Meet Our Team
A Knowledgeable Team To Serve You!
When you're prepared to start or expand your business in the Heart of Eastern North Carolina, you can depend on the expertise of the proficient team at the North Carolina Economic Development Region. With vast industry experience and a deep understanding of the local economic environment, our devoted team is committed to offering you thorough guidance at every stage.
Mark Pope
President
Mark Pope, a native of Lenoir County and a graduate of East Carolina University has over 20 years of experience in the banking industry. He became the economic director of his home county in 2005 and was appointed president of the Wayne County Development Alliance in 2018. Since 2020, he has served as the North Carolina Global TransPark Economic Development Region president.
Throughout his career, Mark has strongly advocated economic development, contributing to various organizations such as the North Carolina Economic Development Association, the Military Affairs Committee, the North Carolina Southeast Partnership, the Highway 70 Corridor Commission, and the EDPNC Advisory Council.
Mark has committed his career to promoting local, regional, and state economic growth.
Trey Cash
Chief Operating Officer
Trey Cash, a native of Greene County, serves as Chief Operating Officer for the North Carolina Global TransPark Economic Development Region, helping lead regional economic development efforts for Greene, Lenoir, and Wayne Counties and the NC Global TransPark. In this role, he supports industrial recruitment, assists existing employers, oversees regional operations, and works with partners at the local, state, and national level to bring jobs and investment to Eastern North Carolina.
Trey has more than 13 years of experience in local and state government and previously served as Director of Economic Development for Greene and Lenoir Counties. He is a North Carolina Certified Economic Developer and a Certified Workforce Developer. He holds a Master of Business Administration from Fayetteville State University, a Master of Science in Leadership from Grand Canyon University, and a Bachelor of Science in Emergency and Disaster Management from Western Carolina University. He is also completing advanced training through the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute.
Trey serves on the Board of Directors for the North Carolina Economic Development Association. Trey is a graduate from Leadership North Carolina Class 31.
Julie Graham
Wayne County Existing Industry Director
Julie Graham serves as the Existing Industry Director for Wayne County and the Business Manager at the Wayne County Development Alliance, where she plays a pivotal role in fostering economic growth and supporting local industries. Julie is dedicated to enhancing the industry environment in Wayne County by providing strategic guidance and resources to existing industries.
Julie brings years of experience in economic development and business management to her role. Her career is marked by a commitment to building strong relationships with industry leaders and stakeholders, ensuring that the needs of local businesses are met with innovative solutions and support. Her expertise in workforce development, infrastructure improvement, and policy advocacy has been instrumental in driving sustainable growth in the region.
Julie earned her degree in Business Management and Accounting from the University of Mount Olive, laying a solid foundation for her successful career in economic development. Her dedication to community engagement and economic empowerment is reflected in her active involvement in various local and state economic boards and committees.
Under Julie's leadership, the Wayne County Development Alliance has launched numerous initiatives focused on retaining and expanding local businesses, creating new job opportunities, and strengthening the county's economic resilience. Her strategic vision, collaborative approach, and recognized leadership make her an invaluable asset to the ongoing success of Wayne County's economic future.
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Lauren Ellis
Greene & Lenoir County Existing Industry Director
Lauren Ellis serves as the Existing Industry Director for Greene and Lenoir Counties with the NC Global TransPark Economic Development Region, where she works directly with local employers and economic development partners to support business retention, expansion, and long-term growth. Lauren is committed to strengthening relationships with existing industries and ensuring businesses have the resources needed to succeed in Eastern North Carolina.
Lauren brings a strong background in economic development and marketing to the region. Prior to joining us, she served as Marketing Manager at Charleston County Economic Development in South Carolina, where she supported both business development and existing industry initiatives. Her experience includes strategic marketing, stakeholder engagement, and collaborative support for growing industries.
Lauren is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies from Furman University. Her educational background provides a strong foundation in economic development strategy, communication, and community focused growth.
Through her leadership and collaborative approach, Lauren works to encourage sustainable economic growth across Greene and Lenoir counties by supporting existing businesses and fostering long-term partnerships. Her experience, dedication, and passion for serving local industry make her a valuable asset to the NC Global TransPark Economic Development Region and the communities it serves.
Gracie Herring
Marketing and Communications Manager
Gracie Herring serves as the Marketing and Communications Manager for the NC Global TransPark Economic Development Region, where she leads storytelling and strategic communication efforts that support industrial recruitment, existing industry, and regional initiatives across Greene, Lenoir, and Wayne Counties and the NC Global TransPark. In her role, Gracie is responsible for highlighting the region’s people, assets, and opportunities through effective marketing and communications strategies.
Gracie brings experience in marketing and media with a background that includes athletics marketing and digital communications. Her work is rooted in collaboration, creativity, and a strong understanding of how strategic messaging supports economic development goals. As a Lenoir County native, Gracie is a graduate of Appalachian State University, where she earned a degree in Communication Studies with a focus on public relations and digital marketing. Her educational background and regional knowledge allow her to authentically represent Eastern North Carolina and the communities we serve.
Gracie plays a key part in shaping how the region’s story is shared with partners, prospects, and the public. Her passion for people, attention to detail, and commitment to elevating Eastern North Carolina make her a valuable asset.