The Development Authority of Washington County has announced plans to approve Jayson Johnston as the new executive director of their economic development organization.

Johnston has served as President of the Harris County Chamber of Commerce since 2012.

“The profile of the Harris County Chamber of Commerce has grown through Jayson’s vision and leadership” said Kevin Wiley, current Chair of the Harris County Chamber Board.

During his tenure, the Chamber has transformed the Annual Meeting into a celebrated event, partnered with other Chambers’ of Commerce on multiple regional events, and created a new major fundraiser with the Mountain View Classic Golf Tournament, just to name a few of his accomplishments.  Johnston has served Harris County in more than just his role at the Chamber of Commerce.  He is currently serving on the Harris County Development Authority, the Harris County Airport Authority, the Park Elementary Local School Council, FOCUS Board, Friends of the Library Board, and he is a Past President of the Harris County Rotary Club where he remains extremely active.

Seventeen candidates considered for the Washington County executive director’s position, 13 were from Georgia.  Other states represented in the mix included Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Virginia.

“Jayson has the experience, knowledge and commitment to lead our community to the next level in economic development,” according to Mike Sheppard, chair of the Development Authority.  “Building upon the solid foundation put in place by Charles over the past few years, I am excited about the opportunities for Washington County in the future.”
                                                                                            
“Much like Harris County, Washington County is the type of area my family and I want to live in at this season in our lives,” Johnston said.  “We look forward to this next chapter in our lives but will miss Harris County greatly, especially the people who make up this wonderful community and region.”
 
Johnston will officially begin his new role in Washington County on September 5.  He has agreed to serve in his current role as Chamber President until September 1.