On April 4th, Bárbara Rivera Holmes was sworn in as Georgia’s 11th Labor Commissioner, becoming the first Latina to hold a statewide constitutional office in the state. Governor Brian Kemp administered the oath, commending Holmes for her work in economic development.
“It is my privilege to serve as Georgia’s Labor Commissioner and as our state’s first Latina constitutional officer,” Holmes said. “I will put Georgians first and continue creating opportunities by tapping our state’s talent pool, building alliances that drive job growth and working tirelessly to enhance Georgia’s competitiveness as the No. 1 state for business.”
Holmes brings years of leadership experience, most recently serving as president and CEO of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce. Under her guidance, the chamber earned top national accreditation and expanded programs supporting talent development and innovation.
Her background includes service on the Board of Regents of the University System of Georgia and the Georgia Rural Development Council. A former journalist, Holmes holds degrees in journalism and Spanish and has been recognized with awards for both her reporting and economic development work.
Governor Kemp expressed confidence in Holmes’ ability to connect Georgians with employment opportunities across the state. First Lady Marty Kemp noted her commitment to serving all communities.
