January 29, 2015 – The Georgia Watch board of directors today named Liz Coyle as executive director, effective February 1. Coyle had been serving as acting executive director since January 2014, when then executive director Elena Parent went on leave of absence to run for the State Senate. Upon Parent’s election to Senate District 42 (D-Atlanta) in November, the board conducted a search to identify the new leader.
“Liz has played a vital role in ensuring the success and stability of Georgia Watch since taking the helm last year,” said chair of the Georgia Watch board Ray Carpenter. “Following an extensive search process, the board confirmed that Liz will continue effectively leading the organization to achieve its mission.”
Coyle joined the Georgia Watch team in 2012 and became deputy director in 2013. She brings to her position more than 25 years of experience as a non-profit manager, communications professional and grassroots advocate. Previously, she was director of community education for PEDS, a nonprofit advocacy organization dedicated to making metro Atlanta safe and accessible for all pedestrians.
A champion of community causes, Liz has served in numerous volunteer roles as a neighborhood leader and advocate for children. Currently, Liz is chairman of the Historic Fourth Ward Park Conservancy board. Additionally, Liz was the citizen representative on the board of directors of Atlanta BeltLine, Inc. from September 2006 to August 2009.
“I am honored the board selected me for this position,” Coyle said. “I am excited to continue leading a dedicated team that works tirelessly every day to create a Georgia that is a model for consumer protection.”
Founded in 2002, Georgia Watch is a statewide consumer advocacy organization whose mission is to empower and protect Georgia consumers on matters that impact their wallets and quality of life. Through education, advocacy and policy development, Georgia Watch works to influence public policies that positively impact consumers, safeguard consumer protections in the area of personal finance, promote access to safe and affordable healthcare, encourage fair utility rates and renewable energy options, protect the right to trial by jury and promote access to the courts.