(ATLANTA) – Governor Brian P. Kemp today announced the appointment of Lieutenant Colonel Josh Lamb as the new director of the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS). Lamb will assume the role following the departure of former Director Chris Stallings.

"I'm honored to welcome Lt. Col. Lamb to GEMA/HS and thank him for stepping into this important leadership role that is critical to the safety and recovery of Georgia's communities, especially as we continue to rebuild from Hurricane Helene and other storms," said Governor Brian Kemp. "I know Lt. Col. Lamb is committed to that mission and will provide the leadership necessary to ensure our state is prepared to respond to disaster and proactively keep Georgians safe. Marty, the girls, and I also want to thank Mike Smith for his service during this recent transitional period and for his continued leadership as GEMA/HS Chief of Staff."

Lt. Col. Lamb brings extensive experience in public safety, emergency response, and law enforcement leadership. Most recently, he served as Assistant Commissioner for the Department of Public Safety, overseeing key operational areas including professional standards, human resources, public information, and legislative affairs. Throughout his distinguished career, he has held various leadership positions within the Georgia State Patrol, served as a SWAT team commander, and played a key role in major public safety operations, including the 2018 National College Championship Game and Super Bowl LIII.

In response to his appointment, Lamb expressed his gratitude and commitment to serving Georgia’s citizens.

"I am deeply honored to be entrusted with this responsibility of leading GEMA/HS," said Director Lamb. "Ensuring the safety, preparedness, and resilience of our state is a mission I take seriously. I look forward to working with Governor Kemp, our state and emergency management partners, and the people of Georgia to strengthen our ability to respond to disasters and protect our communities."

Lamb holds a master’s degree in public administration from Columbus State University and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy. He has been actively involved in law enforcement leadership training and international public safety collaboration.

Lt. Col. Lamb and his wife, Alison, reside in Georgia with their two daughters, Kenley and Karson.

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As part of the Office of the Governor, the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency collaborates with local, state and federal governments in partnership with private sector and non-governmental organizations to protect life and property against man-made and natural emergencies. GEMA/HS’s Ready Georgia website and preparedness campaign provides Georgians with the knowledge needed to effectively prepare for disasters. Go to gema.georgia.gov/plan-prepare/ready-georgia for information on developing a custom emergency plan and Ready kit.