Alaska State Fair Names Blake Allen as CEO
Former Operations Manager at Denali Park Village
Palmer, Alaska – The Alaska State Fair is pleased to announce the appointment of Blake Allen as its new Chief Executive Officer. Allen brings nearly two decades of leadership experience spanning hospitality, retail operations, event management, and large-scale venue management.
Allen most recently returned to Denali Park Village in interior Alaska as Lodging Operations Manager in January 2026. He previously spent five seasons working in Denali National Park at Denali Park Village in 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, and 2013. In 2012, he worked in Glacier National Park, Montana, further expanding his experience in seasonal destination hospitality operations.
Prior to returning to Alaska, he was a District Manager for ALDI in the Loxley Division, overseeing operations across Florida, Alabama, Louisiana, Georgia, and Mississippi. In that position, he managed multi-unit retail operations, supply chain performance, and large teams across a five-state region.
Earlier in his career, Allen spent four years in the event management and security industry as a Regional Manager with Stadium People, supporting large universities and concert halls throughout the Southeastern United States. His background also includes work with a Manhattan-based start-up hotel communications platform, along with extensive hotel and resort management experience across the continental United States and Alaska.
“Blake’s diverse leadership experience in hospitality, operations, and large-scale event environments makes him an outstanding fit for the Alaska State Fair,” said Jason Ortiz, Board President of the Alaska State Fair. “His operational expertise and commitment to guest experience will help guide the Fair into its next chapter.”
Allen earned his undergraduate degree from the University of North Georgia in 2007 and attended graduate school at Appalachian State University in Boone, North Carolina. In 2017, he was honored as Hotel Department Manager of the Year by the Alabama Restaurant and Hospitality Association for his leadership as Senior Guest Services Manager at Perdido Beach Resort.
“I am honored to join the Alaska State Fair and serve the community in this new capacity,” said Allen. “The Fair is a treasured tradition in Alaska, and I look forward to working with the team, partners, and community members to continue building on its strong legacy.”
The Alaska State Fair provides a center for the Alaskan community to gather in a dynamic and safe atmosphere throughout the year. Through its annual Fair and year-round events, the organization remains committed to educating, entertaining, and celebrating Alaska’s culture and community.