BRAC Names Dirmann to Governmental Affairs Position
Former gubernatorial staffer to lead advocacy and special projects for regional EDO
Baton Rouge, La. (September 2, 2016) – The Baton Rouge Area Chamber (BRAC) today announced that Barker Dirmann has been named governmental affairs and special projects manager for the organization. Previously, Dirmann held positions within the Office of the Governor and other state agencies.
“We’re pleased to welcome Barker who brings a wealth of knowledge and state government experience to our professional staff,” said BRAC President and CEO Adam Knapp. “As we approach fall elections and next year’s fiscal legislative session, it’s critical that the voice of the business community is heard as we seek to improve the region’s economic competitiveness.”
In the role of manager of governmental affairs and special projects, Dirmann is responsible for managing special projects as they relate to regional economic competitiveness and quality of life, as well as BRAC’s governmental relations and advocacy efforts, with a focus on advancing national, state, regional and local government issues critical to economic development in the Capital Region.
Previously, Dirmann served as Director of Intergovernmental Affairs for the Office of the Governor, where he was responsible for working with local elected officials throughout the state on matters ranging from local issues and legislation to disaster preparation and response. In this capacity, he served as the direct liaison between the governor and local officials. Previously, he served as Director of Boards and Commissions, where he was responsible for all gubernatorial appointments to more than 300 state boards and commissions. He also served as Special Assistant to the Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals and as a Team Lead within the State of Louisiana’s Office of Community Development. Within the private sector, Dirmann worked in Constituent Services for The Shaw Group, where he worked with state and federal elected officials.
Dirmann holds a Bachelor of Science from Louisiana State University and earned a Juris Doctor from Southern University Law Center.
About the Baton Rouge Area Chamber
The Baton Rouge Area Chamber (BRAC) leads economic development in the nine-parish Baton Rouge Area, working to grow jobs and wealth and to improve the business climate and competitiveness of the region. Today, BRAC investors include more than 1,500 small businesses, mid-sized firms, large industry and entrepreneurial startups, as well as individuals and organizations that support business and economic development. In this capacity, BRAC serves as the voice of the business community, providing knowledge, access, services, and advocacy. More information is available at brac.org.