WILSON, NORTH CAROLINA – Wilson County Government welcomes Jonathan Pope as its new Emergency Management Director. Pope previously served as the Assistant Emergency Management Coordinator for Johnston County Emergency Services, a role he’s held since 2017. Prior to this, he was with Wilson Fire & Rescue Services for 10 years. He replaces longtime Wilson County Government employee, Gordon Deno, who retired from the position in December 2025 after 41 years of service.

“Jonathan is a lifelong Wilson County resident with a dedicated career in fire and emergency management services,” stated County Manager Ron Hunt. “I am confident he will build upon our county’s excellent history in Emergency Management. We are excited about what’s ahead.”

In this role, Pope will be responsible for planning, coordinating and managing the county’s emergency preparedness, disaster response, recovery operations and hazard mitigation in collaboration with countywide public safety and volunteer fire department partnerships.

“I’m honored to have the opportunity to serve the citizens of Wilson County as Emergency Management Director. As a lifelong resident, I’m especially grateful to serve the county where I grew up and where my family has always lived,” said Pope. “I am dedicated to any roles that emergency management may be involved in and to helping Wilson County residents be better prepared when a disaster may strike.”

Pope resides in Wilson County with his family. He has an Associate Degree in Fire Protection Technology from Wilson Community College and a Bachelor’s in Emergency and Disaster Management from Western Carolina University. He will begin with Wilson County on April 1, 2026.

###