The Chason Group to find New President for Dublin-Laurens Development Authority

January 10, 2019

Dublin, Georgia - The Dublin-Laurens County Development Authority board of directors has initiated an executive search for a new president. The Chason Group, an executive search firm specializing in economic development organizations, chambers of commerce, foundations and non-profits has been engaged to assist. The process is expected to take 90 days with the goal of having a new professional in the office this spring.

“The board is taking a very methodical and transparent approach to finding the next economic development professional to lead the authority,” according to Guy Cochran, chair. “Our team has been very forward-thinking for many years and we continue that approach with the executive search. We want to make sure the right professional is chosen to lead the authority. While time is of the essence, finding the right person is much more important.”

The authority is the key organization in Dublin and Laurens County that focuses on marketing the community for new investments, expansion of existing businesses and maintenance of current employers.

The executive search has been broken into three phases. The first phase, considered the listening segment, was completed in December. Many community, non-profit, government and business representatives were interviewed by The Chason Group to garner feedback on how the authority should shape the position description for the next president as well as what skill sets that are most important.

The current phase is the “casting of the net” and identifying candidates that fit the traits identified in phase one. A position announcement has been posted with the International Economic Development Council, Georgia Economic Developers Association, Southern Economic Developers Council and various other social media sites that correlate with economic development. The Chason Group team is also reaching out direct to candidates in the industry who fit the profile.

The final phase of the executive search will initiate the narrowing of the candidate pool and interview process. A detailed application has been developed and will be provided to the candidates who meet a pre-determined set of criteria. After review and vetting, the authority anticipates interviewing the leading three to six candidates. The Chason Group will serve as the contact for candidates.

In addition to Cochran, other members of the authority include Scott Beasley, vice chairman; James Malone, treasurer; Jimmy Allgood; Roger Folsom, immediate past chair; Phillip Gay; and Keith Griffin.

Members of the authority are appointed by the City of Dublin’s mayor and council and the Laurens County Board of Commissioners.

For more information about the search, visit www.thechasongroup.com.