The Missouri Lottery Commission has hired Lester Elder of Jefferson City as the Missouri Lottery’s new executive director, effective Nov. 7.
“As gaming and retail environments are going through pretty dramatic changes, we look forward to Mr. Elder’s leadership in our mission to maximize profits for public education in Missouri,” said Lance Mayfield, chair of the Missouri Lottery Commission.
Elder currently serves as chief administrator of the Missouri Department of Revenue’s Compliance and Investigation Bureau, overseeing criminal and administrative investigations, as well as duties related to budget, legislation and policy development. He was previously a Missouri State Highway Patrolman and retired a Captain after 30 years of service. During his tenure, Elder also served as director of the Gaming Division from 2006-2011.
“It’s an honor to be chosen to lead the Missouri Lottery and to continue supporting students and businesses throughout the state,” said Elder. “Missourians can continue to count on the Missouri Lottery as a trusted source of entertainment and a valued partner for education.”
Elder graduated from Macon R-1 High School and earned an associate degree in criminal justice from Northeast Missouri State University in Kirksville. He also served in the United States Marine Corps Reserves.
Elder will be the Lottery’s sixth executive director since Lottery sales began in January 1986.
