The large Pinewood Forrest mixed-use development in Fayetteville continues to make news. With that was the Oct. 14 announcement that former Southern Ground CEO Rob Parker will bring decades of experience as an international expert to serve as president of Pinewood Forrest.
In his newly created role as president of Pinewood Forrest, Parker will oversee strategy, planning, financial management, development and ongoing operation of the groundbreaking “Live-Create-Play” Pinewood Forrest community adjacent to Pinewood Atlanta Studios, Pinewood Forrest said in a press release.
“Rob is a seasoned CEO with the perfect blend of experience in project management, entertainment, philanthropy, organization and leadership to take the helm of this vitally important development,” lead developer Dan Cathy said. “I look forward to working closely with Rob at Pinewood Forrest as we create a community that will continue the excellence of my home county of Fayette and the philosophy of place-making around the world.”
Parker has over 30 years of experience in organizational leadership on a local, national and international level. Parker worked closely with Fortune 500 CEOs, philanthropists, sports and entertainment figures, foundation leaders and government officials in the US, and around the world, according to Pinewood Forrest.
Parker previously served as CEO of Southern Ground, leading both the business and philanthropic efforts of country artist Zac Brown and Zac Brown Band. As part of that assignment he helped raise millions to build Camp Southern Ground. Prior to joining the Southern Ground family, Parker served as a Chief Executive Officer with Kiwanis International, Ronald McDonald House Charities and Boys and Girls Clubs of America, according to a Pinewood Forrest press release.
“I’m honored to join the Pinewood Forrest team that is creating a development not seen before in the Southeast, United States,” Parker said. “Dan Cathy and the team have put forward an inspiring and ambitious vision that I will work hard to turn into reality and build a successful live-create-play community.”
The Pinewood Forrest development team announced plans for its project in July 2016. Bill Lynch, project director of Pinewood Forrest said Parker will help ensure Pinewood reaches its goals and assembles a top-notch development team.
“We’re confident Rob has the connections and ability to recruit and lead a team of leaders who will build the environments and create the experiences that are uniquely Pinewood,” Lynch said. “This will enable us to continue to build on the momentum and progress we’ve enjoyed to date.”
