Spencer, Iowa — A new CEO has been named for the fair that bills itself as the “world’s greatest county fair.”
Fair industry veteran Jerome Hertel has been named the next CEO/Manager of the Clay County Fair Association. Hertel will succeed Jeremy Parsons, who is leaving the Fair & Events Center after nearly 12 years of service to become the CEO/Manager of the Iowa State Fair.
Steve Waller, chairman of the Clay County Fair Board of Directors says, “We are excited to announce Jerome Hertel’s selection as the next CEO/Manager of the Fair. He brings with him years of fair experience, a solid management reputation, and a strong financial background. Originally from the Midwest, Jerome understands the reputation of ‘The World’s Greatest County Fair’ and will continue to grow and expand the Fair.”
Hertel has 24 years of upper-level management experience in the fair industry, most recently as CEO of the Alaska State Fair since 2014. His experience with county, state, and non-profit fairs also includes stints as the operations director of the Sioux Empire Fair in Sioux Falls and executive director of the South Dakota State Fair from 2008-2014.
“I have always found joy in bringing people together to be educated, to be entertained, to connect with one another, and to celebrate as a community,” he said.
Growing up in the Midwest across the street from the Turner County (S.D.) Fairgrounds, Hertel developed a passion for fairs early on. He says, “My greatest memories growing up included setting up carnival rides, working in the church stand, and taking in every day of the fair that I could.”
Hertel’s first day on the job will be April 17.
