The Jekyll Island Authority (JIA) Board of Directors has selected Mark Williams to serve as the new Executive Director of the JIA, succeeding current Executive Director Jones Hooks, who will retire June 30th. Williams is the current Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and a JIA Board member. 

“We are looking forward to having Commissioner Williams join us as JIA Executive Director, said Dale Atkins, JIA Board Chairman. “I know I speak for the full Board in saying how confident we feel in the experience Mark brings from his tenure with DNR and his years of service on the JIA Board, and we believe he will continue to steward the island in this new role.” 

Williams has served as Commissioner of Georgia DNR since 2010 with duties that include serving on the JIA Board. He also served as a member of the House of Representatives for District 178 from 2005 to 2010, among other experience. 

“Marty, the girls, and I congratulate Commissioner Mark Williams on this great opportunity and want to thank him for his many years of dedicated service to the people of our state,” said Georgia Governor Brian Kemp. “Under his leadership, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources has made great strides in conserving the beautiful assets of our state and our shared natural heritage. With a record of service stretching back to his time in the Georgia House of Representatives and through his contributions on many boards and authorities, he has impacted our state in a significant and lasting way. We are thankful for all Mark has done and wish him and Pam well as they continue to promote our natural wonders through his new role.” 

The JIA Board conducted an interview process in coordination with the JIA Human Resources Department. The Executive Director’s position received a total of 17 applications and the selection committee chose four of those applicants who demonstrated appropriate knowledge to receive an interview. 

Pending final agreement, Williams will begin July 1, 2023. The three-year employment agreement includes a base compensation set at $250,000 annually, a performance incentive of up to $25,000, and a vehicle allowance up to $10,000.