Governor-Elect Matt Bevin today announced the appointment of Don Parkinson of Louisville as Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet Secretary.
Parkinson is a longtime KFC/Yum executive with extensive experience in marketing, food service and the arts.
“I am pleased to have someone with Don’s extensive industry knowledge joining the administration as Tourism, Arts and Heritage Secretary,” said Governor-Elect Bevin. “Tourism and travel is Kentucky’s third largest revenue producing industry, generating $13 billion in economic activity. I’m highly confident in Don’s ability to lead this important effort.”
Parkinson is a retired Senior Vice President of KFC and YUM Brands, where he provided leadership to the KFC franchise system. Prior to joining KFC in 1980, Parkinson served as Advertising Manager of Pontiac Motor Division of General Motors.
He has also served twice as the Interim President of the Kentucky Center for the Arts. He earned a Bachelor of Science degree from West Virginia University and Master of Science degree from Stanford University.
“I’m thrilled to be joining the Bevin administration, and I look forward to working with the Governor-Elect as we tell the world what the Commonwealth has to offer,” said Parkinson.
In addition, Governor-Elect Bevin announced the appointment of Donnie Holland of Cadiz as Commissioner of the Department of Parks.
“Kentucky’s Parks system is a treasure with deep reserves of untapped potential,” said Governor-Elect Bevin. “Donnie will be a tremendous ambassador for the Commonwealth as we work to make Kentucky State Parks a premier destination for residents and visitors alike.”
Prior to appointment Holland served as General Manager of Wabash National Trailer Centers, President of Benson International and a General Manager for Johnson Controls Inc. He earned an Engineering Certification from Georgia Tech.
“I’m excited to have the opportunity to work within Kentucky’s tremendous Parks system,” said Holland. “Kentucky’s beauty is spectacular and I look forward to helping promote Kentucky Parks as a travel destination.”
Holland is actively involved in his community including serving as a member of the Trigg County Board of Education and a board member of the Cadiz Rotary Club. He is also a member of Western Kentucky Workforce Development Board, former President of the Trigg County Public School Educational Foundation, and former board member on the Kentucky Chamber.
Holland has extensive experience promoting Land Between the Lakes and Lake Barkley State Resort Park.