Georgia Governor Brian P. Kemp has made a decisive move in emergency management, appointing Lt. Col. Josh Lamb as the new director of the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS). Following the departure of Chris Stallings, Lamb is set to take the helm as the state continues to grapple with the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and other challenges. In a statement on the governor's office website, Kemp expressed confidence in Lamb’s abilities, stating, "I'm honored to welcome Lt. Col. Lamb to GEMA and thank him for stepping into this important leadership role that is critical to the safety and recovery of Georgia's communities."

Lt. Col. Lamb brings a wealth of experience, having recently served as Assistant Commissioner of the Department of Public Safety. During his tenure, which began on October 1, 2023, Lamb was directly responsible for overseeing several key areas, including Professional Standards, Human Resources, and Public Safety Support. His career in law enforcement began in 1996, progressing through various roles, from special agent with the Tri-Circuit Drug Task Force to key positions within the Georgia State Patrol. Lamb’s educational background complements his professional experience, with a bachelor's degree in justice studies and a master's degree in public administration.

Throughout his expansive career, Lamb has touched many corners of law enforcement and safety. Notably, he dedicated eight years as a member of the State of Georgia SWAT team and has also played roles in legislative matters like the distracted driving law. Acknowledging these achievements, Governor Kemp has placed his trust in Lamb to steer GEMA/HS forward, remarking on the importance of the director's role in the state's preparedness and response to disasters.

Josh Lamb is not just his titles and accomplishments; he's also a family man. He and his wife, Alison, have two daughters, Kenley and Karson, grounding him in the very fabric of the community he's pledged to protect. His experience extends beyond the state lines, with his recent role as the head of the 31st Georgia Law Enforcement Delegation to Israel. As Lamb prepares to assume this new challenge, the governor, along with the family, also conveyed gratitude to Mike Smith for his service during the transition and his continued leadership as GEMA Chief of Staff.