Business, Media and Culture 2017

John Arledge has made a career of formulating and executing communications strategy at the highest levels of Mississippi politics and business. He is now Vice President of Public Affairs for Entergy Mississippi. His department oversees the company’s governmental affairs with Mississippi’s state and federal elected leadership. Arledge is also responsible for managing the company’s communication activities with key stakeholders and directing the company’s philanthropic budget.

His previous professional experience includes service as deputy chief of staff for Mississippi Governor Haley Barbour. In that role, Arledge advised on major policy and political initiatives and oversaw the administration’s communications efforts. Arledge also served as the director of communications for Mississippi Governor Kirk Fordice, acting as the governor’s spokesman, head speechwriter and liaison with all Mississippi and national media.

Arledge lives in Brandon, Mississippi, and is a graduate of Mississippi State University. He serves on the boards of the Mississippi Economic Council, Community Bancshares, Inc. and the State Workforce Investment Board.