Gouri Shanker Priyadarshi, born on July 10, 1972, is a 2002 batch IAS officer of the Uttar Pradesh cadre. He holds a graduate degree in Commerce, ICWAI Cost Accounting, and a postgraduate degree in Commerce. Currently, he serves as Commissioner & Secretary in the Rural Development Department, Lucknow, since September 27, 2023. Throughout his career, he has held various positions including Commissioner, Secretary, Divisional Commissioner, District Collector and Magistrate, Special Secretary, Managing Director, Chief Development Officer, and Joint Magistrate. He is proficient in English and Hindi and continues to serve in the Indian Administrative Service.