Collins joins BRAC staff

Larry Collins has joined the staff of the Baton Rouge Area Chamber as director of business development, responsible for the eight parishes around East Baton Rouge.

Collins has more than 20 years experience in economic development, most recently serving as director, international services, for Louisiana’s economic development department.

He replaces Edie Michel at the chamber. Michel, who recently retired, spent the past three years working with business development groups in Ascension, East Feliciana, Iberville, Livingston, Pointe Coupee, St. Helena, West Baton Rouge and West Feliciana parishes.

Adam Knapp, president and CEO of the chamber, said Collins’ experience will be crucial to BRAC’s efforts to attract and retain jobs.

“Larry is a great addition to our business development team, especially as we expand our international strategy for foreign direct investment,” Knapp said in a statement.

Collins is a native of Baton Rouge and an LSU graduate.