This week, Georgia Governor Brian Kemp announced the appointment of Bárbara Rivera Holmes as Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Labor. She will be sworn into office on April 4th and will complete the term of Bruce Thompson, who passed away last November. Governor Kemp expressed pride in this historic appointment, highlighting Holmes’ proven success in economic development and education, and wishing her success in her new role.

Holmes expressed her commitment to creating opportunities and building stronger communities in her new role. She thanked the Department of Labor team for their hard work after Thompson’s passing. Former Governor Nathan Deal praised her experience in economic development and workforce issues, stating she would help keep Georgia a great place to live and work. Lt. Governor Burt Jones and Speaker of the House Jon Burns also congratulated Holmes, noting her significant experience and fit for the role.

Attorney General Chris Carr and Agriculture Commissioner Tyler Harper commended Holmes’ dedication and expertise in economic development. Other officials, including Insurance Commissioner John King and Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger, expressed confidence in her abilities to address the challenges facing Georgians. State School Superintendent Richard Woods emphasized the connection between education and workforce issues as important to the state’s future.

Holmes is currently president and CEO of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce with a background in economic development. Originally from Puerto Rico, she is fluent in Spanish and holds a double major in Journalism and Spanish from Florida Southern College.