The Cumming-Forsyth County Chamber of Commerce has named Alex Warner as project manager, existing industry for the business organization. The announcement was made by Robert Long, vice president of economic development for the chamber.

The existing industry position is new for the chamber and a result of the recent economic development strategy established through a partnership with the Forsyth County Development Authority, Forsyth County and City of Cumming. The chamber provides economic development services for the community and serves as the lead contact for existing Forsyth County businesses and new companies looking to expand their footprints.

“Existing businesses create approximately 75 to 80 percent of the all new jobs in any community across the country,” according to Long.  “Alex will be focused on meeting with companies who already have a
presence in Forsyth County as well as coordinating programs that will enhance the workforce of our area through the local school system and colleges. Economic development is a ‘people business’ and I
believe Alex has the skill sets required to establish a strong foundation for the chamber in this area.”

Warner is a graduate of Georgia Southern University with a bachelor’s degree in economics. He gained his customer service skills from working with SEI Group, a construction firm in the Atlanta area. He has also operated his own small business and served as a business banker with Regions where he hosted financial seminars for high school students and parents.

“Existing businesses and their employees are the heartbeat of a community,” according to Warner.  “Listening to current employers and learning of their needs in order to retain jobs and investments is extremely important to the economic vitality of Forsyth County. I look forward becoming a part of the economic development team.”

Other responsibilities for the position include managing the Manufacturing Society Council; coordinating the annual Manufacturers of Distinction and Leadership awards program and facilitating a National Manufacturing Day event where high school students tour existing manufacturers in Forsyth County to explore manufacturing as a career choice.

Warner and his wife Rachel have a daughter, Peyton, who will turn two in June.