Southern Co. named Chris Cummiskey chief commercial officer of Southern Power, effective October 14. In this role, Cummiskey will lead the expansion of wholesale marketing activities, including business development, acquisitions and asset management for Southern Power.
Cummiskey is currently the commissioner of the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD). He has served in this role since January 2011, leading the state agency responsible for bringing jobs and investment to Georgia through global commerce, entertainment and tourism. Cummiskey previously worked for Southern Co., serving as an energy trader from 1996 to 1999.
During Cummiskey’s tenure at GDEcD, his team led more than 500 company locations or expansions in Georgia, creating more than 46,700 jobs and $8.92 billion in investment. Two of the most recent projects include Baxter International and Caterpillar, Inc., which together account for $1.5 billion in investment and 3,200 new jobs.
Prior to joining GDEcD, Cummiskey was a manager and director of energy and gas derivatives trading for companies including RWE Americas, Mirant and Mieco. He also served as a state director for U.S. Sen. Johnny Isakson, chief of staff for former Georgia House Speaker Glenn Richardson, and director of state relations for the University of Georgia.
