives.
For the complete position announcement, please click here. To apply for the Economic Development Manager position, please click here.
TEDC serves as the lead organization responsible for advancing economic growth, investment, and job creation in the City of Terrell, Texas. Working in close partnership with the City of Terrell, the Chamber of Commerce, regional organizations, educational institutions, and private-sector stakeholders, TEDC implements strategies that support business recruitment, retention, workforce development, and quality-of-place initiatives.
The Economic Development Manager will support and implement the organization’s strategic priorities, including assisting in the execution of the TEDC strategic plan, which highlights project coordination and reporting, supporting business recruitment efforts, and coordinating workforce development initiatives.
For the complete position announcement, please click here. To apply for the Economic Development Manager position, please click here.
Georgia
Heath Taylor, IOM Named President & CEO of
Columbia County Chamber of Commerce
Heath Taylor, IOM
(Evans, Georgia - February 2026) Today marks Heath Taylor’s first day as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Columbia County Chamber of Commerce, where he brings over 18 years of proven leadership in chambers, business advocacy, and nonprofit management to one of Georgia’s fastest-growing regions. The Chason Group (TCG) led the executive search process for the chamber.
Taylor previously served as President and CEO of the Dublin-Laurens County Chamber of Commerce, where for the past ten years he led the organization through a period of sustained growth, increased financial strength, and expanded community impact. Known as a collaborative leader and strategic thinker, his experience spans membership development, workforce and education initiatives, advocacy, and the creation of successful revenue-generating programs that strengthen long-term organizational sustainability.
For the complete announcement and Taylor's new contact information, please click here. For a listing of current and upcoming executive searches, please click here.
Taylor previously served as President and CEO of the Dublin-Laurens County Chamber of Commerce, where for the past ten years he led the organization through a period of sustained growth, increased financial strength, and expanded community impact. Known as a collaborative leader and strategic thinker, his experience spans membership development, workforce and education initiatives, advocacy, and the creation of successful revenue-generating programs that strengthen long-term organizational sustainability.
For the complete announcement and Taylor's new contact information, please click here. For a listing of current and upcoming executive searches, please click here.
Five-Star Accredited
Albany Area Chamber Announces
Executive Search for President & CEO
(Albany, Georgia - October 2025) The Albany Area Chamber of Commerce is seeking a dynamic, visionary leader to serve as its next President & CEO. This is a unique opportunity to guide the Chamber’s strategic direction, champion the interests of the business community, and advance Albany’s position as a leading center for commerce, innovation, and regional prosperity. The Chason Group (TCG) has been selected by the Chamber to lead the executive search.
Albany is recognized as a hub of economic diversity, home to thriving industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, logistics, defense, and healthcare. Major employers in the area include Phoebe Putney Health Systems, Procter & Gamble, Mars Wrigley, Georgia-Pacific, Molson Coors, Angelini Pharma, and Thrush Aircraft.
For the complete Albany Area Chamber position announcement, please click here. For a listing of TCG's current executive searches in progress, please click here
Albany is recognized as a hub of economic diversity, home to thriving industries such as manufacturing, aerospace, logistics, defense, and healthcare. Major employers in the area include Phoebe Putney Health Systems, Procter & Gamble, Mars Wrigley, Georgia-Pacific, Molson Coors, Angelini Pharma, and Thrush Aircraft.
For the complete Albany Area Chamber position announcement, please click here. For a listing of TCG's current executive searches in progress, please click here
Touwsma Named Manager of Programming and Events
for Leadership Georgia
(Atlanta, Georgia – December 2025) The Leadership Georgia Board of Trustees has announced the appointment of Angel Touwsma as Manager of Programming and Events. The announcement was made by Jamie McCurry, Leadership Georgia chair.
The Chason Group led the executive search for the Leadership Georgia Board.
A Leadership Georgia alumna from the Class of 2013, Touwsma has remained actively involved with the organization for over a decade. She served as Program Chair in 2014 and later as a member of the Board of Trustees from 2016 to 2019.
For the complete announcement and Touwsma's new contact information, please click here.
The Chason Group led the executive search for the Leadership Georgia Board.
A Leadership Georgia alumna from the Class of 2013, Touwsma has remained actively involved with the organization for over a decade. She served as Program Chair in 2014 and later as a member of the Board of Trustees from 2016 to 2019.
For the complete announcement and Touwsma's new contact information, please click here.
Albany Convention & Visitors Bureau
Selects Kasey Summerville as President & CEO
Kasey L. Summerville
(Albany, Georgia- November 2025) - The Albany Convention and Visitors Bureau, also known as Visit Albany, has announced Kasey L. Summerville as the new President and CEO. Johnny Seabrooks, Chair of the Albany CVB, made the announcement. The Chason Group was retained to lead the executive search for the organization.
Summerville has held multiple leadership roles with the Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau, including Vice President of Marketing, Communications & Community Engagement, Senior Director of Tax Revenue, and Director of National Accounts. In these roles, she developed and implemented long-term marketing strategies, launched city-wide tourism campaigns, negotiated major event contracts, and built strong partnerships with community stakeholders.
For the complete announcement and Summerville's new contact information, please click here.
Summerville has held multiple leadership roles with the Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau, including Vice President of Marketing, Communications & Community Engagement, Senior Director of Tax Revenue, and Director of National Accounts. In these roles, she developed and implemented long-term marketing strategies, launched city-wide tourism campaigns, negotiated major event contracts, and built strong partnerships with community stakeholders.
For the complete announcement and Summerville's new contact information, please click here.
Georgia
Paulding County Economic Development Names
Alex Almodóvar as New President & CEO
Alex Almodovar
(Dallas, Georgia - September 2025) The Paulding County Economic Development (PCED) has named Alex Almodóvar, MPA, AICP, President and Chief Executive Officer of the organization.
The Chason Group (TCG) led the executive search for the economic development organization.
Almodóvar most recently served as Development Director for the City of Acworth, Georgia, where he managed the city’s comprehensive economic development efforts—including business recruitment and retention, downtown revitalization, and public-private partnerships. Under his leadership, Acworth has earned the prestigious PlanFirst Community designation from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs and implemented a sweeping overhaul of its zoning ordinance and character overlay district.
For the complete announcement and Almodóvar's new contact information, click here.
The Chason Group (TCG) led the executive search for the economic development organization.
Almodóvar most recently served as Development Director for the City of Acworth, Georgia, where he managed the city’s comprehensive economic development efforts—including business recruitment and retention, downtown revitalization, and public-private partnerships. Under his leadership, Acworth has earned the prestigious PlanFirst Community designation from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs and implemented a sweeping overhaul of its zoning ordinance and character overlay district.
For the complete announcement and Almodóvar's new contact information, click here.
Georgia
Rome Floyd County Development Authority Approves
Spencer Hogg as President and Chief Executive Officer
Spencer Hogg
(Rome, Georgia - September 2025) The Rome Floyd County Development Authority (RFCDA) has approved Spencer Hogg as the next President and Chief Executive Officer of the economic development organization.
The Chason Group (TCG) led the executive search for the Authority.
Hogg most recently served as President and CEO of the Northwest Georgia Joint Development Authority (NWGAJDA), where he led economic development efforts for Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade, and Walker counties. In this role, he oversaw business recruitment, industrial expansion, and key public-private partnerships that have strengthened the region’s economy.
For the complete announcement and Hogg's new contact information, please click here.
The Chason Group (TCG) led the executive search for the Authority.
Hogg most recently served as President and CEO of the Northwest Georgia Joint Development Authority (NWGAJDA), where he led economic development efforts for Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade, and Walker counties. In this role, he oversaw business recruitment, industrial expansion, and key public-private partnerships that have strengthened the region’s economy.
For the complete announcement and Hogg's new contact information, please click here.
Metro Atlanta
Aaron Szarowicz Named
Economic Development Director for City of Brookhaven
Aaron Szarowicz
- (Brookhaven, Georgia - September 2025) Aaron Szarowicz has been named Economic Development Director for the City of Brookhaven, bringing nearly a decade of experience in local government, site selection strategy, and business attraction to the role. The announcement was made by Brookhaven City Manager Christian Sigman following a competitive nationwide executive search.
The Chason Group led the executive search for the city.
Szarowicz most recently served as Senior Project Manager of Business Attraction at Invest Atlanta, where he led a project pipeline of nearly 80 initiatives, administered state and local incentive programs, and helped secure over $223 million in capital investment and nearly 5,000 new jobs in Atlanta between 2023 and 2025. He is recognized for developing data-informed economic solutions, strategic partnerships, and creative tools to streamline incentive modeling and community engagement.
For the complete announcement and Szarowicz's new contact information, please click here.
Georgia
Victoria Everhart Named
Director of Operations for Leadership Georgia
Victorial Everhart
(Atlanta, Georgia – September 2025) The Leadership Georgia Board of Trustees has announced the appointment of Victoria Everhart as the organization’s Director of Operations.
The Chason Group led the executive search for the Leadership Georgia Board.
Everhart most recently served as Director of Engagement at Watercrest Senior Living in Macon, Georgia, where she developed strategic partnerships and created programming designed to enhance resident quality of life. She also worked at Reynolds Lake Oconee, leading operations and coordinating memorable experiences for both residents and guests.
For the complete announcement and Everhart's new contact information, please click here.
The Chason Group led the executive search for the Leadership Georgia Board.
Everhart most recently served as Director of Engagement at Watercrest Senior Living in Macon, Georgia, where she developed strategic partnerships and created programming designed to enhance resident quality of life. She also worked at Reynolds Lake Oconee, leading operations and coordinating memorable experiences for both residents and guests.
For the complete announcement and Everhart's new contact information, please click here.
Georgia
Angela Hall Named Economic Development Project Manager for
Henry County Development Authority
Angela Hall
(McDonough, Georgia – August 2025) The Henry County Development Authority (HCDA) has announced the appointment of Angela Hall as Economic Development Project Manager. The announcement was made by the Executive Director of the HCDA, Sharon K. Hill.
The Chason Group led the executive search process for the position.
Hall most recently served as a Talent Acquisition and Workforce Planning leader for Renewal by Andersen, where she spearheaded recruitment strategies, developed community partnerships, and supported a major Southeast expansion project in Locust Grove, Georgia.
For the complete announcement and Hall's new contact information, please click here.
The Chason Group led the executive search process for the position.
Hall most recently served as a Talent Acquisition and Workforce Planning leader for Renewal by Andersen, where she spearheaded recruitment strategies, developed community partnerships, and supported a major Southeast expansion project in Locust Grove, Georgia.
For the complete announcement and Hall's new contact information, please click here.
Texas
Franz Named Director of the Denton Convention & Visitors Bureau
Kristi Franz
(Denton, Texas – July 2025) Kristi Franz has been named Executive Director of the Denton Convention & Visitors Bureau, bringing over 12 years of experience in destination management, tourism marketing, and economic development to the role. The announcement was made by Dustin Sternbeck, City of Denton’s Chief Communications Officer.
The Chason Group led the executive search process for the city.
Franz most recently served as Executive Director of Explore Siouxland in Sioux City, Iowa, where she built a new Destination Marketing Organization from the ground up. She also led a comprehensive regional rebranding and expanded lodging partnerships to ensure long-term funding and visibility.
For the complete announcement and Franz' new contact information, please click here.
The Chason Group led the executive search process for the city.
Franz most recently served as Executive Director of Explore Siouxland in Sioux City, Iowa, where she built a new Destination Marketing Organization from the ground up. She also led a comprehensive regional rebranding and expanded lodging partnerships to ensure long-term funding and visibility.
For the complete announcement and Franz' new contact information, please click here.
Alabama
Huffman Named President and CEO of the
Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences Foundation
J. Scott Huffman
(Tuscaloosa, Alabama - July 2025) J. Scott Huffman, CFRE, has been named President and Chief Executive Officer of the Alabama School of Healthcare Sciences Foundation, a charitable nonprofit supporting Alabama’s fourth specialty high school scheduled to open in Fall 2026. The announcement was made by the Foundation’s Board of Directors.
The Chason Group led the executive search process.
Huffman brings more than three decades of leadership experience in fundraising, strategic planning, and nonprofit development. For the past 21 years, he served as Executive Director of Development and Strategic Planning at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where he also led advancement efforts for the School of Dentistry’s Alumni Association. Earlier in his career, Huffman was the founding President of the Alabama School of Math and Science Foundation in Mobile.
For the complete announcement and Huffman's new contact information, please click here.
The Chason Group led the executive search process.
Huffman brings more than three decades of leadership experience in fundraising, strategic planning, and nonprofit development. For the past 21 years, he served as Executive Director of Development and Strategic Planning at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, where he also led advancement efforts for the School of Dentistry’s Alumni Association. Earlier in his career, Huffman was the founding President of the Alabama School of Math and Science Foundation in Mobile.
For the complete announcement and Huffman's new contact information, please click here.
Georgia
Rich Johnson Named Executive Director of
the North Fulton Economic Alliance
Rich Johnson
(Alpharetta, Georgia - July 2025) Rich Johnson has been named Executive Director of the North Fulton Economic Alliance, a new public-private initiative of the Greater North Fulton Chamber. Johnson brings over a decade of leadership experience in government relations, broadband advocacy, and economic development strategy to the role. The announcement was made by the Greater North Fulton Chamber Board Chair, Dean Collins of Axis Companies.
The Chason Group led the executive search for the chamber.
Johnson recently served as AT&T’s Assistant Vice President of Legislative and Regulatory Affairs, where he led statewide public affairs initiatives and served as the company’s subject matter expert on broadband policy and telecommunications regulation in Georgia.
For the complete announcement and Johnson's new contact information, please click here.
The Chason Group led the executive search for the chamber.
Johnson recently served as AT&T’s Assistant Vice President of Legislative and Regulatory Affairs, where he led statewide public affairs initiatives and served as the company’s subject matter expert on broadband policy and telecommunications regulation in Georgia.
For the complete announcement and Johnson's new contact information, please click here.
Georgia
Kate E. Miller, IOM Named President & CEO of
Pooler Chamber of Commerce
Kate E. Miller
(Pooler, Georgia - July 2025) The Pooler Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau Board of Directors has announced the appointment of Kate E. Miller, IOM as the new President and Chief Executive Officer. With over 13 years of experience in chamber leadership, economic development, and tourism strategy, Miller brings a track record of measurable success, community partnership, and innovative programming to Pooler at a time of tremendous opportunity and growth. The Chason Group led the executive search for the chamber.
Miller most recently served as President & CEO of the Middleton Chamber of Commerce in Wisconsin, where she led a complete organizational transformation focused on member engagement, workforce development, and strategic partnerships. Her leadership resulted in the introduction of a tiered dues structure, the launch of a waitlist professional development series, and the creation of Mission: Workforce Alliance.
“I’m incredibly honored to join the Pooler Chamber at such an exciting time in the city’s evolution,” said Miller. “This community has so much energy, growth potential, and pride. I’m looking forward to listening deeply, building strong partnerships, and helping the Chamber serve as both a resource and a catalyst for business success and community connection.”
For the complete announcement and Miller's new contact information, please click here.
Miller most recently served as President & CEO of the Middleton Chamber of Commerce in Wisconsin, where she led a complete organizational transformation focused on member engagement, workforce development, and strategic partnerships. Her leadership resulted in the introduction of a tiered dues structure, the launch of a waitlist professional development series, and the creation of Mission: Workforce Alliance.
“I’m incredibly honored to join the Pooler Chamber at such an exciting time in the city’s evolution,” said Miller. “This community has so much energy, growth potential, and pride. I’m looking forward to listening deeply, building strong partnerships, and helping the Chamber serve as both a resource and a catalyst for business success and community connection.”
For the complete announcement and Miller's new contact information, please click here.
Georgia
Erica Rocker Approved As Director of Economic
Development for the City of Tucker
Erica Rocker
(Tucker, Georgia - June 2025) Erica Rocker has been named Director of Economic Development for the City of Tucker, bringing over two decades of experience in economic and community development to one of Metro Atlanta’s most dynamic and growing cities. The announcement was made jointly by John McHenry, City Manager, and Frank Auman, Mayor of Tucker. The Chason Group led the executive search for the City of Tucker.
Rocker, who most recently served as Economic Development Officer for the Clayton County Board of Commissioners, has earned a reputation as a strategic thinker, passionate communicator, and innovative leader. Her experience spans public-private partnerships, workforce development, small business growth, and large-scale investment initiatives throughout the metro region.
“Erica brings a high level of energy, professionalism, and deep industry knowledge to this role,” said McHenry. “Her background in leading economic development at the municipal and county levels gives her a strong foundation to help Tucker continue growing our business community in a way that aligns with the values of our residents.”
For the complete announcement and Rocker's new contact information, please click here.
Rocker, who most recently served as Economic Development Officer for the Clayton County Board of Commissioners, has earned a reputation as a strategic thinker, passionate communicator, and innovative leader. Her experience spans public-private partnerships, workforce development, small business growth, and large-scale investment initiatives throughout the metro region.
“Erica brings a high level of energy, professionalism, and deep industry knowledge to this role,” said McHenry. “Her background in leading economic development at the municipal and county levels gives her a strong foundation to help Tucker continue growing our business community in a way that aligns with the values of our residents.”
For the complete announcement and Rocker's new contact information, please click here.
Mitch Griggs Approved As President of
Dublin-Laurens County Development Authority
Mitch Griggs
(Dublin, Georgia - May 2025) Mitch Griggs has been unanimously approved as the new President of the Dublin-Laurens County Development Authority (DLCDA). The announcement was made by Roger Folsom, Chair of the DLCDA Board of Directors and President and CEO of Med1st, in Dublin following a two-week vetting period required by Georgia law.
The Chason Group led the executive search process for the economic development organization.
Griggs most recently served as Executive Director of the Union County Development Authority in Blairsville, Georgia, where he successfully recruited or supported 67 new business locations, created over 1,000 jobs, and attracted more than $99 million in private investment. Under his leadership, Union County also secured over $88 million in public funding for economic and infrastructure development projects.
For Griggs' new contact information, please click here.
The Chason Group led the executive search process for the economic development organization.
Griggs most recently served as Executive Director of the Union County Development Authority in Blairsville, Georgia, where he successfully recruited or supported 67 new business locations, created over 1,000 jobs, and attracted more than $99 million in private investment. Under his leadership, Union County also secured over $88 million in public funding for economic and infrastructure development projects.
For Griggs' new contact information, please click here.
Georgia
Niki Ogletree Named President and CEO
of Valdosta-Lowndes County Development Authority
Niki Ogletree
(Valdosta, Georgia - April 2025) Kathryn Y. Ogletree (Niki) has been named President & Chief Executive Officer of the Valdosta-Lowndes County Development Authority, the organization responsible for driving economic development and business growth in the Valdosta-Lowndes County region. The announcement was made by Brad Folsom, Chair of the Development Authority Board.
The Chason Group (TCG) was retained by the Development Authority to lead the executive search.
Ogletree, who had been serving as Interim Executive Director for the Development Authority, brings extensive experience in economic development, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement. She has been instrumental in fostering regional partnerships, attracting new industries, and strengthening the business ecosystem in Valdosta-Lowndes County.
"Niki has demonstrated outstanding leadership and a deep commitment to economic growth in our region," said Folsom. "Her ability to build strong relationships, execute strategic initiatives, and advocate for business expansion makes her the ideal professional to lead VLCDA into its next phase of success."
For the complete announcement and Ogletree's new contact information, please click here.
The Chason Group (TCG) was retained by the Development Authority to lead the executive search.
Ogletree, who had been serving as Interim Executive Director for the Development Authority, brings extensive experience in economic development, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement. She has been instrumental in fostering regional partnerships, attracting new industries, and strengthening the business ecosystem in Valdosta-Lowndes County.
"Niki has demonstrated outstanding leadership and a deep commitment to economic growth in our region," said Folsom. "Her ability to build strong relationships, execute strategic initiatives, and advocate for business expansion makes her the ideal professional to lead VLCDA into its next phase of success."
For the complete announcement and Ogletree's new contact information, please click here.
