The Metro Atlanta Chamber (MAC) announced today that Gregg Simon has been named VP of Economic Development. In his new role, Simon will lead the Project Development and Regional Partnerships team with responsibility for helping companies evaluate Atlanta for new and expanded opportunities and strengthening relationships with regional partners and site selectors.

“Gregg has done an exceptional job promoting the region as an ideal location for growing businesses,” said Brian P. McGowan, executive vice president and COO, Metro Atlanta Chamber. “His extensive experience helping companies expand and add jobs, and collaborative approach to recruiting new companies, is invaluable to our strategy to grow the region’s economy. He is one of the best economic developers in the country. 

Simon, who joined MAC in May 2011, previously served as senior director of Project Management working closely with partners to recruit leading companies, such as Mercedes-Benz USA, to the region.  He has also served as director of Technology Industry Development responsible for building Atlanta’s technology cluster in the areas of internet and network security, mobile communications, software development and engineering, transaction processing, and digital media and content.

Prior to joining MAC, Simon was Manager of Business Engagement for Invest Atlanta where he helped expand existing businesses and attract new ones to the city of Atlanta. During his 20-year career in economic development, Simon has worked in Massachusetts and New York covering the administration of tax and financial incentive programs, marketing initiatives for business retention and attraction, economic development policy creation and implementation, and special event planning.