The Rome Floyd County Development Authority has selected Matthew Thomas as the sole finalist for its president and chief executive officer position.

Board Chairman Jimmy Byars announced the selection Monday.

Thomas currently serves as deputy director of the Cartersville-Bartow County Department of Economic Development, where he has worked since August 2023. In that role, he leads existing-industry efforts involving more than 210 manufacturing companies in Bartow County and has also been involved in major recruitment projects, including Hyundai SK Battery Manufacturing of America, Yakult America and Hanwha Qcells.

Byars said Thomas brings 16 years of economic development experience in North Georgia and described him as a strong fit for Rome and Floyd County.

Thomas was born in Dalton and has previously worked with the Cartersville-Bartow County Chamber of Commerce, the City of Alpharetta and the City of Canton. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in economics from the University of West Georgia.

Thomas said the position would give him an opportunity to join an organization with a strong record of attracting new investment while supporting existing businesses.

The position became vacant earlier this year when former authority president and Chattooga County native Spencer Hogg left to become chief of staff for Congressman Clay Fuller in Washington.

Under Georgia law, Thomas’ background information will remain available for public review for 14 days before the authority takes final action.

The Rome Floyd County Development Authority plans to hold a called meeting on September 8 at 9 a.m. to vote on Thomas’ appointment as president and CEO.