Governor Youngkin Announces Strategic Appointments to Key Virginia Administration Roles
Gov. Glenn Youngkin of Virginia has announced new appointments within his administration, including key positions such as the director of the Virginia Lottery, chief transformation officer, and tax commissioner.
New Leadership for Virginia Lottery
Khalid Jones has been appointed as the new director of the Virginia Lottery. Jones, a founder of a hedge fund, attorney, and licensing firm partner, steps into a role that oversees the state’s burgeoning lottery and casino industries.
He succeeds Kelly Gee, who was appointed secretary of the commonwealth in August 2023. Jones brings a diverse background, including experience in sports and entertainment branding, marketing, and licensing, as well as legal expertise in securities enforcement and intellectual property.
Chief Transformation Officer Appointed
Robert Ward has been named Virginia’s new chief transformation officer, a position created by Youngkin early in his tenure to boost efficiency and reduce costs within state agencies.
Ward, who has served as a real estate senior adviser to Youngkin and has a long history in commercial development, replaces Eric Moeller, who made notable improvements at various state agencies.
Ward’s experience managing over $4.5 billion in real estate assets positions him to continue the transformative initiatives started by his predecessor.
New Tax Commissioner
James Alex, a partner and principal at RSM and leader of the firm’s U.S. tax policy section, has been appointed as the new tax commissioner.
Alex brings a wealth of experience from his time as a senior advisor to the assistant secretary for tax policy in the U.S. Department of the Treasury and nearly two decades at Ernst & Young.
He takes over from Craig M. Burns, who retired last month. Alex’s extensive background in tax policy is expected to be invaluable in his new role overseeing the state’s taxation issues.
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