The Cobb County Board of Commissioners has hired James L. Gisi as Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs Department director, returning to his former post effective Dec. 28.

Since 2007, Gisi has been executive director of the Georgia Recreation and Park Association.

Overall, he has served 26 years in various positions in parks and recreation, including this same position from 1996 to 2007.

Gisi holds an undergraduate degree in Recreation and Leisure Studies from The University of Georgia and a master’s degree in Public Administration from Valdosta State University.