Chris Cummiskey was named Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Economic Development by Governor Nathan Deal, and joined the agency in January 2011. As Commissioner, he leads the state agency responsible for bringing jobs and investment to Georgia by recruiting new businesses and expanding existing ones, as well as by increasing tourism in the state. Commissioner Cummiskey also oversees the state’s work to grow international trade, the entertainment industry, and small businesses and entrepreneurs in Georgia.
Commissioner Cummiskey brings a deep background in business to his position. As a manager and director of energy and gas derivatives trading for companies like RWE Americas, Mirant and Mieco, he has worked in all corners of the country. His experience encompasses business development, marketing strategies, risk mitigation, and pricing strategies.
The Commissioner also brings to the agency a wealth of knowledge and intergovernmental relationships developed during his more recent roles as a senior director for Senator Johnny Isakson, former Georgia House Speaker Glenn Richardson, and the University of Georgia. As State Director for Sen. Isakson, he was the point of contact for all matters relating to Georgia’s economic development-related projects. Commissioner Cummiskey’s most recent role as Director of State Relations for the University of Georgia also entailed an intimate knowledge of economic development in Georgia.
Chris Cummiskey graduated from the University of Georgia with a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, majoring in Finance. He currently resides in Atlanta with his wife Rebecca.