Forest Park, GA – September 11, 2024 – Ricky L. Clark, Jr. has established himself as a distinguished figure in municipal management, embodying a career marked by dedicated service and transformative leadership. With a robust background in public administration and a commitment to community development, Clark’s career spans several key roles that highlight his expertise and achievements.
Currently serving as the City Manager for Forest Park, GA—the largest municipality in Clayton County—Clark is responsible for overseeing all administrative functions within the city. His role involves managing the daily operations of the city, implementing policies set by the Mayor and City Council, and ensuring effective delivery of services to residents. Clark’s leadership has been pivotal in advancing the city’s strategic goals and fostering public-private partnerships to address community needs.
Before joining Forest Park, Clark served as the City Manager for Jonesboro, GA, from April 2017 to May 2023. During his tenure, he was instrumental in supervising all administrative decisions and regulatory policies, managing city records, and handling financial operations. His role extended to overseeing the Downtown Development Authority, where he promoted downtown revitalization and secured funding for development projects.
Clark’s extensive experience also includes his current position as an Executive Board Member of the Atlanta-Region Transit Link Authority (ATL), where he represents District 10. His contributions to ATL underscore his commitment to regional transportation and development, working to enhance connectivity across several counties, including Coweta, Fayette, Clayton, Fulton, and Henry.
In addition to his roles in Forest Park and Jonesboro, Clark has held significant positions such as Executive Director of the Downtown Development Authority of Jonesboro, City Clerk, and Assistant City Clerk in various municipalities. His expertise spans project management, economic development, financial accounting, and strategic planning.
Clark’s career began in Spalding County, where he served as County Clerk and Assistant to the County Manager. His early roles involved managing county board meetings, preparing official documents, and ensuring compliance with state laws. His diverse background also includes experience as a Civil Administrator with the Spalding County Sheriff’s Department and an Executive Business Manager for Helium 4 Music, demonstrating his versatility and ability to handle complex administrative tasks.
Clark’s proficiency in managing executive-level tasks, from financial inquiries to strategic team development, and his adeptness at coordinating domestic and international travel, have marked him as a highly capable leader. His contributions to local government and community development continue to resonate, reflecting his dedication to enhancing public service and fostering sustainable growth.
As Ricky L. Clark, Jr. moves forward in his career, his legacy of excellence in municipal management and community service stands as a testament to his enduring impact on the cities he has served.
