Florida Gaming Control Commission appoints Alana Zimmer as new executive director

• Alana Zimmer takes the helm as executive director of the FGCC from 30 October.
• Zimmer brings experience from leadership roles in the Kansas Lottery and Kansas City Automotive Museum.
• The FGCC expects her to focus on regulatory integrity and responsible gaming initiatives.

The Florida Gaming Control Commission (FGCC) has named Alana Zimmer as its new executive director, effective 30 October.

The move signals a renewed focus on regulatory enforcement and responsible gaming for one of America’s largest gambling markets. Zimmer succeeds previous leadership following a comprehensive search and brings a track record spanning government and non-profit sectors.​

Background and appointment

Alana Zimmer returns to Florida with leadership experience shaped by roles in both the public and private sectors. She studied at Florida State University and held the position of commissioner for the Kansas Lottery between 2016 and 2019.

More recently, she led the Kansas City Automotive Museum, overseeing a $30 million fundraising campaign. Her appointment is backed by the FGCC’s mission to preserve the integrity of gaming activities throughout the state, using fair regulation, licensing, and effective enforcement.​

​“Alana has shown outstanding leadership throughout her career and I am confident she will work hard to eliminate illegal gambling and support Florida citizens and businesses,” said FGCC vice chair Julie Imanuel Brown.

“We welcome Alana back to Florida and Tallahassee where she went to college at Florida State University. We are excited to see where all her talents and skills will take FGCC.”

Responsibilities and sector impact

Zimmer now leads the FGCC’s efforts to direct, coordinate, and administer all activities related to gambling oversight in line with Section 16.712 of Florida Statutes.

The commission regulates everything from pari-mutuel wagering and cardrooms to slot machine facilities, and gaming compacts with tribal entities. As the executive director, Zimmer faces an evolving sector marked by new technologies, rising consumer expectations, and ongoing challenges from unregulated activities.​

“I am honored to be appointed by the Florida Gaming Control Commission as its Executive Director,” said Alana Zimmer.​ “My experience with modernising the Kansas Lottery and expanding responsible gaming initiatives will transfer well to my new role as the FGCC executive director. I look forward to working closely with the Governor and Legislature on improving and expanding responsible gaming in Florida,” Zimmer added.​

Regulatory focus

The commission’s current priorities include cracking down on illegal gambling operations and building collaborative efforts with other regulators, law enforcement, and industry stakeholders.

Zimmer is expected to bring a renewed emphasis on responsible gaming, consumer protection, and regulatory innovation, positioning Florida as a key jurisdiction for both national and international operators.

Looking ahead, Zimmer’s appointment is seen as a step towards strengthening regulatory frameworks and protecting gaming integrity. Her approach may influence operator compliance programmes, investor confidence, and legislative cooperation in a rapidly growing market.​