Jason Pope has been announced as deputy executive director of workforce programs and services at the Mississippi Department of Employment Security (MDES).
Pope previously served as director of energy and natural resources at the Mississippi Development Authority (MDA). In his new role with MDES, he will help the agency connect employers with qualified workers through various platforms, events, and employment programs.
Prior to working for MDA, Pope served in various roles at Hinds Community College. From 2019-2022, he was associate vice president for physical plant and auxiliary services. Before that, he spent over a decade as the community college’s director of sustainability.
In 2019, Pope was awarded “Environment + Energy Leader 100” for his impact on the industry. He has also served on several local and regional boards and state and national committees, along with collaborating with the Mississippi Energy Institute on diversifying Mississippi’s economic energy base.
Bill Ashley, executive director of MDES, believes Pope’s experience and expertise will mesh perfectly in his new position with the state agency.
“Dr. Pope brings to MDES a strong background in workforce development, economic development, and facilities management. He is a dedicated public servant committed to fostering opportunities for Mississippians,” Ashley said. “I look forward to working with the workforce programs and services team at MDES to fulfill the agency’s mission of helping Mississippians get jobs.”
Pope earned his undergraduate degree in banking and finance at Mississippi State University. He graduated from Mississippi College with a Master of Business Administration and later graduated from Jackson State University with a Ph.D. in public policy and administration.
Pope and his wife, Leslie, have two sons and reside in Madison.
