DeKalb hires ex-Atlanta mayoral spokesman for high-ranking job

Jabari Simama, who was director of communications for former Atlanta Mayor Bill Campbell, will join the administration of DeKalb County CEO Burrell Ellis as a high-ranking development official.

Ellis’ office announced the hiring Monday, saying Simama will oversee all development-related departments, including the Office of Economic Development, the Planning and Development Department and the Community Development Department.

His title will be deputy chief operating officer, and he will report to the county’s executive assistant, Keith Barker, who reports to Ellis, said Ellis spokeswoman Shelia Edwards.

After leaving the Campbell administration, Simama worked as vice president of community development for Benedict College in Columbia, S.C.