Organization of the Staff

Aaron Mullins, President/CEO

Leads tourism strategy, destination branding, and stakeholder collaboration across one of North Carolina’s fastest-growing regions. Prior to this role, he served as Director of Communications and Marketing at Visit Bentonville Arkansas, where he helped position the city as a premier cultural and outdoor destination. Aaron also spent five years on the Walmart Corporate Communications team, partnering with executive leadership to shape national campaigns and manage brand reputation. Earlier in his career, he served as a legislative aide to U.S. Senator Elizabeth Dole, grounding his work in public service and policy. With over two decades of experience spanning tourism, corporate communications, and government, Aaron brings a passion for place-based storytelling, crisis leadership, and driving impact through community engagement.

Angel Phillips, Office/Visitor Center Manager

Performs accounting functions in accordance with County Finance Purchasing Procedures, and assists the President/CEO with the overall financial operation of the Bureau. This position will also assist in the management and operation of the administrative offices, IT duties, and oversees the operation of the visitor center providing visitor services for leisure and group markets.

Eric Dean, Creative Director

Executes the vision of the Johnston County Visitors Bureau while supporting the needs of the marketing, sales, and services departments. Develops all creative aspects and direction of the Bureau’s brand and marketing platforms including graphic design, advertising, print materials, social and digital campaigns, and publications. Manages all technical aspects of the Bureau’s websites, including design, layout, and functionality.

Ashby Brame, VP of Marketing & Communications

Responsible for identifying market opportunities and developing short- and long-term marketing strategies to attract overnight business. These strategies should include advertising, public relations, media familiarization tours, research, and special promotions. Responsible for strategically planning, implementing, and reviewing internal and external communication programs.

Alicia Davis, Digital Marketing Manager

This position promotes the vision of the Visitors Bureau while supporting the needs of the marketing department to generate visitation to the county. The digital marketing manager drives all digital marketing programs including social media content, website content, and photography, and engages with vendors and partners to produce print publications.

Kristin Radford, Sales & Services Manager

Manages the CRM and the Extranet for the tourism industry partners, events, and all brochure distribution in the county. This position is responsible for leisure, group, and sports markets with duties including direct sales, trade shows/industry meetings, and group services.

Christina Arena, Visitors Center Assistant

Welcomes and provides relevant and helpful information about Johnston County to all Visitors to the Visitor Center, responds to phone and email inquiries and maintains the county events calendar.