Barbara Rivera Holmes was officially sworn in as Georgia’s 11th Labor Commissioner on April 4th, becoming the first Latina to hold a constitutional office in the state. Governor Brian Kemp administered the oath of office, praising Holmes’ background and commitment to workforce development.
Holmes enters the role with a pledge to modernize the Department of Labor’s operations and strengthen its services. She emphasized a focus on enhancing job opportunities, building partnerships, and fostering economic growth throughout Georgia. With nearly 800 employees, the department is poised for a new direction under her leadership.
Before assuming the commissioner role, Holmes served as president and CEO of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce. Under her guidance, the Chamber earned Five-Star accreditation from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, distinguishing it among the top two percent of chambers in the nation. She also led the Albany Area Chamber Foundation, where she supported talent development, innovation, and workforce strategies that extended beyond traditional business circles.
Holmes’ previous roles include vice president of the Albany-Dougherty Economic Development Commission. She has also held appointments from past state leaders, including a seat on the University System of Georgia’s Board of Regents and co-chairing the Georgia Innovates Task Force. Her efforts have earned recognition from the Georgia Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Georgia Trend, and a Congressional Commendation.
A former journalist, Holmes received awards for her reporting from the Georgia Associated Press. She holds degrees in journalism and Spanish and studied abroad in Spain. Originally from San Juan, Puerto Rico, and of Cuban heritage, Holmes currently lives in Albany with her husband, David, and their daughter.
Governor Kemp highlighted Holmes’ capacity to link job seekers with employment opportunities across the state. First Lady Marty Kemp also noted Holmes’ track record of community advocacy and her ability to lead the Department of Labor in helping Georgians access available resources.
Holmes now embarks on guiding the Department into what she envisions as a period of transformation, emphasizing innovation, trust, and inclusivity in Georgia’s evolving labor market.
