The Illinois Environmental Council announced that Charles Jackson, the departing deputy director of the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services, has joined the council as its new executive director.

Jackson says his vision is for the IEC to play a leadership role in developing policies that will create more green jobs and businesses in Illinois.

“We are pleased to have Charles on our team,” said IEC President Robert Kelter. “In a career spanning more than two decades, he has developed considerable public policy expertise as an advocate and as an administrator with an entrepreneurial mindset. This experience will serve him well in leading the push for the Illinois Environmental Council’s ambitious public policy agenda.”

Jackson says he wants to build on the IEC’s successes and core values and add new voices calling for stronger environmental policies.

“With the new leadership in government at the state and federal levels, we expect to make major progress in protecting our environment while we grow the green economy in Illinois,” Jackson said. “I am excited about building new partnerships and expanding the base of support for the IEC’s mission.”

Jackson is leaving the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services where, as deputy director, he administered the state’s residential energy affordability and conservation programs. The programs help Illinois families reduce their energy costs as well as their health risks, particularly among young children.

Jackson began his government service as deputy director of the Illinois Department of Public Health. While there, he employed a broad range of strategies for disease prevention and health promotion, including social marketing, community partnerships, systematic planning and health screening, and developing laws and regulations.

Prior to joining state government, Jackson spent five years with the American Cancer Society. In Washington, D.C., he served as a director in the National Government Relations Office, organizing national advocacy campaigns and galvanizing support from civil rights, business and labor organizations. He also directed research and provided strategic counsel for the adoption of best practices for outreach, advocacy and collaboration.