DeKalb County has hired a former manager from the Atlanta Development Authority to oversee its economic development office.

Charles Whatley also worked for 15 years as a consultant specializing in business models, strategic and marketing plans and market forecasts.

Whatley has an undgraduate degree in economics from Yale University and a master’s in economics from Georgia Tech. He will make $168,700 in his new post.

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Braves first baseman Matt Olson (left) is greeted by Ronald Acuña Jr. after batting during the MLB Home Run Derby as part of the All-Star Game festivities on Monday, July 14, 2025, at Truist Park in Atlanta. (Jason Getz/AJC)

Credit: Jason Getz/AJC