THOMASVILLE — The Thomasville-Thomas County Chamber of Commerce executive director has resigned from the position to take a job with the City of Thomasville.

Lauren Radford will assume the position of city director of engagement and outreach. She will begin work with the city on May 8.

“I am excited and see this as a good opportunity to continue to serve the citizens of Thomasville,” Radford said, adding that the position is new.

“We are very pleased that (Ms.) Radford has accepted the position with the city. She is a talented communicator whose work with the Chamber of Commerce and prior experience working with community organizations and economic development will be invaluable in her role with the city,” said Lynn Williams, assistant city manager-communications and marketing.

Williams said the position had previously been called public information officer, but recently was revamped to a more collaborative role.

“We have modified the role to focus more on creating opportunities for dialogue, information sharing, partnership and action with residents, businesses and organizations,” Williams said.

Radford will oversee the city’s efforts to connect community organizations, businesses and residents with the city on mutually beneficial initiatives. Specifically, Radford will be responsible for developing and implementing a plan to boost the number of engaged residents and business leaders in Thomasville, as well as the positive impact residents can have on key city challenges.

Radford’s last day at the Chamber is May 5.

“I’m very pleased about the opportunity to serve the community in this new role,” Radford said. “The city has many exciting and challenging initiatives ahead for which community outreach and input are vitally important. I look forward to the opportunity to being a part of the city’s efforts to better engage community in the future.”

A native of Brooks County, Radford is a graduate of Georgia State University. She has served as chamber executive director since 2013.

Radford, who is married to John Futch, has two children.

Senior reporter Patti Dozier can be reached at (229) 226-2400, ext. 1820