News

FCDA Announces New President/CEO

by Matt Forshee • March 30, 2010

The Fayette County Development Authority Announced today that Matt Forshee, President/CEO, is leaving the Authority effective April 1 to become the President/CEO of the Athens-Clarke Economic Development Foundation, Inc., in Athens, Ga. Brandt Herndon has been named to replace Mr. Forshee as President/CEO.

Mr. Herndon was selected due to his background in economic development and commercial and industrial real estate. Most recently, he spent nine years with Apple Realty where he represented both sellers and buyers of industrial land and where he represented owners and tenants in industrial lease transactions. Prior to that he had 5 years with MEAG Power in their economic development division, including two years as Manager of that division. He also has three years of experience working for the state of Georgia in what was formerly known as the Department of Industry, Trade and Tourism, now known as the Department of Economic Development. Mr. Herndon has a bachelor’s degree in Finance from the University of Georgia and an MBA from Georgia State. Mr. Herndon begins in his position immediately.

Of the transition, FCDA Board Chairman Randy Hayes said, "Matt has had a successful four years with the FCDA. During his tenure, we were able to recruit both Sany America and NCR, two companies that will eventually create over 1,200 jobs in Fayette County. While we regret Matt’s departure, the Board and I are excited to see him grow in his career opportunities and expect to see many great things from him in the future.

“We also look forward to Brandt’s tenure as our new President/CEO. We were impressed by his deep economic development background and know that he will represent this community well as he recruits and grows new quality jobs for Fayette County.”

Mr. Herndon said, “I’m looking forward to working for the Fayette County Development Authority. I’m here to help existing businesses and to continue the efforts of my predecessors as President/CEO. Those past Presidents and the Board have set a high bar for me, but I look forward to representing Fayette County and its citizens as we work towards more successes.”

Both Mr. Forshee and Mr. Herndon’s new contact information is listed below and is also attached in VCard format.

Brandt Herndon
President/CEO
Fayette County Development Authority
200 Courthouse Sq
Fayetteville, GA 30214
P: 770.461.5253
F: 770.460.0259
bherndon@fayettega.org

Matt Forshee
President/CEO
Athens-Clarke Economic Development Foundation, Inc.
246 W Hancock Ave
Athens, GA 30601
P:706.613.3810
mforshee@athensbusiness.org

Tagged: brandt herndon, new president