End of an Era: Texas Lottery Executive Director Gary Grief Set to Retire in February 2024
9 months ago
After more than 33 years of dedicated service, Gary Grief, Executive Director of the Texas Lottery, announced that he will retire in February 2024. This news marks the end of an era in the Texas Lottery's history, as Grief had been at the helm steering the wheel for an extraordinary span of time.
Having served in the lottery industry for almost three decades, Gary Grief revolutionized the landscape of the Texas Lottery. With his innovative thinking and commitment, he was successful in transforming the lottery from an exciting game of luck to an impactful social benefit venture. His focus was always on maximizing revenue for the good causes supported by the Texas Lottery including public education, veterans’ services, and other state programs.
Gary Grief's leadership has been instrumental in the growth and development of the Texas Lottery. During his tenure, the Lottery's annual sales increased significantly with over $6.7 billion in total revenue recorded in the 2020 fiscal year alone. This has resulted in billions of dollars being directed to the Foundation School Fund, which supports public education in Texas. Additionally, his relentless advocacy for responsible gaming has played a crucial role in safeguarding the interests of the players.
Grief’s forward-thinking approach guided the lottery to embrace technology and enhance customer experience, launching the official mobile app that contributes tremendously in making the lottery more accessible to Texans throughout the state.
Beyond his remarkable leadership of the Texas Lottery, Grief has made significant contributions to the broader U.S lottery industry. He served as the chair of the Powerball Game Group and served on numerous committees of the Multi-State Lottery Association, influencing lottery operations nationwide and bolstering the status of the Texas Lottery on a national stage.
As Texas Lottery prepares for this transition, the industry will be faced with the task of filling the impending void. It is going to be a tall order, considering the legacy Gary Grief leaves behind.
Gary’s retirement announcement has prompted great commendation from peers and industry professionals. His dedication, hard work, strategic thought leadership, and integrity have not been lost on those working around him. He will certainly be remembered for his unwavering commitment to the Texas Lottery and the great strides achieved under his direction.
While the task of finding a worthy successor is indeed formidable, Grief will be leaving the Texas Lottery in an enviable position. His emphasis on integrity, player protection, and efficient service delivery offers a strong path for the future.
In the coming years, his impact will continue to be felt as the organization builds upon the robust foundation he has laid. We at The Lottery Lab wish Gary Grief all the best in his retirement, confident in the knowledge that the Texas Lottery will continue to flourish because of his enduring legacy.
