Des Moines, IA (KICD)– The Iowa State Fair has named its new CEO and he is a very familiar face around the Spencer community.

Jeremy Parsons was formally named as the leader of the annual summer event on Friday replacing Gary Slater who announced his retirement in October after serving as CEO since 2001.

Parsons tells KICD News this opportunity to go to Des Moines really helps bring is career full circle considering that state fairgrounds are where he really got his start.

It really goes without saying that his time in Spencer has been special as he watched the Clay County Fair get nothing but support from the community.

He adds he will be taking his memories and things he has learned in Spencer to help make the Iowa State Fair even better.

Parsons will officially take over the Iowa State Fair in March and says until that time will continue dedication to Clay County as planning for the 2023 fair continues.