ATLANTA – Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS) Chief of Staff Gerlda Hines has been named to the 2020 class of Leadership Cobb by the Cobb Chamber of Commerce, one of the most distinguished leadership programs in the state. Hines is one of 50 people selected to participate from the business and professional community in this year’s leadership class.

Ms. Hines, who serves as Chief of Staff for DHS, oversees the management of the Department’s Facilities, Georgia Gateway, Medical Director, Inspector General, Financial Services and Budget Administration. Additionally, she has served as Interim Commissioner and Chief Financial Officer for the Department. Hines has more than 25 years of financial management experience and more than 15 years in state government. She graduated from Loyola University in New Orleans with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting and is a Certified Public Accountant. She is a member of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Georgia Society of CPAs, Government Finance Officers Association and Georgia Fiscal Management Council.

“Ms. Hines has honorably served as our Chief of Staff and in various leadership roles throughout her career,” said DHS Commissioner Robyn A. Crittenden. “The Department is fortunate to have her expertise helping lead us in our efforts to strengthen the residents of our state. I know her wealth of knowledge and distinct voice will prove to be invaluable to the Cobb County community and the residents we serve each day.”

As part of this year’s leadership class, participants are introduced to a variety of viewpoints that illustrate the array of economic, political, educational and social factors at work in Cobb County.

About DHS

DHS, Georgia’s largest state agency, delivers a wide range of human services designed to promote self-sufficiency, safety and well-being for all Georgians. With a budget of $1.9 billion and more than 9,400 employees, the Department comprises three Divisions — Aging Services, Child Support Services and Family & Children Services.

About the Cobb Chamber of Commerce

As one of the most influential business advocacy organizations in Georgia and one of the top three chambers in the nation, the Cobb Chamber is dedicated to bringing the community and its leaders together to create jobs and strengthen the economy and quality of life so businesses and the community can achieve more. Leadership Cobb, presented by the Cobb Chamber, is a leadership development program that selects diverse, qualified individuals and provides a learning environment that enhances both personal and professional growth to benefit the community and its region.