Illinois e-News Release

December 23, 2025

Springfield, IL — After serving the Illinois Department of Agriculture (IDOA) as Deputy Director for five years, Kristi Jones has been appointed acting Assistant Director by Governor JB Pritzker. This new position will require confirmation by the Illinois Senate.

“Kristi’s policy knowledge is second to none,” said IDOA Director Jerry Costello II. “I have relied on her leadership and experience as Deputy Director, and without a doubt, she will continue to excel as Assistant Director.”

The announcement comes just as 2026 kicks off recognition of women in agriculture locally and internationally. 

Jones has served as the Deputy Director of IDOA since May 2020. She previously served at the Department in the positions of Division Manager of Natural Resources, Division Manager of Food Safety and Animal Protection, Communications Director and Bureau Chief of Non-Fair Events. She also spent four years as a management consultant for Kerber, Eck & Braeckel.

During her career at IDOA, Jones has taken the lead on initiatives ranging from local food system development and expansion; rebuilding a network of field veterinarians to address foreign animal disease management and helping disadvantaged farmers.

She holds a Bachelor’s in Agricultural Communications and Education from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign College of Agricultural, Consumer & Environmental Sciences (ACES) and a Master’s in Public Administration from the University of Illinois Springfield. 

“Kristi brings a unique perspective after serving in multiple roles throughout the department,” Costello added. “As a graduate of the College of ACES with 20 years of experience in the industry, she also has an extensive network of resources and has built strong relationships across state agencies and with ag partners.”

Jones resides in Springfield with her husband Brian and daughters Hannah and Sydney.