Development Authority of Clayton

Executive Search

The Development Authority of Clayton County has retained The Chason Group to assist with the executive search for a President and CEO.

The Development Authority of Clayton County serves as the driving force behind economic development in south metro Atlanta. As the county's dedicated public‑agency partner for business recruitment, retention and expansion, DACC offers site‑selection assistance, competitive incentive packaging, access to locally‑owned land and development sites, and a pro‑business regulatory environment with expedited permitting. The Authority delivers streamlined access to local, state and federal incentives‑making it easier for companies to get started, scale and thrive here.

Located just 12 miles south of downtown Atlanta and home to approximately 297,703 residents (2024 US Census), Clayton County is among Georgia's fastest growing communities. With 90 percent of Hartsfield‑Jackson Atlanta International Airport located within its borders, the county offers unparalleled access to global transportation and logistics. Industry clusters such as logistics and distribution, health services, aviation and aerospace manufacturing, and film production are thriving here.

The county also prioritizes workforce development, infrastructure investment, and business‑friendly policies creating an environment where both companies and residents can grow together.

• Bachelor's degree, ideally with an MBA or other postgraduate work, in the area(s) of economic development, community development, real estate, public relations, public administration, business, and/or marketing from an accredited college or university or equivalent experience.
• Proven track record of successful business attraction, retention, and expansion projects.
• Three years of executive‑level leadership experience in economic development, with substantial experience in a managerial role.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to drive strategic planning and execute complex projects.
• An innovative, creative, and strategic thinker who has experience in developing relevant initiatives and goals.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, capable of working effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Deep understanding of public policy, economic trends, and business climates.
• Ability to navigate government processes and leverage public‑private partnerships.

• Develop an organizational culture that exudes collaboration and partnerships for the global success of the Authority and community. These duties shall include, but are not limited to, the following initiatives:
• Develop and implement comprehensive economic development strategies that align with the vision and mission of the Authority.
• Lead efforts to attract new businesses to the region by promoting the area's economic advantages.
• Continuously build upon a creative target marketing action plan to attract specific sector‑related businesses identified by the Authority, in order to build a diverse tax base and blend of local businesses.
• Work with economic development organizations, chambers of commerce, educational institutions, governments, and business leaders on local, state, and federal levels to enhance the economic development environment of the community.
• Maintain relationships with statewide project managers, site selection consultants, property owners, and real estate brokers.

• Serve as the fiscal agent for transactions relating to the Development Authority. These duties shall include, but are not limited to, the following responsibilities:
• Develop and present to the board for approval, promptly and on an annual basis, a budget that represents the goals and objectives of the Development Authority.
• Audit, allocate, and approve all invoices for expenses incurred by the Development Authority supporting the respective operations and matching the strategic initiatives.
• Consistently review options for additional funding sources to enhance the economic environment of the community. This shall include grants based on the needs of the community.

The President is responsible for selecting, leading, managing, and empowering the paid professional staff.