Matt Harris Unanimously Appointed President & CEO of the Northwest Georgia Joint Development Authority
Rock Spring, GA — The Northwest Georgia Joint Development Authority (JDA) has unanimously appointed Matt Harris as its new President and Chief Executive Officer, representing Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade, and Walker Counties.
A former Principal and Coordinator of Innovation for Walker County Schools, Harris led Gilbert Elementary to national recognition by establishing Georgia’s first public school forest kindergarten and guiding the school to become both a state-certified STEM campus and a U.S. Department of Education Green Ribbon School. He also helped plan and lead Walker Launch Academy in partnership with Georgia Northwestern Technical College, creating a career-ready model that connects students directly to technical programs and local industry.
In the private sector, Harris brings hands-on leadership experience as a business owner and operator, complementing his deep background in education and community development. “I’m honored to serve in this new role,” said Harris. “My goal is to represent the people of Northwest Georgia with integrity—to negotiate on their behalf and work toward a prosperous region that retains its identity, strengthens its communities, and builds a future we can all be proud of.”
Harris is also a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and coaches’ athletes who compete in the UFC, applying the same discipline, focus, and perseverance that guide his approach to leadership and service.
“We (the Board) are excited about Mr. Harris coming to the development authority and the professionalism he brings to our area for economic development,” said Chairman Chip Catlett.
The Northwest Georgia Joint Development Authority is a regional partnership dedicated to business recruitment and expansion, site and infrastructure readiness, and collaborative initiatives that advance prosperity across Catoosa, Chattooga, Dade, and Walker Counties.