Following a national search over the past few months, the CSA Board of Directors voted unanimously last week to appoint Karen Handel as the organization’s next President. Handel succeeds Jim Moody, who announced his desire to move into consulting last year.
CSA Board Member Will Badger and CSA Member Michael Townsend co-chaired the Search Committee. CSA Board Chairman Ann Marie Miller, Chair-Elect Westley Harbin, Ida Ross Hicks, and George Weatherly also served on the Search Committee. Sterling Martin Associates led the executive search for CSA.
“The Search Committee prioritized several key traits for the next President, including exceptional leadership and strategic planning skills, financial and business acumen, and the ability to see the big picture while ensuring execution and results,” said Badger. “CSA has been fortunate to have had outstanding leadership over the years. We wanted a President who would build on our past success while bringing fresh ideas to help us move to the next level.”
“The Search Committee and the full Board believe that Karen Handel brings the experience, vision and new thinking to lead us forward to even greater success,” added Miller. “She has a diverse background from which we will benefit, along with a genuine interest and understanding of our industry and the important role that family-owned enterprises play in the economy.”
“I am beyond excited about this opportunity with CSA to support independent dealers across Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Oklahoma in one of the most dynamic sectors of our economy. I look forward to meeting everyone, hearing your thoughts and input, and being part of the CSA family for many years to come.” said Handel.
Handel most recently served as President of the Carroll County Chamber of Commerce and its sister entity Carroll Tomorrow where she led membership programming and economic development, helped create thousands of jobs, and executed $5.4 Million capital campaign. She served as President of the North Fulton Chamber of Commerce and has held various executive roles in the corporate world.
Handel has also held numerous government and elected positions. She was a member of the US House of Representatives from 2017 to 2019. Other elected offices include Georgia Secretary of State and Chairman of the Fulton County Board of Commissioners. She also served as Deputy Chief of Staff to Governor Sonny Perdue.
Current CSA President Jim Moody announced his departure earlier this year. He is remaining on board through the end of 2023 to assist with the transition.
Note: This article was originally published in the Construction Suppliers Association (CSA)’s August 2023 E-Newsletter, Frame Work. Visit https://www.gocsa.com/ to learn more.