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Grace Kent Johnson

Senior Director

Grace Kent Johnson is the co-founder and Senior Director at BREAD, one of Mississippi’s largest and most successful brand, marketing, and advertising agencies. She is also the co-founder and Managing Partner at Blue Hen, a BREAD partner agency specializing in business support and consultancy. Blue Hen has provided strategic growth training for over 40,000 industry employees, positioning it as a leader in workforce development.

A recipient of the Top 40 Under 40 Award from the Mississippi Business Journal and the ADP Spirit Award, Grace has been recognized for her exceptional leadership, strategic insight, and service to her community. Beginning January 2026, she will serve on the Executive Committee of the Area Development Partnership (ADP) as the Chamber of Commerce Division Chair, representing ADP’s membership and championing involvement and engagement across the community. In this role, Grace will lead initiatives that strengthen member relations, foster business growth, and enhance collaboration among local organizations, ensuring that the voice of the business community is heard and supported through the ADP’s strategic vision.

Grace also continues to serve as a Board Member for Cadence Bank and on the ADP Capital Campaign Leadership Team, reflecting her commitment to advancing economic and community development throughout South Mississippi.

Driven by progress, intentionality, and hard work, Grace believes in the power of selflessness in building stronger communities. She thrives on simplifying the overly complex, identifying opportunities where others see obstacles, and leveraging the strengths of those she works with to create lasting success.

Known for her competitive spirit, Grace excels in leadership roles—helping teams navigate challenges and accomplish ambitious goals. She approaches every task with both analytical rigor and intuition, led by faith and guided by her instincts. While her intensity can be formidable, she is grateful for the people in her life who help balance her drive with grace and perspective.

Born and raised in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, Grace holds a bachelor’s degree from Mississippi State University’s College of Architecture. Her professional experience spans architecture, sports and entertainment branding, business and industrial branding, and community-focused marketing and advertising. She is passionate about seeing brands grow and win—pushing them to reach their full potential in today’s competitive marketplace.

Grace is deeply committed to her family and her faith. She cherishes time with her husband and three children and finds joy in the simple things—whether it’s hiking, entertaining guests, or tending to her chickens and garden. A proud Christian, Grace is an active member of Temple Baptist Church in Hattiesburg and loves cooking, traveling, and sharing her home with friends and loved ones.

 

Recognitions & Affiliations
  • Top 40 Under 40 Award Recipient, Mississippi Business Journal (2025) — Recognized for exceptional leadership and performance
  • ADP Spirit Award Recipient — Honoring commitment to community and professional excellence
  • Executive Committee, Chamber of Commerce Division Chair, Area Development Partnership (effective January 2026)
  • Board Member, Area Development Partnership (ADP)
  • Board Member, Cadence Bank
  • Leadership Team Member, ADP Capital Campaign