FORSYTH COUNTY — Forsyth County has hired a new director to lead its parks and recreation department.

In a news release, the county announced it had tapped Jim Pryor, who most recently served in a similar capacity for Brunswick County, N.C.

Pryor will succeed Jerry Kinsey, who retired in July after 29 years as director. Pryor’s first day in Forsyth will be Oct. 13.

Pryor, who has more than 17 years of experience in the parks and recreation profession, will direct the operational and managerial activities in addition to the strategic planning involved in all aspects of the department.

“We’re excited that we have found Jim and we welcome Jim to join us here in Forsyth County,” said Deputy County Manager Tim Merritt. “And we think he brings a lot of capabilities, knowledge [and] experience to the job, and we think that it will help us improve the park and rec program here in Forsyth.

Pryor has extensive knowledge of the parks accreditation process and is a certified visitation chair for the Commission for the Accreditation of Parks and Recreation Agencies.

“Jim has been involved in the park and rec agency accreditation process,” Merritt said. “Several times in his career he has chaired those accreditation visits. He’s well informed with accreditation. He brings a very broad base of experience to us.”

Pryor holds a master’s degree in sports management and leisure services and is a certified parks and recreation executive and certified parks and recreation professional.

In a statement, County Manager Doug Derrer added that Pryor will “oversee the preparation and management of the budget, supervision of personnel, development of departmental goals and objectives.”

Pryor also will evaluate “the efficiency and effectiveness of department operations, provide services focused on quality and high customer service, and coordinate provisions of a comprehensive recreational program for the community,” according to Derrer.