Mayor Dickens Appoints LaChandra Burks as Atlanta's Permanent COO

Mayor Andre Dickens has named LaChandra Butler Burks as Chief Operating Officer for the City of Atlanta. Burks has served as interim COO since May, and as Deputy COO for more than three years. “As our Administration nears the end of our third full year, City operations have drastically improved, crime is down and projects are moving faster—and LaChandra Burks deserves a lot of credit for those accomplishments,” said Mayor Dickens. “Not only is she a respected leader both inside and outside of City Hall, she has a record of public service that is rooted in a desire to deliver for the people of Atlanta. LaChandra is the most qualified person to serve as COO and I look forward to continuing our work together as we move Atlanta forward.

” Burks also served as former Interim Commissioner of the Department of Parks and Recreation, during which time she facilitated and oversaw key components of the 10-year masterplan, which serves as the roadmap for the evolution of parks, greenspace and recreation in Atlanta, adapting to the city's growing population and increasing needs. Additionally, she effectively managed the operation of 33 recreation centers and over 400 parks, ensuring they remained vibrant community spaces for Atlanta residents. “Throughout my career, I have always viewed every day as an opportunity to give back to the city that has given so much to me. Thank you to Mayor Dickens for this vote of confidence, and I look forward to the journey ahead in our work for the city we both love,” said COO LaChandra Burks. An Atlanta native, Burks brings a wealth of experience and a profound commitment to her role.

She has served under five previous Atlanta Mayors and has held key positions throughout the City of Atlanta and served as an elected member and Board Chair of the Atlanta Board of Education. Throughout her tenure, Burks has been instrumental in advancing public safety initiatives, including significant improvements to Atlanta Fire Rescue Department stations, operational enhancements at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and other human services. Her focus remains on addressing critical operational and infrastructure needs, particularly in public safety, public works and transportation. Burks began her career with the City of Atlanta as a clerk for what is now known as Fleet services, inputting service tickets. In addition to her current role, Burks' leadership extends to her involvement with significant city projects and organizations.

She was a founding Board Member for Atlanta Beltline, Inc. , and a former board member of Invest Atlanta. Burks holds multiple degrees, including a Master’s Degree in Business Administration and a Master’s Degree in Education.