Khalid Jones named new Virginia Lottery director

Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin has confirmed the appointment of Khalid Jones as the new executive director of the Virginia Lottery.

Jones takes over from Tony Russell, who was appointed interim lottery director last September.

Jones’ career has spanned roles as founding partner in a boutique investment firm with a strategic focus on real estate, media, sports and technology, as well as a decade-long tenure as an attorney specializing in securities litigation.

Most recently, as part of his business practice, Jones has become one of the nation’s experts in licensing consulting, providing legal and strategic advice to state and national lottery organizations.

Jones was one of three appointments made by the Governor, alongside Robert Ward as chief transformation officer and James Alex as tax commissioner

“It's remarkable to welcome such distinguished professionals to our team who are committed to enacting meaningful and lasting change across the Commonwealth,” said Governor Youngkin. ”Their experience and expertise will help us build on the progress we’ve made in our first two years and continue to better serve Virginians.”

Virginia’s iLottery program has become one of the top performing US lotteries in less than three years from initial launch, while overall lottery sales grew by 23 per cent in the most recent fiscal year.