Christy Bjornson to lead ABC division

Arkansas Department of Finance and Administration (DFA) Secretary Jim Hudson announced Tuesday (Oct. 10) that Christy Bjornson will serve as the new Director of the Arkansas Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) Division.

ABC, a division of the Department of Finance and Administration, oversees more than 6,400 alcohol permits across the state and has responsibility for the regulation and supervision of alcohol, including manufacturing and distribution. In addition, ABC also oversees operation of the state’s permitted medical marijuana facilities.

Bjornson will join ABC from DFA’s Office of Field Audit, where she was Attorney Supervisor.

“With years of legal experience and as a leader in our Field Audit Division, Christy understands what it takes to ensure compliance with a complex set of rules,” said Secretary Hudson. “It is also critical to have a director who can maintain relationships with permit holders, law enforcement and leaders on the local and state level. Christy is the leader ABC needs as the Division’s responsibilities continue to expand.”

Bjornson’s first day as ABC director will be Oct. 16. Prior to joining DFA, she was a deputy prosecuting attorney for the Sixth Judicial District.

“I am truly humbled to have the privilege of serving Arkansans as Director of the Alcoholic Beverage Control Division,” said Bjornson. “The agency’s hardworking staff oversee and process thousands of permits each year, and I am eager to continue serving the people of Arkansas as a member of the team.”

Bjornson, a native of Little Rock, earned a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Central Arkansas and a Juris Doctor Degree from the William H. Bowen School of Law.