Kris Larson
President & CEO
Houston, Texas, United States
Professional Overview
Kris Larson is an experienced executive with a proven track record of driving urban development and revitalization initiatives. As the President and CEO of Central Houston, Inc. (CHI), he spearheads the strategic planning and implementation of projects that enhance the city's economic vitality, livability, and competitiveness.
Experience Summary
Current Role
As the President and CEO of Central Houston, Inc. (CHI) since October 2021, Kris Larson oversees the organization's efforts to advocate for the interests of Houston's downtown business community. He is responsible for developing and executing a comprehensive strategy to attract investment, promote economic growth, and improve the overall experience for residents, workers, and visitors in the city's core.
Under Kris's leadership, CHI has successfully launched several high-impact initiatives, including the implementation of a comprehensive mobility plan and the establishment of a public-private partnership to revitalize underutilized urban spaces.
Career Progression
Prior to his current role, Kris Larson served as the Chief Executive Officer of The Hollywood Partnership, where he led the organization's efforts to revitalize the iconic Hollywood district in Los Angeles. Before that, he held CEO positions at the Downtown Raleigh Alliance and Downtown Grand Rapids Inc., where he spearheaded major redevelopment projects and strengthened the respective cities' economic competitiveness.
Kris's earlier career includes roles as the Vice President of the Downtown Long Beach Alliance and as a Senior Planner at the City of Raleigh, where he gained valuable experience in urban planning and community development.
Academic Background
Kris Larson holds a Master's degree in Urban Planning from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he specialized in economic development and community revitalization strategies.
Areas of Expertise
- Urban development and revitalization
- Public-private partnerships
- Economic growth and investment attraction
- Collaborative leadership and stakeholder engagement
- Strategic planning and project management
Professional Impact
Throughout his career, Kris Larson has demonstrated a strong commitment to transforming urban communities and driving sustainable development. His leadership has been instrumental in the successful implementation of numerous high-profile projects, including the redevelopment of downtown districts, the creation of vibrant public spaces, and the enhancement of multimodal transportation networks.
Conclusion
With his extensive experience, strategic vision, and collaborative approach, Kris Larson is poised to continue making a significant impact on the urban landscape as the President and CEO of Central Houston, Inc. His deep understanding of the complexities of city-building and his ability to forge innovative partnerships make him a valuable asset in the ongoing efforts to enhance Houston's livability, economic competitiveness, and long-term sustainability.
