Bárbara Rivera Holmes was recently sworn in as the 11th Georgia Labor Commissioner, bringing a fresh business perspective to the role and marking a significant milestone as the first Latina constitutional officer in Georgia history. Holmes, a former chamber and economic development executive with a proven track record of helping businesses thrive, promises to modernize Georgia’s unemployment system, cut red tape, and ensure businesses have access to the qualified workforce they need. “Commissioner Holmes speaks your language,” a statement from the Department of Labor declared, highlighting her experience guiding the Albany Chamber to Five-Star accreditation, placing it among the top 2% nationally through a focus on employer needs. Prior to her appointment, Holmes boasted an impressive resume, including experience as an award-winning journalist, earning Georgia Associated Press awards for excellence. She also served on the Board of Regents, overseeing Georgia’s 26 public colleges and universities, and co-chaired the Georgia Innovates Task Force, helping design the state’s technology strategy. Furthermore, she received a Congressional Commendation for her outstanding contributions to Georgia’s economic development. According to a release from the Georgia Department of Labor, “with her diverse background and unwavering commitment to fostering a thriving business environment, Commissioner Holmes is poised to lead the Department of Labor into a new era of efficiency and responsiveness, ensuring Georgia remains a premier destination for businesses and workers alike”.