Professionals united to advance the Charlotte Region.

John Kelly joined the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance as its newest economic research associate after earning his Bachelor of Science in Economics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He developed an interest in applying economic models while studying abroad at the London School of Economics after his sophomore year.

As an economic research associate for the CLT Alliance, John applies his experience in gathering and analyzing data to support economic development throughout the 14-county region.

Lisa Horldt serves as Vice President of Accounting and Finance for the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance, a key player in accounting operations that ensures the accuracy, integrity, and timeliness of all financial reporting. In this role, she manages payables and receivables, human resources, and risk management — and partners with senior leadership to strengthen financial controls and support the organization’s long-term health and growth.

Lisa has spent time on corporate finance teams large and small and served as a tax accountant for a public firm. But after more than a decade of service in the non-profit sector, she has found she loves working for organizations that are driving meaningful community impact.

Ashley Hedrick began her career as an intern with the Charlotte Chamber, supporting business retention efforts across the region. What started as an internship quickly evolved into a full-time role focused on helping companies grow and thrive in the Charlotte Region.

Today, Ashley serves as vice president of marketing, communications and engagement for the CLT Alliance. In this role, she leads dynamic marketing and events teams dedicated to elevating the Charlotte Region’s brand and creating meaningful engagement opportunities for investors, partners, and stakeholders—both in-market and beyond.

Ashley Hayes joined the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance as director of engagement in 2025. In this role, she oversees the planning and execution of investor programs and events that strengthen relationships and foster meaningful connections across the region’s business community.

With more than a decade of experience spanning project management, marketing, and event production, Ashley brings a thoughtful, detail-oriented approach to engagement. She is known for thinking beyond logistics by considering audience experience, brand alignment, and overall impact to ensure initiatives run smoothly and resonate with stakeholders.

Lauren Harley serves as the government affairs associate on the advocacy team, leveraging her experience in communications, public relations, and local and state government to support the organization’s government affairs initiatives.

Prior to joining the CLT Alliance, Harley gained valuable experience at the South Carolina Office of Resilience. As the executive assistant to the chief resilience officer, she played a pivotal role in organizational operations, supporting communications, human resources, and administrative functions.

Grace Futterman joined the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance as an event coordinator with a strong background in sales, client service, and community engagement. Experiences with brands such as Madewell, Urban Outfitters, Nivea, Theo & Spence NYC, and SupperClub South End have prepared her for delivering exceptional events to our investors.

As a Connecticut native, Grace brings a unique perspective to her work, having witnessed the growth and development of different local geographies.

Ashton Franklin is a Member Relations Associate for the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance. In this role, he works with investors and stakeholders across the 14-county, bi-state Charlotte Region, helping organizations maximize the value of their membership while fostering strategic connections that support economic growth and regional prosperity.

Originally from Canton, Michigan, Ashton relocated to Charlotte and quickly immersed himself in the region’s vibrant business and community landscape. Shortly after moving, he co-founded Brews & Bros, a networking initiative designed to bring together young professionals, entrepreneurs, and community leaders through meaningful conversations and authentic relationship-building experiences.