Wisconsin State Fair Names New CEO

The Wisconsin State Fair Park Board of Directors named Kathleen O'Leary the Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer. O'Leary had been the Interim CEO since May.

O'Leary has worked for Wisconsin State Fair Park for nearly 20 years, including serving as the COO.

“Kathleen has extensive experience managing all aspects of Wisconsin State Fair Park, as well as the annual Wisconsin State Fair. She has a proven track-record in terms of budgeting, staffing, sponsorship, marketing and board governance,” said John Yingling, Chairman of the Wisconsin State Fair Park Board of Directors. “Kathleen is very well-respected, not only within the organization, but also in the community and the fair industry. The board looks forward to working with her and the entire staff to continue the success of State Fair Park.”

O'Leary will oversee a staff of nearly 50 full-time permanent employees and almost 1,500 part-time and seasonal employees during the annual Wisconsin State Fair. This 2017 Wisconsin State Fair runs from Aug. 3 to Aug. 13.