An Indian-American legal professional has been appointed the Deputy Treasurer for the Policy and Programmes of Illinois, making him the highest-ranking South Asian to serve the state administration.

Raja Krishnamoorthi, 34, is currently a partner specialising in commercial litigation at Kirkland and Ellis LLP, the 1,000-attorney global law firm based in Chicago.

"Raja is a true leader who will bring a wealth of experience and fresh, innovative ideas to the state government," Illinois Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias said. "Illinois residents are very fortunate to have Raja working for them," he added.

Krishnamoorthi will oversee the office's pension investment policy, Bright Start College Savings Programme, Unclaimed Property Division, Venture Capital Fund, Linked

Deposit loan programmes for agricultural and business development, and the Treasurer's homeownership programme.

"I am honoured that Treasurer Giannoulias has appointed me to the Deputy Treasurer position in his administration," Krishnamoorthi said. "I look forward to helping him advance his agenda of serving the people of Illinois and making the Illinois Treasurer's Office the best in the nation," he added.

Krishnamoorthi is the first person of South Asian descent to achieve the deputy level in the Illinois government.

"The South Asian community is very proud of Raja's appointment," said Jay Luthra, executive director of the Indo-American Centre. "As the highest ranking South Asian in Illinois, we hope that Raja will serve as a role model for other South Asians to become more civically active," he added.