The Kentucky State Fair Board unanimously selected Clifford “Rip” Rippetoe to serve as its next president and CEO. Rippetoe replaces Harold Workman, who has served as president and CEO since 1993 and is stepping down at the end of the year.
“We believe Rip Rippetoe will help guide the Kentucky State Fair Board through the challenges we face and help us take advantage of the opportunities we have,” said Board Chairman Ron Carmicle. “The board looks forward to working with Rip as we move forward.”
The Fair Board oversees the Kentucky Exposition Center and the Kentucky International Convention Center in downtown Louisville. The Fair Board president and CEO is responsible for the day-to-day management of the facilities operated by the Fair Board, markets those facilities and administers board policies.
Rippetoe, 52, has an extensive background working with convention facilities and large events. He most recently has operated his own Las Vegas–based consulting firm that works with public convention centers and facilities since 2008. He worked as an executive with GES Exposition Services in Las Vegas, at one point managing a team of 40 sales managers in 12 offices, from 2004-2008.
Rippetoe served as executive director and CEO of visitor information services for Utah for the 2002 Olympic Games. He raised money, coordinated 800 volunteers, managed guest accommodations and worked with corporate sponsors.