Cobb Reporter

Cobb Young Professionals (CYP), the Cobb Chamber’s networking and development group for professionals in their 20s and 30s, announced the winners of the 2024 Next Generation Award at the Chamber’s August Marquee Monday event: Robert Carnes and Jennifer Peinado.

CYP annually recognizes the county’s top young professionals with this award. Nominees are individuals in their 20s or 30s who are active within their community, demonstrate leadership ability, and offer a unique perspective. Two winners are selected each year.

Robert Carnes, Marketing Manager at GreenMellen, is a distinguished marketing professional and published author. He has contributed significantly to marketing and community engagement, publishing three books on effective storytelling for individuals and organizations. Carnes is also a speaker at local universities and conferences.

Beyond his professional achievements, Carnes has made significant contributions through community service, particularly by assisting nonprofits and churches with marketing strategies. He serves on the board of directors for the American Marketing Association (AMA) Atlanta chapter, where he leads the mentorship program. His efforts include launching an online mentorship platform and being named the 2022 AMA Atlanta Volunteer of the Year.

At GreenMellen, Carnes has been instrumental in expanding services and client base, contributing to a 210 percent growth in recurring revenue. His leadership in GreenMellen’s Brighter Web initiative has further solidified his reputation as a forward-thinking leader.

Jennifer Peinado, Supervisor of Corporate Communications at Cobb EMC, has improved member satisfaction and engagement through her leadership style that inspires trust and loyalty. Her commitment to Cobb EMC’s core values exemplifies her as a next-generation leader.

Peinado has also been an advocate for the Hispanic community by increasing awareness of Cobb EMC’s services. She played a pivotal role in translating communications to Spanish, improving accessibility for Spanish-speaking members. Additionally, she launched Cobb EMC’s first employee resource group supporting women’s professional development within the company.

Outside of work, Peinado has served on the Ser Familia board of directors and contributed to various community outreach programs including Barbara Hickey Children’s Fund Diaper Day and Operation Warmth fundraisers.

Cobb Young Professionals is supported by Yearlong Presenting Sponsor Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. The Next Generation Award is presented by The Mazloom Law Firm LLC. For more information about Cobb Young Professionals or the Next Generation Award, contact Rebecca Chadwick at rchadwick@cobbchamber.org or 770-859-2368.

The Cobb Chamber unites innovative people through advocacy and initiatives to ensure that Cobb County remains a healthy place to do business. For more information visit www.cobbchamber.org.

The purpose of Cobb Young Professionals is to connect young professionals into future economic, social, and civic leaders through monthly meetings offering networking opportunities with other young professionals.