The Macon Economic Development Commission and the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce will host a luncheon to recognize local manufacturers on Thursday, April 30, 2015 at the Methodist Home for Children and Youth, 304 Pierce Ave.   This event is presented by Panaprint, and is also sponsored by Butler Automotive, Georgia Power Company and Navicent Health.

The keynote speaker for the luncheon will be J. Randy Jackson, Senior Vice President of Human Resources and Administration for KIA Motors Manufacturing Georgia, Inc.  Mr. Jackson is from Macon, a graduate of Jonesco High School who went on to graduate from the University of Georgia with a degree in Psychology, an MBA in business and a Juris Doctorate degree. Additionally, Jackson has his legal certification in Labor Law from the Institute of Applied Management and Law.

Prior to joining Kia, Jackson was employed with Toyota North America and Mercedes Benz USA and International, Inc.  At that time, he helped start up plants in West Virginia, Indiana, Missouri, Alabama, Mexico, and Europe.  Randy has been published several times in the National SHRM magazine for Human Resources Professionals, and is recognized as one the Top Leaders in his field around the country.

The purpose of this luncheon is to provide an opportunity for Middle Georgia manufacturers to network with others in their field, be recognized and to hear from an industry leader. The Georgia Department of Economic Development and the Technical College System of Georgia recognize manufacturers statewide during their Manufacturers Appreciation Luncheon held in Atlanta the second week in April.  The Macon Economic Development Commission and the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce have locally declared April as Manufacturers Appreciation Month and hold their luncheon during this time.

In addition, MEDC and the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce celebrate manufacturers through a social media campaign called #MaconMade. This April campaign features a different manufacturer from the Macon-Bibb County area each day during the month of April on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. In 2014, MEDC received a Gold Excellence in Economic Development Award for its #MadeInMacon social media campaign from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).

The media is encouraged to meet with Mr. Jackson at the Methodist Home before Thursday’s luncheon at 11:00 am.