A Flowery Branch man has been named director of the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency.

Homer Bryson takes over for Jim Butterworth, a Habersham County native, on Dec. 1.

Bryson’s appointment was announced Monday by Gov. Nathan Deal.

He has served as the commissioner of the Department of Corrections for the past 20 months. Previously, he was the deputy commissioner of the Department of Natural Resources for four years.

In a statement, Deal said he was confident that Bryson would continue to be an effective leader in his new role.

Deal also paid homage to Butterworth, who previously served as adjutant general, leading the Georgia National Guard.

“I wish him the best in his future endeavors as he moves to the private sector,” Deal said.

Bryson previously served as a colonel in the DNR law enforcement division, working his way up from conservation ranger.

He is a member of the Georgia State Indemnification Commission and a trustee of the Peace Officers’ Annuity and Benefit Fund.

Bryson is a past president of the Peace Officers’ Association of Georgia. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Valdosta State College and a master’s degree in public administration from Columbus State University.

He and his wife, Lisa, have three children.