Barnes Steps Down As Director of Economic Development Board

by Dwight Turner

Citing an opportunity to pursue new personal opportunities, Robert Barnes has announced his resignation as Executive Director of the Pulaski-Giles County Economic Development Board.

“Opportunities have been presented that I feel compelled to explore,” stated Barnes resignation letter. “The lessons and techniques learned while living and working in Giles County will be my guide during the balance of my professional career.”

Barnes has served as Executive Director of the Pulaski-Giles County Economic Development Board (GCEDC) since 1998. Since that time, he has worked with four expansions as well as six new industry locations. Additionally, he has managed the development of the new, full service 400 acre Industrial Park South; is currently overseeing the completion of the community’s second shell building; and has designed and implemented a unique, inventive and aggressive marketing plan.

Robert Barnes

Barnes has been working in economic development for over 14 years. In addition to his work in Giles County, his background includes working as the executive director of Hickman County’s Vision 21 Economic Development Association and as executive director of the Shelbyville-Bedford County Chamber of Commerce.

Barnes earned his Associates Degree in Business from Georgia Military College, as well as a Bachelors and Masters of City Management Degree from East Tennessee State University. He is also a graduate of the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute.

Barnes will be taking a position in Casper, Wyoming.