Jessica Allen is the new chair of the Indiana Alcohol and Tobacco Commission.
“Jessica’s years of experience with the (Indiana) Alcohol and Tobacco Commission, and working with the tutelage of Dave Cook, has prepared her well for her new role,” said Gov. Eric Holcomb, who chose Allen for the post. “I’m confident under her leadership the commission will continue to ensure fair and just proceedings, protect public health and safety, and maintain strong relationships with the business community.”
Allen currently serves as the executive secretary of the ATC. The commission is responsible for regulating and licensing the state’s alcohol and tobacco industries and directs the Indiana State Excise Police.
Allen advises on legal matters while also serving as an administrative hearing judge and overseeing all litigation matters for the agency. During her time with the commission, Allen has spearheaded licensing system updates to provided customer service improvements and streamlined permit processing procedures, the state said.
Allen began her legal career as a deputy prosecutor for Marion County. In 2010, she became the assistant city prosecutor for Indianapolis, and joined the ATC in 2014 as commission counsel.
She earned an undergraduate degree from Butler University and a law degree from the Indiana University McKinney School of Law.
Allen replaces David Cook, who is taking over as Indiana Inspector General.
