Bagwell named Vice President of Economic Development

William Bagwell has been named Vice President of Economic Development for the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce and the Gainesville and Hall County Economic Development Council. Bagwell has worked with the Chamber for the past two years as Vice President of Existing Industry and Government Affairs.



“Our community has been successful in attracting several new companies in recent years, and we have been fortunate that many existing companies have chosen to expand here,” Dunlap said. “We are well-positioned to attract new business and industry. William is well-qualified to handle our economic development needs.”



Through the course of his duties in existing industry and government affairs, Bagwell has been heavily involved in economic development initiatives. In addition to his regular duties, Bagwell will now oversee efforts to recruit new industry to the area.



“William has consistently demonstrated professionalism and a commitment to our community. With his experience, leadership, and strong local and state relationships, our economic development efforts will continue to be very positive,” Dunlap said.



“William has developed excellent consensus-building skills with the diverse leadership entities in our community,” said Richard Hagler of Barron & Brothers and Vice Chairman of Economic Development for the Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce. “He works toward the common goals of both the public and private sectors, so that we continue to grow in a prosperous way that is benefiting all.”



The Chamber is in the midst of a five-year economic and community development plan called the HALLmark Initiative. A major focal point of that effort is recruiting a variety of technology-related businesses and industries to further diversify the community’s economy.



In addition to being the region’s business, medical and education hub, Gainesville-Hall County is home to 47 Fortune 500 companies and more than 300 manufacturing firms.



Bagwell, 31, is a native of Hall County. He and his wife, Jennifer, have a one-year-old son. Bagwell is a 1993 graduate of Presbyterian College, where he earned a B.S. in Political Science.



Details, President/CEO Kit Dunlap or Vice President of Economic Development William Bagwell, 770-532-6206.