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Tony Russell

Deputy Executive Director of Information Technology Services & Operations
Virginia Lottery


During his Lottery career, Tony Russell has filled a number of roles – most notably recently serving as the Interim Director of the Virginia Lottery. He has had many notable highlights during his tenure, including leading the agency during the 2024 General Assembly Session, coordinating and negotiating legislative initiatives including the potential establishment of an additional casino, skill games, headquarters relocation, a gaming commission study, and more. Tony also established and filled the Director of Information Security role, and recruited and filled the Director of Information Technology Services and the Director of Marketing after two key retirements. Though he was not interested in pursuing a permanent role as Executive Director, he played a key role in assisting the governor’s office recruit for a permanent Director, Khalid Jones, who was named in April. 

 

Tony joined the Virginia Lottery in 2013 after a long successful career with FedEx and Kroger. Since then, he has earned the respect and confidence of every team he has successfully led and managed. His thoughtful approach, always with an eye to learn and understand, has led him to achieve working certifications in areas including procurement and human resources. He has led projects including key contract procurements, system conversions, headquarters relocations, technology infrastructure changeovers, disaster plans (COVID), and Top Workplace awards. 


Tony holds himself to the highest ethical standards while maintaining personal and professional accountability in all that he does. An avid sports fan (Boston Red Sox, New England Patriots, and UNC Tarheels), Tony is competitive both on and off the field. His recent initiatives include training for a marathon with his brother and serving as an elder in his church. He is also a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps and a loving brother, son, husband and father. He has an infectious smile and energy that graces all in his path, and never stops looking for an opportunity to inject fun and pride into all that he does. His go-to phrase “It’s all about the people” is reflected in all that he does.

 





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