Fayetteville is clearly on the move, and with it former Fayette County Development Authority (FCDA) Vice President of Economic Development Emily Poole has been hired as the city’s new economic development director.
A lifelong resident of Fayette County, Poole previously worked with FCDA and as public relations manager at Allan Vigil Ford. Those experiences, and her knowledge of the city and county, serve as the foundation for her new job as Fayetteville economic development director.
“I wanted to join the team at Fayetteville because of the incredible opportunities our community has at this time,” said Poole. “We have seen so many incredible things happen here, and I believe we’re just beginning to scratch the surface. I’m honored to be able to serve this community, and hope that I can have an impact in some small way. We are a wonderful community, and I am so excited at what the future holds for us.”
Poole becoming a part of the Fayetteville team is significant for the city, said City Manager Ray Gibson.
“Emily has earned a solid reputation as an economic development professional in Fayette County, and we are glad to now have her working for the city of Fayetteville,” said Gibson. “Emily has joined our leadership team, and her talents and experience are already proving to be a good fit.”
In Poole’s mind, economic development is something that impacts not just businesses, but the entire community.
“Economic development is critical to the health and growth of every community, as it is important to create an environment where existing businesses and industry feel supported, and new businesses feel welcomed,” she said. “We want to create job opportunities for our citizens, and create a community in which people want to live and work, and where businesses and families can thrive.”
“I’m tremendously encouraged by all the growth and investment,” Poole said. “And I believe it will continue in a positive way.”
Poole in her new position will work with Assistant Director of Economic Development Brian Wismer, who will continue to work with the city’s Main Street program, with the Fayetteville Downtown Development Authority and on special projects.
Her knowledge of the city, its past and what is unfolding in its future gives Poole a comprehensive perspective on the city. Aside from the job, Poole said that, as a homeowner, she is personally invested in the community.
“I am a lifelong resident of Fayette County. Having grown up here, I’ve seen the community change in so many ways, which provides me the lens of historical background and experience with our community and its people,” she said.
“I truly love Fayetteville. I am passionate about making an already-wonderful community even better, and helping to build a better life for our residents. I’ve worked in this community for most of my professional career, and have had experience in working with a variety of industries both to support existing companies, as well as new recruitment projects. I’m pleased to bring my passion, background, partnerships and knowledge to the table to continue to grow Fayetteville,” Poole said.
Awarded Fayette County Young Professional of the Year for 2011, Poole has a record of community service and partnership. The 2012-2013 President of Young Professionals of Fayette County, Poole has in the past served on the board of the Fayette Chamber of Commerce and Main Street Fayetteville. Currently, she serves on the Board of Directors for Bloom, AVPride, and Fayette Senior Services. Additionally, she is a 2013 graduate of the Atlanta Regional Commission’s Regional Leadership Institute, and a 2014 graduate of Leadership Fayette.
Poole graduated from McIntosh High School in Peachtree City. She received a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Human Services and an MBA in International Business from Clayton State University where she was recognized with the “MBA Service and Leadership” Award for the Class of 2016.
