Jackson, Miss. – Gov. Phil Bryant has appointed deputy state treasurer Laura D. Jackson executive director of the Department of Finance and Administration.
Jackson replaces Kevin Upchurch, who is retiring. As DFA head, Jackson will manage more than 400 employees and be responsible for the management of the state’s budget. She will also serve as the state’s fiscal officer.
Jackson is said to have more than 27 years of experience in state government. She has served as deputy state treasurer since January 2012. Before that, Jackson was DFA’s bond advisory director. From 2002-2008, she was the bond and collateral director in the office of the state treasurer.
Jackson began her career in the state auditor’s office, where she eventually rose to audit supervisor, responsible for the state’s comprehensive annual financial report.
“Laura’s decades of experience and wealth of knowledge about the state’s budget make her a perfect fit to lead DFA,” Gov. Bryant said. “I know she will continue to serve Mississippi well in her new post, and I am delighted she has accepted this appointment.”
Jackson received an associate of arts from Hinds Community College, and a bachelor of science in business administration and an MBA from Mississippi College.
“I am incredibly thankful to Gov. Bryant for this appointment and the confidence he has shown in me,” Jackson said. “My entire career has been dedicated to state government and I am honored to serve in this new capacity. I understand this is a tremendous responsibility and I look forward to this new challenge with anticipation.”
Jackson and her husband live in Clinton. They have three children.
