Ben L. Harbin

Senior Advisor

Atlanta
T +1.404.946.9846
F +1.404.459.5734

Overview

Ben Harbin has substantial experience working in the government relations industry, establishing himself as a seasoned professional in the areas of state and local politics, policy analysis, government, and crisis communication.

Having served as a state representative in the Georgia General Assembly for over 20 years, including six years as chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, he has developed numerous policies and obtained considerable knowledge in a variety of areas, including economic and business development, education, environment and sustainability, healthcare, public and private partnerships, public safety, and others.

In addition to his legislative knowledge, Ben is able to draw from his experience as a business consultant, as well as his educational background, to bring a corporate perspective to his clients' initiatives.

Experience

  • As House Appropriations Chairman, balanced Georgia's state budget during the Great Recession while maintaining tax rates and retention of AAA bonds.
  • Served as a State Representative in the Georgia General Assembly for over 20 years, holding a variety of leadership roles to enact policy changes in the areas of public health, telecommunications, technology, tax, and more.

Recognitions and Memberships

Recognitions

  • National Coalition for Capital: Champion of Small Business Award (2011)
  • Georgia Chamber of Commerce: Legislator of the Year (2009)
  • The Georgia Alliance of Community Hospitals: Legislator of the Year (2008)
  • Association of County Commissioners: Legislative Award
  • Mercer University: Honorary Doctorate of Law

Memberships

  • Georgia Professional Lobbyists Association

Community

  • Georgia Music Foundation: Board of Directors, Secretary/Treasurer (2015 to present)
  • Civic Affairs Foundation of ACCG: Board of Directors (2016 to present)

Services

Prior Positions

  • The Southern Group - Georgia: President (2015 to 2019)
  • Business Consultant, Self-Employed (2012 to present)
  • Georgia General Assembly: State Representative (1995 to 2015)

Admissions

  • [Not an Attorney]

Education

  • M.B.A., International Business, Mercer University, Stetson School of Business and Economics
  • Georgia Military College, Graduate of Distinction