Barnesville-Lamar County Industrial Development Authority

Barnesville‑Lamar County Industrial Development Authority Organization Overview

The Barnesville‑Lamar County Industrial Development Authority (IDA) serves as the primary economic development marketing entity for Lamar County, Georgia. As one of the last segments of the most recent ring of Atlanta development and nestled in central Georgia just an hour from Atlanta along I‑75, the county boasts a growing population of approximately 20,000 residents, a rising interest by corporations, and is home to Gordon State College.

The Executive Director will oversee the economic development program for the Barnesville‑Lamar County community, funded by the city of Barnesville and Lamar County. Reporting to an 8‑member board, the Executive Director will provide strategic planning, guidance, industry research, and workforce development strategies. This role focuses on job maintenance and growth, new investment opportunities, and industrial product development, with an emphasis on sustaining a balanced tax base.

Key responsibilities will include recruiting new businesses, supporting the expansion of existing industries, providing tactical guidance to the IDA board and elected officials, and managing daily operations, including details associated with building and office management. The Executive Director will be instrumental in developing and implementing an economic development plan and budget, while facilitating collaborations among partners, city agencies, and stakeholders to promote job creation and economic prosperity.

• Strong desire to grow the economic prosperity and quality of life for the residents of Lamar County.
• Bachelor’s degree in economic development, community development, real estate, public relations, business administration, economics, marketing, or a related field from an accredited institution.
• Must have a current, valid driver’s license and submit to a background and credit check.
• 3–5 years of executive leadership experience in economic development, community development, or related fields, including experience with chambers of commerce.
• Professional certification as a Georgia Certified Economic Developer or a National Certified Economic Developer is preferred but not required.
• Strong understanding of budgeting, income statements, balance sheets, and economic development incentive options.
• Familiarity with, or willingness to learn, Quick Books for basic office accounting.
• Familiarity with real estate financing, grant writing, administration, and governmental agreements.
• Proficiency in Word, PowerPoint and/or Canva, and Excel for business correspondence and report preparation.
• Must have the ability to understand zoning regulations, state and local incentives, and apply best practices in business recruitment and retention.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively and professionally with corporate prospects, business stakeholders, and community leaders.