(Edited Kentucky state release)
Kentucky Gov. Steve Beshear announced Aug. 26 that deputy chief of staff Vince Gabbert will leave the administration in October to join venerable racetrack and sales company, Keeneland.
Gabbert, 33, has been named executive assistant to Keeneland president Nick Nicholson. Gabbert’s last day with the administration is Oct. 1. At Keeneland, Gabbert will have a broad portfolio of administrative and operational responsibilities at one of the industry’s best known and iconic racetracks.
"Vince Gabbert’s contributions to this administration are immeasurable and have been of critical importance during very challenging times. He has been a senior member of my team and I have relied on him continuously for advice and counsel. He will be missed," Beshear said. "I believe it is a testament to our administration’s work and progress that Keeneland’s leadership has seen his tremendous talent and sought him out for such an important executive position."
"It has been an honor to work for Gov. Steve Beshear, a man for whom I have such respect. During the most challenging economy our country has faced in decades, his steady and honest leadership have helped our commonwealth hold its own and, in key areas, make progress," Gabbert said. "It’s only an institution like Keeneland, which is an undisputed leader in an industry that is so important to Kentucky, that would lure me away from the administration."
As deputy chief of staff, Gabbert has a wide range of responsibilities, overseeing boards and commissions, constituent services and outreach to local, state and national officials. Beshear said he hopes to name a replacement for Gabbert in the coming days.
"Although Vince will be missed, I am confident that the talent here on our staff, and the quality of people we have attracted to this administration, will ensure that we continue moving forward in helping our state progress," Beshear said. "We have important work to do during very challenging times. We will continue to move forward."