Randall Mathews, Deputy Director, brings nearly two decades of experience in emergency management and military operations. At the Chatham Emergency Management Agency (CEMA), Randall oversees planning, hazard mitigation, and operational functions, including managing the Chatham County Emergency Operations Center (EOC).

During EOC activations, Randall leads as the EOC Manager, coordinating responses to hurricanes, tropical storms, tornadoes, and critical incidents like the 2018 C-130 plane crash. In the 2024 hurricane season, Randall managed historic responses to Tropical Storm Debby and Hurricane Helene, demonstrating his leadership and dedication to the community during five Presidential Disaster Declarations (PDDs).

A Certified Emergency Manager, Randall received the International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) Technology & Innovation Award in 2018. He spearheaded the development of a social vulnerability-based damage assessment process, streamlining disaster response efforts and gaining recognition from emergency management partners nationwide. This process was critical in collecting damage assessment information, leading to two PDDs during the 2024 Hurricane Season.

Before joining CEMA in 2014, Randall served as a Marine Corps Infantryman (2006-2010), with deployments in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. During his service, he led over 700 combat patrols, honing his leadership and operational expertise.

Randall holds an A.A.S. in Homeland Security and Disaster Preparedness from Onondaga Community College, a Bachelor’s degree in Homeland Security and Emergency Management from Savannah State University (Magna Cum Laude), and a Master’s of Public Administration from the University of West Georgia (Summa Cum Laude).