By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | October 9, 2025

Mayor Andre Dickens has appointed Courtney English as the permanent Chief of Staff for the City of Atlanta, solidifying leadership within his administration as it advances major housing, infrastructure, and equity priorities. English, who had served in the role on an interim basis, will now officially oversee operations of the Mayor’s Executive Office, intergovernmental coordination, and the strategic rollout of citywide initiatives.

English has been a key architect of several high-impact programs under Mayor Dickens. He led the $5 billion Neighborhood Reinvestment Initiative, a sweeping plan to strengthen housing, infrastructure, and community development across Atlanta. He also helped secure the $60 million Homeless Opportunity Bond—Atlanta’s largest-ever investment in homelessness solutions—and spearheaded the Affordable Housing Strike Force, credited with delivering nearly 12,000 affordable units in less than four years.

Under his direction, the city launched Azalea Market, Atlanta’s first municipal grocery store, expanding access to healthy food and stimulating neighborhood revitalization. English also helped shape rapid housing projects such as The Melody and Ralph David’s House, providing critical shelter and stability for unhoused residents. His leadership on the Year of the Youth initiative expanded programs that have already reached more than 30,000 young Atlantans.

“Courtney English has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and a steadfast commitment to the residents of Atlanta,” said Mayor Dickens. “His strategic vision and dedication to public service will continue to guide this administration as we advance our mission of building a City of Opportunity for All.”

Alongside English’s appointment, Dickens named Greg Clay and Gabrielle Slade as Deputy Chiefs of Staff.

Clay, an Atlanta native and former Executive Director of Constituent Services, brings decades of experience as a nonprofit executive, community advocate, and public administrator. His past leadership includes service in five Georgia municipalities, including East Point and College Park. A graduate of Florida A&M University and the University of Kansas, Clay has earned recognition including the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s 40 Under Forty Award and President Obama’s Drum Major for Service Award.

Slade, a 19-year veteran of Atlanta city government and Spelman College graduate, most recently served as Deputy Chief Equity Officer in the Mayor’s Office of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. Her tenure includes five years in legislative affairs, 20 successful city annexations, and leadership in the Department of Parks and Recreation, which achieved national accreditation under her guidance.

“With the addition of Greg and Gabrielle to our leadership team, Atlanta is well-positioned to advance our mission of building a city that works for everyone,” said English. “Their expertise and commitment will ensure residents and neighborhoods remain at the heart of everything we do.”

A national search is now underway to fill the Chief Policy Officer position previously held by English. The new role will report directly to the Chief of Staff and help coordinate the administration’s policy and strategic initiatives across departments.

Please consider supporting open, independent journalism – no contribution is too small!