Georgia Code Title 50. State Government § 50-7-2

(a) There is created the office of commissioner of economic development, who shall be executive office and administrative head of the department. The commissioner shall be appointed by and serve at the pleasure of the Board of Economic Development. The compensation of the commissioner shall be fixed by the board. The commissioner shall assist the board in the performance of its duties, powers, and authority, and jurisdiction as the board shall provide. The commissioner shall receive expenses, including mileage, as do other state officials and employees.

(b) The board is authorized to designate an assistant commissioner, a deputy commissioner to be known as the deputy commissioner for Rural Georgia, and such other employees as are necessary to carry out and effectuate this chapter.

(c) The commissioner is further authorized and empowered to reimburse authorized personnel of the department for the actual cost incurred in the pursuit of official business for all meals, taxis, parking, and the rental of automobiles when the use of such vehicles is less expensive or more efficient than other commercial transportation.