Mayor Appoints Frederick J. Yates to Serve as Columbus
Equal Business Opportunity Director

“Fred Yates’ years of management experience in City government, as well as in the private sector, are well suited to make sure that local businesses have a fair opportunity in all City contracting and to ensure that the City is there to help the many minority and female-owned companies in Columbus expand jobs for local workers,” said Mayor Coleman.

Yates has over 25 years of experience as a small business owner in advertising, public relations and as an electrical contractor. In addition, Yates worked in the office of former Secretary of State Anthony J. Celebrezze, the Ohio Senate and served as the first fulltime Communications Director for the Columbus Convention and Visitor Bureau. Prior to taking this position, Yates served as Assistant Administrator of Support Services in the Columbus Public Safety Department for approximately 4 years.  

Frederick Yates has been married to his wife Sondra for 38 years and has 2 adult children.

Director Yates oversees a team of dedicated specialists who are ready, willing and able to assist you as you seek procurement opportunities with the City of Columbus.