Colin Tarbert
Chief Executive Officer
Colin Tarbert serves as Chief Executive Officer of the Downtown Investment Authority (DIA), where he leads efforts to revitalize and grow Jacksonville’s Downtown through strategic investments, partnerships, and development initiatives.
Tarbert brings more than 20 years of experience in economic and community development. Prior to joining the DIA, he served as President and CEO of the Baltimore Development Corporation (BDC), Baltimore’s economic development agency, where he led efforts to attract investment, support local businesses, and expand job opportunities.
He previously held senior roles in the Baltimore Mayor’s Office, including Deputy Mayor for Economic and Neighborhood Development. Earlier in his career, he served as a Senior Economic Development Officer for BDC and worked in real estate development in the private sector.
Tarbert holds a Bachelor of Science in Architecture and a Master of Architecture from the University of Maryland. He earned the Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) credential from the International Economic Development Council in 2024. His civic involvement includes board roles with nonprofit and public-private organizations focused on urban development, economic growth, and community investment.