Sampson County is pleased to introduce their new county attorney and three department directors who have joined the team this year, introducing new insights and expertise to their respective roles. Each of them will play an important role in advancing county operations and services, and the county is excited about the contributions they will make.
Ray Jordan appointed economic development director
Ray Jordan officially assumed the role of full-time Economic Development Director for Sampson County since Feb. 1, 2024. Jordan, who has been serving as both interim economic development director and director of the Sampson Agri-Expo Center, will now focus entirely on economic development. Jordan has been a key figure at the Expo Center for many years and has also contributed significantly to local boards and councils.
Kaitlin Adkins named director of Sampson County Agri-Exposition Center
Effective July 1, 2024, Kaitlin Adkins has assumed the role of director of the Agri-Exposition Center. Adkins has been the Center’s event services manager since 2022. She graduated from NC State University with a degree in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management. She previously served as the communications coordinator and downtown director for the City of Dunn. She also has prior experience with the Expo Center from her time as executive director of the Clinton-Sampson Chamber of Commerce.
Devin Hall named director of building inspection
Devin Hall assumed the role of director of building inspection on Aug. 1, 2024. Devin Hall has over a decade of service to Sampson County, steps into the role of building inspection director with a background in water system management. Previously serving as water superintendent, Hall’s experience in managing operations and staff has sparked a strong interest in building inspections, planning and zoning. Addressing the growth of county development and maintaining thorough inspections, Hall plans to adopt new inspection technologies to manage increasing demands. He aims to streamline permit and inspection processes, focusing on sustainability and efficiency within the department.
Paul Allen appointed county attorney
Most recently, Paul Allen began his tenure as county attorney on Aug. 19, 2024. Allen will be instrumental in providing legal counsel to the county government and its various departments.
Allen has served as assistant city attorney for Fayetteville since November 2020. In that position, he provided oversight and legal guidance across multiple departments. He also managed complex contracts, policy updates and legal research. Paul Allen holds a Juris Doctorate from North Carolina Central University School of Law.
These new appointments mark a significant moment for the county. Sampson County looks forward to their leadership and the positive impact they will make in their respective departments.
The KRAKEN-SKULLS brand includes a barbershop, a tattoo shop, a T-shirt company, an embroidery company, a website design company, a media marketing and graphic design company and an auto shop. Photos by GFBJ.When Chad Kraken retired from the military
Fred Surgeon, with the support of his wife Anita, owns and operates Surgeon &Associates, Inc, a family of businesses with everything from agritourism, pestcontrol, cleaning services and behavioral health services. Photos provided by Fred Surgeon.
Agents and leadership from Coldwell Banker Advantage and Coldwell Banker Sea Coast Advantage gathered to celebrate one of their own as she was recognized with two national achievements. A new C-Suite leader was also in attendance.
