The board of the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) voted today to accept Gov. Nathan Deal’s nomination of Chris Carr as the next commissioner of the state agency, effective Nov. 1, 2013.

“The board’s approval of Chris Carr is an important step in this process that allows us to seamlessly continue the work of bringing good jobs to Georgians. I trust that Chris will be a great partner for me and for the entire state when it comes to achieving my goal of making Georgia the No. 1 place in the nation in which to do business,” said Gov. Deal.

“I am deeply honored that Governor Deal nominated me to succeed Chris Cummiskey as the Commissioner of Economic Development, and I am thankful that the board voted to accept my nomination,” said Carr. “I thank Chris for his great service to our state, and I look forward to working closely with Governor Deal to continue to make Georgia the No. 1 state in the country to do business.”

Carr will succeed current commissioner Chris Cummiskey, who will leave GDEcD Oct. 11 to 
join Southern Co. as chief commercial officer of Southern Power. 
 
Carr comes to GDEcD from the office of U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson, where he has served as a member of his staff since 2004 and as chief of staff since 2007. His previous positions include with Georgia-Pacific, the Georgia Public Policy Foundation and with Alston & Bird in Atlanta. He received his law degree and Bachelor of Business Administration degree at the University of Georgia.

“You couldn’t find a more outstanding person to lead this agency,” said Chris Cummiskey. “As hard as it is to leave this exceptional team, I rest easy knowing that Chris Carr will be here leading the charge. His passion for and deep knowledge of Georgia as well as his connections throughout the business world will ensure the state stays top of mind for companies looking to expand and grow.”