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
Economic Development Director for Greene and Lenoir Counties
Trey Cash brings over 13 years of experience in local and state government and is a North Carolina Certified Economic Developer. He holds an MBA from Fayetteville State University, an MS in Leadership from Grand Canyon University, and a BS in Emergency and Disaster Management from Western Carolina University. Trey is currently attending the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute (OU EDI), the nation’s premier economic development program.
Trey currently serves on the North Carolina Economic Development Association's board of directors. Beyond his professional role, he is committed to community service. He serves on the Boys and Girls Club of the Coastal Plain Corporate Board and has volunteered as a firefighter for over 16 years.
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.
Tim Moore
Marketing and Communications Manager
Tim Moore is an experienced Marketing and Communications Manager at the North Carolina Global TransPark Economic Development Region, bringing over 28 years of expertise in marketing, advertising, graphic design, and photography.
Tim has developed strong graphic design and photography skills throughout his career, making him a valuable asset in economic development and real estate promotion. His creative marketing approach enables him to create compelling marketing and promotional materials that resonate with diverse audiences. Before taking on his current role promoting the EDR Region, Tim made significant contributions to the Wayne County Development Alliance and Wilson Community College, where he played a key role in enhancing their marketing strategies and visual communications.
Tim's commitment to producing creative design work that conveys clear messages continues to drive the success of the North Carolina Global TransPark, positioning it as a leader in economic development.