In mid-September, the Alliance hired Caitie Forde-Smith as Director of Marketing and Communications. Caitie will manage the organization's internal and external marketing strategies, as well as create and implement business recruitment initiatives and targeted marketing campaigns designed to connect the Alliance with companies interested in strategically locating in Transylvania County. Additionally, Caitie will build relationships with existing businesses and generate marketing and storytelling pieces that promote a stong business community and positive local growth.
Born and raised in eastern North Carolina, Caitie attended UNC Chapel Hill and the School of Media and Journalism. After graduation, she earned a Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree from UNC Wilmington and entered public service, working on communications and outreach efforts for the North Carolina Coastal Federation. In July 2014, she landed in western North Carolina after taking a marketing leadership position with Whole Foods Market. Outside of work, she enjoys running and practicing yoga (badly), as well as traveling, hiking and cooking with friends and her boyfriend, Adam.
Caitie can be reached at caitie@transylvaniaalliance.com or by calling (828) 393-4130.