ADEDC Announces Zachary Dykes as Vice President of Strategic Initiatives and Project Management

July 15, 2026

ALBANY, GA — The Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission announced today that Zachary Dykes has accepted the position of Vice President of Strategic Initiatives & Project Management, a senior leadership role focused on advancing the organization’s strategic priorities, business recruitment and retention efforts, product development, workforce initiatives, infrastructure coordination, marketing efforts, and special projects.

In this role, Dykes will work alongside the EDC’s leadership team to help plan, coordinate, and execute major organizational initiatives that support Albany-Dougherty County’s long-term economic competitiveness. The position aligns directly with the EDC’s mission to strengthen the community’s ability to attract quality investment, support existing industry, develop marketable sites and assets, and create opportunities for sustainable economic growth.

“We are excited to have Zachary join the team. His experience is a strong fit for where we are as an organization and where we are working to go,” said Jana W. Dyke, President & CEO of the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission. “He brings practical experience in project management, business recruitment, workforce development, site readiness, and regional collaboration all areas that are critical to our mission. As we continue to focus on competitiveness, execution, and long-term economic growth, Zachary will be an important addition to our team.”

Dykes joins the EDC with experience supporting transformational industrial growth initiatives across Coastal Georgia. He most recently served as Project Manager for the Development Authority of Bryan County, where he contributed to efforts connected to more than $5.3 billion in announced capital investment and more than 5,000 projected jobs. His work has included support associated with the Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America project and related supplier growth, workforce development, and strategic project coordination.

“This is an exciting time for Albany-Dougherty County, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to be part of its future,” said Zachary Dykes. “I look forward to working alongside Jana, The Board of Directors, existing industries, schools and community partners to build upon the existing assets and great work underway.”

“Zachary’s experience and skill set make him a strong addition to the EDC team," said Chris Hatcher, Chairman of the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission. "As the organization continues to focus on business recruitment, industry relations, site development, and workforce readiness, this role will strengthen our ability to execute our plan on behalf of Albany and Dougherty County. We are pleased to welcome Zachary and look forward to the impact he will have in this position.”

Zachary holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Economics from Georgia Southern University and is a graduate of the Georgia Academy for Economic Development. He is an active member of the Georgia Economic Developers Association and has served in leadership and community roles with the Rotary Club of Richmond Hill, United Way of the Coastal Empire, Bryan County, Regional Industry Support Enterprise initiatives, and Georgia Southern Miracle.