Kristi Jones Appointed Acting Assistant Director of Illinois Department of Agriculture (Springfield, IL) – Gov. J.B. Pritzker has appointed Kristi Jones as acting Assistant Director of the Illinois Department of Agriculture, elevating a longtime agency leader with more than two decades of experience in agriculture and public administration. The appointment is subject to confirmation by the Illinois Senate.
Jones has served as deputy director of the department since May 2020, a role in which she oversaw a wide range of policy and operational initiatives. Her appointment comes as 2026 begins with renewed recognition of the contributions of women in agriculture at both the local and international levels.
Illinois Department of Agriculture Director Jerry Costello II praised Jones’ experience and leadership, noting her deep institutional knowledge.
“Kristi’s policy knowledge is second to none,” Costello said in a statement. “I have relied on her leadership and experience as deputy director, and without a doubt, she will continue to excel as assistant director.”
During her tenure at the department, Jones has held several key positions, including division manager of natural resources, division manager of food safety and animal protection, communications director, and bureau chief of non-fair events. Before becoming deputy director, she also spent four years as a management consultant with Kerber, Eck & Braeckel.
Jones has led or contributed to initiatives focused on strengthening local food systems, rebuilding the state’s network of field veterinarians to address foreign animal disease threats, and expanding support for disadvantaged farmers across Illinois.
Costello said Jones’ background and professional relationships will continue to benefit the agency in her new role.
“Kristi brings a unique perspective after serving in multiple roles throughout the department,” he said. “As a graduate of the College of ACES with 20 years of experience in the industry, she also has an extensive network of resources and has built strong relationships across state agencies and with agricultural partners.”
Jones holds a bachelor’s degree in agricultural communications and education from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences and a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Illinois Springfield.
She lives in Springfield with her husband, Brian, and their daughters, Hannah and Sydney.
Kristi Jones Appointed Acting Assistant Director of Illinois Department of Agriculture
