The Dawson County Chamber of Commerce has selected Kevin Herrit to serve as Director of Economic Development, according to a press release from the business organization’s president and CEO, Mandy Power. 

Herrit’s first day is set for Monday, May 2. His appointment follows the chamber’s several-month search to fill the position, during which the Georgia-based firm The Chason Group was tapped to help lead the executive search process. 

“The economic development search committee has been very strategic in making a selection in this process,” Power said. “As a group, we were looking for a professional who understands a rural area while at the same time has the knowledge and skill sets to move our area forward in terms of new jobs and retaining existing businesses. Kevin brings those experiences to the chamber team.”

Previously, Herrit served as Dahlonega’s Community Development Director. He’s also served as a Principal Planner with Columbus (Ga.) Consolidated Government, Community Transportation Planner with Tennessee Department of Transportation and a city/county planner in Whitfield County. 

Herrit earned his bachelor’s degree in community and regional planning from North Carolina’s Appalachian State University. This May, he will receive his Master’s of Business Administration degree from the University of North Georgia.

He’s earned business and leadership certifications including one from the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP); Economic Development Finance Professional Certification (EDFP); Certificate in Entrepreneurship & Innovation from UNG; Managers Institute & Directors Institute (APA); and the Georgia Academy for Economic Development.

In the new role, Herrit will be responsible for leading a focused effort to increase commercial and industrial business investment in the county as well as promote job creation and retention. 

The overall goal is to expand the local tax base and grow new high-quality jobs, according to the press release. 

The Director of Economic Development also acts as a face for the chamber, Development Authority of Dawson County and community during meetings with clients, investors, developers, community leaders and other key stakeholders. 

“I look forward to becoming a part of the Chamber team as well as working with the elected and appointed leaders of the community,” Herrit said. “Small and professional business growth and retention will remain a high priority for the Chamber and Development Authority. It is also important that as a community and economic development team, we begin to establish relationships with the Georgia Department of Economic Development, and other statewide partners to present ideas for industrial growth opportunities. Economic development is a team sport, and I am excited to join the team.”