Grady EMC officials announced Monday that its board of directors has appointed Joe Pandy as president and chief executive officer.

This leadership appointment is effective immediately and follows the decision that interim-CEO, John Long, returns to his role as outside operations manager.

“Pandy brings 48 years of experience to Grady EMC,” said Eric Cohan, chairman of the Grady EMC board of directors. “His vast knowledge of the industry will be an invaluable asset. We very much appreciate John Long’s efforts and his service to Grady EMC since his appointment last year. He led Grady EMC through Hurricane Michael, the most devastating storm to ever hit our system. He will continue to be a great asset to Grady EMC as he continues in his role as outside operations manager.”

Pandy holds a B.S. in mechanical and aerospace engineering from Illinois Institute of Technology and a master of business administration from Ohio University.

“I feel blessed to have this opportunity at Grady EMC,” Pandy said. “I try to live by the ‘Golden Rule.’ I hold my faith, family, friends and freedom in the highest regard.”