PRESS RELEASE

ATLANTA – (Sep. 9, 2025) – Pond & Company (“Pond”), an industry leader in engineering, architecture, planning, and construction management services, is pleased to welcome Ricky L. Clark, Jr. as Client Manager, Metro Atlanta. In this pivotal role, Clark will drive transformative growth initiatives across Metro Atlanta, leveraging his extensive experience in public administration, city management, and community development to deepen Pond’s partnerships and amplify its impact across the Southeast. 

Clark most recently served as City Manager for the City of Forest Park, Georgia, where in just two years he directed more than $150 million in capital projects – from downtown revitalization to major infrastructure upgrades – while strengthening intergovernmental collaborations and creating sustainable frameworks for community growth. His leadership was defined by relentless focus on transparency, fiscal stewardship, and legacy-building that positioned Forest Park as a model for municipal transformation. 

“Ricky brings the kind of executive-level insight and community-first mindset that aligns perfectly with our mission at Pond,” said Grady Smith, Senior Vice President at Pond. “His deep understanding of public sector operations and proven track record of transformational leadership will be instrumental as we continue expanding our partnerships with local governments across the Southeast.”

“Ricky understands what local governments need because he has been in their seat,” said Melissa Phillips, Local Government Market Director at Pond. “That perspective will make us an even stronger partner to our clients as we work together to shape the future of Metro Atlanta communities.”

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Clark’s influence extends across the region. He serves on several boards, including the Atlanta-Region Transit Link Authority (ATL) and the Aerotropolis Atlanta Alliance, shaping critical conversations around transportation, connectivity and regional economic growth. 

Clark has been recognized with multiple industry and community honors, including 40 under 40 Most Influential Men in the United States of America – a national distinction celebrating his leadership, innovation, and impact. Other recognitions include Atlanta Business Chronicle 40 Under 40, Atlanta Young Government Leaders YoungGov 40 Awards, Atlanta Healthcare Association Man of Excellence Award, the Clayton County Carl G. Rhodenizer Community Service Award, and Invest Clayton City Manager of the Year Award.

About Pond
Pond is a full-service consulting firm providing integrated engineering, architecture, planning, and construction management solutions to public and private clients since 1965. Our staff, located throughout the U.S. and globally, is committed to delivering tailored solutions. Recognizing that clients benefit the most when multi-disciplined expertise is leveraged, Pond builds teams based on client and project requirements, regardless of location, reinforcing our “One Pond” culture. We earn the trust that sets us apart.