New GHCC V-P of Economic Development named

GAINESVILLE - Tim J. Evans has been named Vice President of Economic Development for the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce and the Gainesville-Hall County Economic Development Council. Evans, who has worked with the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) since 1994, replaces William Bagwell who has resigned to pursue other career opportunities. Evans will join the Chamber staff in mid-November.

"William has consistently demonstrated professionalism and a commitment to our community," said Greater Hall Chamber President/CEO Kit Dunlap."Through his experience, leadership and strong local and state relationships, our economic development efforts have made significant contributions to our community."

A native of Jefferson, Georgia, Evans, 33, is a Certified Economic Developer by the International Economic Development Council and former director of the Global Commerce Division of GDEcD. In this position he was responsible for business recruitment and retention projects, marketing Georgia's communities to key decision makers in the U.S. and internationally.

During his tenure, Evans orchestrated a staff of 30 project managers, and in 2004, recorded results of 143 project locations, yielding 10,800 new jobs and a $2 billion investment in Georgia communities. He also served as Assistant Deputy Commissioner for the International Trade Division and Director of Georgia Allies, created in1997 to further capitalize on the momentum of the Olympic games as a partnership between state government and private corporations and designed to lead economic development marketing efforts.

"I am excited about the growth that I can achieve in the economic development position with the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce and Gainesville-Hall County Economic Development Council," said Evans. "This position fits with professional and personal goals that I have been considering for some time."

In his new position, Evans will coordinate the community's economic development program and assist in recruiting new business to Gainesville-Hall County, work with existing industry, and coordinate projects with local and state business leaders and government officials.

Chamber President/CEO Kit Dunlap said,"Our community is very fortunate to have a highly qualified and professional economic developer as Tim Evans join our team. Tim's hands-on experience with the State of Georgia Economic Development Division will be a positive asset for us."

Evans is a graduate of Oglethorpe University with degrees in Economics and Political Studies and is an active member of several professional organizations including the Georgia Economic Developers Association, the German-American Chamber of Commerce, the British American Business Group and the Swiss-American Chamber of Commerce. Evans is also director of Georgia's participation in the Southeast-U.S. Japan Association. He and wife, Killian, plan to locate to Hall County in the near future.