Georgia Tech has new chief communications officer. Jim Fetig, a retired military officer who has held leadership positions in government and corporate affairs, has been named an associate vice president and head of Institute Communications and Public Affairs. He assumed his new duties on Apr. 10.

President Wayne Clough said Fetig would be a strong resource for Tech as it moves forward with key initiatives.

"Jim has an impressive background in public relations and marketing and is eager to become involved in the planning and execution of a strategy that fits our goals for the future. We are excited to welcome him to our leadership team."

Working for the U.S. Army, Fetig has directed media strategy at the Pentagon and served as the special assistant to its Chief of Staff. In his last governmental position, he served as director of public affairs for the National Security Council at The White House. More recently, he has worked as vice president of public relations for Lockheed Martin and as vice president for media relations at Raytheon Company in Waltham, Mass.

Fetig's work in public relations has earned him national honors from professional societies. Sue Ann Allen, executive assistant to the president and chair of the search committee, said the group was swayed by his track record and organizational success.

"Jim Fetig's breadth of experience, effective management and leadership style and engaging demeanor make him ideally suited for the job," she said. "He brings a very strong corporate experience to our operation, and we are fortunate to have him on board."

In leading ICPA, Fetig's principal assignments will involve both communications and marketing. As the head of the central public relations function for Tech, the associate vice president reports directly to the president, serving as the spokesperson for the Institute and as its chief communications counselor.

He will also be responsible for developing Institute-wide communications strategies, driving implementation of communication initiatives, measuring the impact of those initiatives and collaborating to ensure strategic alignment of all communications activities.

A Six Sigma specialist, Fetig said he is eager to take on a new challenge.

"I was completely impressed with everyone I met at Georgia Tech and all that Dr. Clough's team has accomplished," he said. "The vision for the Institute is compelling as is the opportunity to join a world-class organization. I am looking forward to meeting and working with everyone on the faculty and staff."