Governor Brian P. Kemp has announced the appointment of Trey Bennett as the new Executive Director of the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA), effective November 16. Bennett will succeed Hunter Hill, who has led the agency since July 2022 and is transitioning to the private sector.
In his current role as General Counsel and Grants Division Director at the Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget (OPB), Bennett has overseen the administration of the $4.8 billion State Fiscal Recovery Fund, supporting numerous grant projects across Georgia. His tenure also includes service as Deputy Executive Counsel to Governor Kemp, where he played a key role in drafting and advocating for legislative measures and advising on the state’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to joining the administration in 2020, Bennett practiced law as an assistant district attorney and private litigator in Northeast Georgia. He holds a J.D. from the University of Georgia and resides in Hoschton with his wife and four children.
Governor Kemp expressed gratitude for Bennett’s service, stating, “Marty, the girls, and I are grateful for the years of dedicated service Trey has given to my administration, and we are proud to congratulate him on this new leadership role.” He also acknowledged Hunter Hill’s contributions, noting, “From his honored service in the U.S. military to his time in the Georgia General Assembly, he has made a significant impact on our state and nation.” ([gov.georgia.gov](https://gov.georgia.gov/press-releases/2025-11-13/gov-kemp-announces-new-gefa-executive-director?utm_source=openai))
GEFA plays a crucial role in financing energy, land, and water projects across the state. Since its inception in 1985, the agency has approved financial commitments totaling more than $5 billion to local governments, businesses, and nonprofit organizations. ([capitol-beat.org](https://capitol-beat.org/2022/05/hunter-hill-to-head-state-environmental-financing-agency/?utm_source=openai))
Hunter Hill, a former state senator and 2018 gubernatorial candidate, brought a diverse background to GEFA, including military service and experience in commercial real estate and wealth management. His leadership at GEFA was marked by efforts to enhance the state’s environmental infrastructure and financing capabilities.
Bennett’s appointment reflects Governor Kemp’s ongoing commitment to strengthening Georgia’s environmental and financial infrastructure through experienced leadership. As GEFA continues to support critical projects statewide, Bennett’s legal and policy expertise is expected to guide the agency in addressing the evolving needs of Georgia’s communities and natural resources.