CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
A native Jones Countian and former small business owner feels like her position at the Jones County/Gray Chamber of Commerce is a perfect fit.
Hailey Robinson’s new job has a long title. She is the executive director of the Jones County/Gray Chamber of Commerce, Tourism and Keep Jones Beautiful.
Her first day on the job was Sept. 28, and she has had no problem keeping busy.
The position of chamber director was previously part-time, but when the job became vacant, the Chamber Board of Directors got with the Jones County Commissioners and agreed to put the two part-time jobs for the Chamber and Keep Jones Beautiful together as one full-time position.
Robinson said the Not So Scary Grayberry Spectacular was the first event she was involved with, and she worked together with Main Street Director Ashley Robinson and Hannah Foval with First Baptist Church.
Robinson said she came in on the back end and just tried to help where she could, but it was an amazing event.
The Chamber board was already established and meets once a month. She said the members have been a lot of help.
She is working on getting the Keep Jones Beautiful Commission back up to full strength and meeting regularly. She said the members have been helpful with their experience, input and opinions.
Robinson said Brennan Jackson is the chairman of the KJB committee. He is the UGA Extension agent and is very knowledgeable with plants and agriculture.
The director said she grew up and has lived and worked in Jones County. She formerly owned her own business, Peach Palette Design, but had to shut down due to COVID-19.
She said she went back to working in insurance but was not happy.
“When this job came open, it was a perfect fit. It fits well with what I’m passionate about, making a difference in small businesses in Jones County and Gray,” the director said. “I’m proud to be entrusted with this position.”
Robinson has one son, Kolton, who is 10 and attends Gray Elementary School.
“I love it. He is right around the corner,” she added.
The director said the challenge of being successful with combining the Chamber and KJB positions is blending the calendars for the different events. She said her goal is to grow the KJB Commission so it will make a bigger impact on Gray and Jones County.
Robinson said former Chamber Director Haley Watson has been a huge help in her transition. She said Watson has helped her understand how the chamber operates and the administrative side.
The director said the next big event for the Chamber is the annual awards, which will be after the first of the year.
Robinson said she enjoys working with Main Street on events, and it is great to work with other community leaders. She said her main focus as chamber director is supporting local businesses with activities, such as networking nights and lunch and learn events.
“There is always room for growth in every business,” she said.
Robinson said being a former business owner helps her better understand the purpose of her position and ways she can help businesses.
“This job has been a complete change for me, but it’s been a lot of fun and nice to feel like I’m part of the community’s overall growth and development,” she said.
