The Fairfax County Economic Development Authority Commission named George D. Thomas as its next President and Chief Executive Officer.
Thomas brings more than 25 years of leadership experience across economic development, technology, infrastructure, investment attraction, workforce development, and public-private partnerships. His appointment comes at a pivotal moment.
“George Thomas represents the next generation of economic development leadership,” said FCEDA Commission Chair James Quigley.
Thomas's selection reflects Fairfax County's commitment to leading the industries expected to drive future economic growth, including artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, national defense, advanced computing and space commercialization.
As President and CEO of Connected DMV, Thomas built a globally recognized innovation organization, growing it from a volunteer coalition into a multi-million-dollar enterprise building next generation industry clusters to advance global competitiveness.
Before leading Connected DMV, Thomas served as a Partner at IBM and held senior roles at leading global firms, directing transformative initiatives in technology commercialization, smart cities, infrastructure modernization, economic development and industry cluster formation.
“Fairfax County stands at the center of extraordinary economic and technological change,” Thomas said. "Advances in artificial intelligence, quantum, energy, aerospace, defense, national security, and other key industries are creating new opportunities for innovation, investment, and growth.”
Thomas will begin his tenure in August. He succeeds FCEDA President and CEO Victor Hoskins, who departs after nearly seven years.