Georgia's Governor Brian P. Kemp is shifting the pieces of his legal team with the announcement of new appointments and a departure. Sam Hatcher is stepping up as the state's new Executive Counsel, with Kemp expressing confidence in the new leadership to continue making Georgia an ideal place for families. The reshuffle comes as the previous Executive Counsel, Kristyn Long, transitions to a new position with the Georgia Hospital Association, starting February 14.

The Governor's team is undergoing a revamp, with Christine Hayes and Rachel Byers staying on as Deputy Executive Counsel and Associate Executive Counsel, respectively. Evan Meyers has parted ways with Kemp's office at January's end after more than three years. On these announcements, a statement released on the Governor's official website quotes Kemp saying, "Marty, the girls, and I are excited to welcome Sam to this leadership role as Executive Counsel and for the continued service of the entire legal team, which remains indispensable to my office and the success of this administration."

Sam Hatcher brings to the table his experience in both private practice and state government. With expertise in securities litigation, antitrust law, and government procurement, Hatcher is no stranger to Georgia's legal landscape. Hatcher, a Dartmouth College and University of Georgia alumnus, previously served as Deputy Executive Counsel before being promoted.

Remaining in her role, Deputy Executive Counsel Christine Hayes holds a political science degree from the University of Florida and a law degree from Emory University. Rachel Byers continues her duties as well. They've collectively been part of the government's initiatives to streamline regulations and improve legislation – a process Kemp attributes to helping "hardworking Georgians," according to the Governor's official website.

Regarding the departures, Kemp offered his gratitude in the official release: "We also want to thank Kristyn for her years of service and leadership at a time when our state faced unprecedented challenges. Her intellect, skill, and countless hours of relentless work through multiple roles -- some of which she filled simultaneously -- helped our state weather many storms, both literal and figurative. We are happy to congratulate her on this new chapter and wish her and her family all the best in the coming years. We also want to thank Evan for his years of service and sacrifice, improving legislation and helping us streamline agency regulations and cut red tape so hardworking Georgians don't have to worry about government negatively impacting their lives or businesses. As his family moves to be closer to their loved ones, we wish them well in their next steps."