James McKissic leaving city government to join Urban League of Greater Chattanooga

James McKissic, director of the city of Chattanooga Office of Multicultural Affairs, stands in his office in City Hall Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2017, in Chattanooga.
James McKissic, director of the city of Chattanooga Office of Multicultural Affairs, stands in his office in City Hall Tuesday, Nov. 14, 2017, in Chattanooga.

The city of Chattanooga is losing its multicultural affairs director to the Urban League of Greater Chattanooga.

James McKissic, Office of Multicultural Affairs director for six years, is joining the Urban League as vice president and chief operating officer. He previously served as the Urban League's chief operating officer for nine years.

In a news release, Urban League President Warren Logan said 2019 is a "pivotal year" for the organization.

"As we set our sights on better serving this ever-changing, fast-growing community, I can think of no better addition to complete our leadership team," Logan said. "James brings a wealth of knowledge from his post at the city's Office of Multicultural Affairs and unparalleled leadership skills demonstrated during his previous role as our chief operating officer."

In his city position, McKissic developed the city's first supplier diversity program, which resulted in an increase of contracts with businesses owned by women, minorities and service-disabled veterans. Before that, he was Urban League's chief operating officer for nine years.

Chattanooga Mayor Andy Berke called McKissic "a true public servant who has shown an incredible amount of integrity, diligence, and heart" and "a tireless advocate for people in our community who otherwise may have lacked a voice."

McKissic said he's delighted to return to the Urban League, "an organization that has remained close to my heart."

"I look forward to continue empowering African Americans and other underserved individuals through this life-changing mission," he added.

McKissic will start his new position Thursday.

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