Sydne Smith

Sydne Smith is Chief Operating Officer of the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), where she leads strategic policy and serves as principal point of contact for external partners. 

Prior to joining GDEcD in this capacity in 2024, Sydne was Director of Governmental and Community Affairs for three years at Oglethorpe Power, a Georgia economic development partner and one of the nation’s largest power supply cooperatives, providing energy to 38 of Georgia’s Electric Membership Corporations (EMCs). Ms. Smith also served in government relations and strategic policy roles in the U.S. Senate, the Georgia Department of Agriculture, and GDEcD. She began her career as a member of the legislative affairs staff to then-Governor Sonny Perdue. 

A native of Waycross, Georgia, Sydne earned her bachelor’s degree in agriculture communications with a minor in Spanish and a master’s degree in public administration, from the University of Georgia. She was recognized with the UGA College of Agriculture Alumni Young Achievement Award for outstanding achievements in the field, which is also Georgia’s No. 1 industry. She also served as a member of the Preschool at Peachtree Road UMC Board of Directors, the Georgia 4H Foundation Board, and a previous College of Agriculture Alumni Association board member. Sydne and her husband Malcolm live in Atlanta with their two daughters and son.