DeKalb County appoints Robert L. Gordon as Director of Public Works

DEKALB COUNTY, GA – DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson has announced the appointment of Robert L. Gordon as Director of Public Works, effective immediately.

Gordon brings more than four decades of progressive leadership experience in public works and fleet management to this role. He most recently served as Deputy Director of Fleet Management for DeKalb County, where he led countywide fleet procurement, maintenance, and lifecycle management operations, oversaw budget development and financial planning, and directed daily operations supporting critical public safety and infrastructure services.

“Robert Gordon is a proven leader with a deep understanding of the complex operations that keep DeKalb County running,” said CEO Cochran-Johnson. “His experience, institutional knowledge, and commitment to excellence make him exceptionally well-qualified to lead our Public Works Department as we continue to strengthen service delivery for our residents.”

Throughout his career, Gordon has overseen preventive maintenance and repair operations for more than 600 heavy trucks supporting Sanitation, Watershed Management, Roads and Drainage, and Fire Services. He has been widely recognized for his leadership and innovation, including being named American Public Works Association (APWA) Professional Manager of the Year and inducted into the APWA Public Fleet Hall of Fame. His accolades also include national recognition for energy leadership and lifetime achievement in government fleet management.

As Director of Public Works, Gordon will provide executive leadership and oversight of the department’s operations, personnel, and budget, including the divisions of Fleet Maintenance, Roads and Drainage, Sanitation, and Transportation. Additionally, he will advance strategic initiatives that enhance infrastructure reliability, operational efficiency, and customer service across DeKalb County.

Gordon holds an associate’s degree in Business Management and multiple professional certifications in public works management from the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for Clean Cities Georgia and is known for his collaborative leadership style and commitment to public service.