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Athens Council hires Darin Hamm as Tourism & Marketing Manager
Summary
The Athens City Council unanimously approved the appointment of Darin Hamm as the city’s Tourism & Marketing Manager after a panel reviewed 43 applications; Hamm said he looks forward to meeting local leaders, volunteers and residents.
The Athens City Council on Nov. 10 unanimously approved Darin Hamm as the city’s new Tourism & Marketing Manager.
Assistant City Manager Mandie Quigg told the council the position was posted Aug. 20, 2025, received 43 applications and was narrowed to three finalists. A hiring panel that included Quigg, Community Development Manager Donna Meredith and Human Resources Director Shawn Ruff interviewed candidates and recommended Hamm as the most qualified applicant.
“[I’m] looking forward to meeting local leaders, volunteers, and those who love this community,” Hamm said after being introduced. He did not provide a timetable for taking up specific tourism initiatives but said he was eager to begin outreach to local stakeholders.
Why it matters: the Tourism & Marketing Manager is tasked with promoting Athens to visitors, coordinating events and supporting economic development objectives. The council’s hire follows a national trend of small cities formalizing tourism efforts to support local businesses.
The council took no separate vote beyond approving the appointment during the regular session; Hamm’s introduction was part of the meeting’s staff presentation items. No budget amendment was discussed at the Nov. 10 meeting.
Next steps: Hamm will begin meeting with community groups and city staff to outline priorities and introduce himself to local volunteers and business leaders, the assistant city manager said.
