Matthew Johnson Named Chief of Staff at Kentucky Venues

By Blake Jackson

Kentucky Venues, the operating brand of the Kentucky State Fair Board, has appointed Matthew J. Johnson as its new Chief of Staff, effective immediately.

In his new role, Johnson will serve as a strategic advisor and operational leader to President & CEO David S. Beck, helping coordinate activities across departments as the organization undertakes a $460+ million expansion and renovation of the Kentucky Exposition Center and continues to manage growing event activity at the Kentucky International Convention Center.

Johnson joins during a busy operational period, following record-breaking music festivals Bourbon & Beyond and Louder Than Life which attracted 450,000 attendees. The organization now prepares for The Utility Expo, expected to bring 21,000 industry professionals to Louisville from October 7-9.

These major events reflect Kentucky Venues’ strengthening position as a national leader, hosting more than 300 annual events that generated an estimated $385 million economic impact in fiscal year 2024.

“Matt Johnson brings exactly the combination of leadership, operational expertise, and Kentucky roots that this organization needs during this pivotal period,” said Beck. “His nearly 25 years of strategic leadership in state government, combined with his deep understanding of both large-scale event operations and Kentucky's agricultural community, make him ideally suited” for the role.

Johnson retired from the Kentucky State Police in 2025 after nearly 25 years of service, most recently as West Operations Division Director. Johnson leadership experience includes overseeing regional divisions, directing public safety operations, and managing interagency partnerships.

Johnson also served as General Counsel (2013-2016), Branch Commander for Legislative & Facilities Security (2012-2013), and Post Commander in Elizabethtown (2016-2019).

"This is an extraordinary opportunity to continue serving the Commonwealth in a new capacity," said Johnson. "Kentucky Venues is the economic flagship for our state's tourism and agriculture industries, bringing all 120 counties together through events that showcase Kentucky to the world. I'm honored to join David Beck and this exceptional team during such a transformative period, and I look forward to supporting their efforts to make this organization even stronger."

A Louisville native and U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Johnson also operates a cattle farm in Hardin County. Johnson appointment strengthens Kentucky Venues’ leadership as it advances strategic growth and economic development for the Commonwealth.

Photo Credit: kentucky-venues