Working since 1987 at the interface between planning analysis and policy implementation, Jeff Rader is widely recognized for shaping public sector and community organizations for greater impact by integrating comprehensive planning principles into major decisions in metropolitan Atlanta.

Focusing on infrastructure, environmental and development policy, the expert administration of the public trust, and influencing business, public interest, and governmental policymakers, Jeff is exemplary of a planner and public official assuming direct responsibility for change. In private and public sector roles, and in elected office, his signature achievement is advancing a clear, inclusive public interest in response to challenges imposed by rapid growth and a changing world, pursuing that vision with an expert understanding of the mechanics of governance.

Jeff is a Fellow of the American Institute of Certified Planners, a German Marshall Fund Fellow, recipient of a Common Cause Democracy Award, and a Citizen Action Citizen of the Year. Over his career, he served as a staff planner at Cobb and Fayette Counties, VP at the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce and Greater Atlanta Homebuilders, Planning Director at GRTA, Executive Director at Regional Business Coalition, and as a consultant.  Elected in 2006, he served 16 years on the DeKalb County Commission until retirement in 2022.

Jeff earned a 1981 AB in Economics at the University of Georgia and a 1987 Master's of City Planning from the Georgia Institute of Technology.