The Douglas County Economic Development Authority continues to strengthen their team with the selection of Jonathan Lupo to serve as director of business recruitment. The announcement was made this week by Chris Pumphrey, executive director of the organization. The Chason Group conducted the talent search for the authority.

Lupo currently serves as an international project manager with the Louisiana Office of International Commerce, a position he has held since January 2015.

“The strategic plan developed by the development authority last year was the impetus for the addition of another experienced economic development professional to join the Douglas County team,” according to Pumphrey.

“Jonathan brings a level of expertise that includes project management, a clear understanding of industry sectors and a business acumen that is crucial for the position and our approach to economic development.”

Lupo has roots in the Douglas County community. He graduated in 2002 from Alexander High School and his parents have continued to reside in the area. After obtaining Bachelor of Science and Master of Public Administration degrees from Georgia College in Milledgeville, Georgia and a short stint as a tennis pro in Bakersfield, California, he returned to Georgia to work with the Georgia Department of Economic Development as a project analyst and later an international trade policy and special projects manager.
Lupo was recruited to join the Louisiana Economic Development team which took him to his current position in Baton Rouge.

“Georgia is a powerhouse in the economic development arena,” says Lupo. “And Douglas County is a part of that inspiration with the focused recruitment efforts on advanced manufacturing, professional
technology services and media & entertainment. The strategy that is being implemented is a large part
of why I want to join the EDA team here. There are clear goals outlined and I believe my expertise and
experiences over the past several years can add value to the process.”

Lupo, whose first day at the EDA will be September 24, and his wife Ashley are expecting their first child
in November. They plan to relocate to the Douglas County area.