Jason Rubenbauer has been chosen to lead the Waycross-Ware County Development Authority. The announcement was made by Daniel Morris, Chair of the economic development organization and Community President for First Southern Bank in Waycross.

The Chason Group was retained by the authority to lead the executive search for the President and Chief Executive Officer. “Jason has been a part of this community for many years and understands the fabric of Waycross and Ware County,” according to Morris. “Members of the authority have spent great deal of time and energy behind our decision to select him to lead economic development initiatives here. His experience in operating a small business, accounting, managing local government operations, and economic development in south Georgia factored into our vetting process.” Rubenbauer most recently served as County Manager for Pierce County, a position he has held since April 2017.

His responsibilities included managing the daily operations of the county with 155 team members, budgeting, finance, purchasing, grants, facilities maintenance, public safety, information technology, policy development, and public relations. During his time with Pierce County government, Rubenbauer led the process to build a revenue reserve of $2.5 million.

“I look forward to being a part of the economic development team for Waycross and Ware County,” Rubenbauer said. “There is a great deal of potential for existing industry growth in the community as well as new business opportunities. I want to be a part of the solution to issues and help keep our existing customers pleased with the infrastructure and support systems already in place. At the same time, I plan to be a part of the marketing arm to new investors looking for locations.”

Other positions held by Rubenbauer include Dean of Health Sciences & Professional Studies, Bainbridge State College, Bainbridge, Georgia; Director of Business & Community Services, Coastal Pines Technical College; Accountant/CEO, Affordable Tax & Accounting, LLC, in Waycross; and Continuing Education Director, Okefenokee Technical College. He also served in the United States Navy as a Disbursing Clerk with the Surface Warfare Specialist designation.