Interviews for DAPC president ongoing
The interview process has begun to find a qualified candidate to fill the position of president of the Development Authority of Polk County.
The post will become vacant with the departure of Rachel Rowell, who recently announced her plans to leave after her husband accepted another job and the family made plans to move to another part of Georgia.
An all day Executive Session to fill Rowell’s post is scheduled Wednesday, July 20 at the Polk County Chamber of Commerce, 133 S. Main St., Rockmart. The first of two sessions was held on Tuesday, July 19 at the same location.
Finding a qualified applicant would assure that training for the new hire would be completed before Rowell leaves.
Karen Nissen, search committee, said the initial response to the job search was slow since many individuals appeared to be “established in their chosen career.”
Chairman David Williams said the search committee, excluding Nissen, includes Ray Carter and Britt Madden.
A short list – 5 to 8 people – was to be developed and interviews held to cut the list down to 2 or 3 before a final selection is made, according to Williams.
Rowell assumed her position July 30, 2013 and filled the post left vacant with the departure of Eric McDonald.
She said her arrival coincided with erection of the spec building in Cedartown North Business Park. The project is ongoing as prospects continue to arrive to see this available structure.
“We have welcomed many visitors who toured this industrial space,” Rowell said. “We now have a project seriously considering the spec building and an existing industry looking to expand.”
She also noted that filling the building continues to be priority and interest has heated up during the last several weeks.
Rowell said she would never forget the welcome, support and friendship she has received since her assumed her job duties.
“It has been a great learning experience for me and I will always remember the people of Polk County,” she said. “City and county officials, local leaders and board members have offered guidance and assistance.”
She said the mission of DAPC is to pursue new jobs, economic growth and the development in Polk through assisting existing industries with expansions, as well as recruiting business development aspirations and strategies of the community as defined by board members and economic development stakeholders from the public and private sectors.