Mark Thornton joined the county in October 2005, with over 25 years of public service in parks and recreation. Prior to coming to Hillsborough County, he lead several Parks and Recreation Departments as Director including Allen, Texas and Temple, Texas, Naples, Florida and Escambia, County, Florida and most recently served as Chief Executive Officer for the Recreation and Park Commission for the Parish of East Baton Rouge.

A native of Texas and a second generation park professional, Mark holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Park Administration from Texas Tech University. He is Certified by the National Recreation and Park Association as a Park and Recreation Professional and has had served on association board of directors in Texas and Florida. He currently serves on the national board of directors of the National Association of County Parks and Recreation Officials.