The Indiana State Fair Commission, which oversees the year-round operation of the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center and the annual Indiana State Fair, has named Ray Allison as its next Executive Director. He will succeed Cindy Hoye upon her retirement in March 2026.
In his current role as Chief Operating Officer, Allison oversees the Indiana State Fair Foundation, strategic planning initiatives and campus development projects. He also oversees event services, facility operations and maintenance, safety and security, food and beverage, livestock, and Ag education. In 2023, he was appointed to the executive committee of the International Association of Fairs & Expos (IAFE) Board of Directors and will serve as board chair in 2026.
Ray is a 1996 graduate of Bradley University with a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Communications. He spent the first decade of his professional career working in the advertising industry, specializing in brand development for small to medium sized businesses. During his time in college, and every August since, Ray has worked the annual Indiana State Fair (32 Fairs total). Ray joined the Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center staff full-time in 2007 as the Public Safety Manager. He was promoted to Public Safety Director in 2009, Director of Operations in 2012 and VP of Administration in 2014.
“It is an honor to serve as the next Executive Director of this treasured institution,” said Allison. “I have spent most of my adult life serving this organization, and I am humbled to be selected as its next caretaker. I look forward to working with our incredible team to build upon our rich heritage and continue making memories and building traditions for our next 175 years.”
“Ray Allison’s selection reflects both his exceptional leadership and his deep, longstanding commitment to the Indiana State Fair,” said Indiana Governor Mike Braun. “I am confident his experience, passion, and vision will continue to move the Fair and Fairgrounds forward. At the same time, I extend my sincere gratitude to Cindy Hoye for her transformative leadership, which has left an enduring and positive impact on the state of Indiana.”
Hoye announced her retirement earlier this fall following nearly four decades of service. She is celebrated as holding the longest tenure of any Executive Director of the Indiana State Fair Commission. Allison will officially take over following Hoye’s retirement effective March 31, 2026.
Source: Indiana State Fairgrounds & Event Center
