Board service isn’t just about governance – it’s a leadership masterclass. If you’re looking to grow your impact and elevate your strategic thinking, joining a board is one of the most powerful development opportunities available. Why It Matters At the Greater Houston Partnership, we know that leadership at every level, from the boardroom to the front lines, is critical to advancing Houston’s position as a city of opportunity. Serving on a board strengthens the kind of high-impact leadership our region needs to grow and thrive. Whether you're leading a team or a company, the responsibilities of board members mirror those of top executives: defining strategy, assessing risk, guiding talent and maintaining accountability. Serving on a board challenges you to think beyond your functional expertise and operate with a high-altitude, enterprise-wide perspective. You’ll learn to ask better questions, make sharper decisions and prioritize what truly matters. The Power of Board Diversity Through our One Houston Together initiative, we’re committed to advancing diversity on corporate boards as part of our broader mission to strengthen Houston’s economic dynamism and opportunity for all. Diverse boards bring broader perspectives, deeper understanding of stakeholder needs and stronger business outcomes. When leadership reflects the communities it serves, companies are better equipped to navigate complexity, spark innovation and build lasting trust.  Core Skills You Build Board experience sharpens your ability to: Think strategically: Board members are expected to elevate conversations, zooming out to consider long-term risks and opportunities. Communicate with purpose: You’re on the board for a reason – using your voice with clarity and confidence is key. Prioritize ruthlessly: Managing board commitments alongside your career teaches disciplined time management. Learn continuously: Staying current on market trends, competitors and global shifts is a non-negotiable. What You’ll Tackle Board meetings often center on today’s most pressing business issues: artificial intelligence, global trade and economic shifts, federal policy changes, sustainability and talent development. You won’t just observe – you’ll contribute to decisions that shape a company’s future. These topics mirror the challenges and opportunities the Greater Houston Partnership tackles, including shaping policies, attracting investment and positioning Houston for long-term success. Getting Ready to Serve You don’t need to wait until retirement. Many professionals gain board experience through nonprofit organizations, where they build leadership skills and expand their networks while giving back to the community. Key steps include: Start networking: Relationships matter. Begin connecting with board members and executive leaders now. Stay curious: Board-ready professionals are lifelong learners who bring fresh insights to the table. Be intentional: Think about how your current role demonstrates strategic thinking, community impact and business results. If you're considering board service, don’t underestimate its impact on your professional trajectory. You’ll grow as a leader, contribute to something bigger than yourself, and bring those sharpened skills back to your day job, benefiting your organization and your career.

The George R. Brown Convention Center (GRB) is set to undergo a major transformation that will reimagine downtown Houston into a pedestrian-friendly convention and entertainment district.  Mayor John Whitmire and Houston First Corporation recently unveiled a master plan for the project, marking the first substantial renovation since 2016, which opened the building to Discovery Green and created the Avenida Houston Plaza.   The $2 billion project aims to bolster Houston’s position as a global hub for sports, entertainment and tourism, an especially timely investment as the city prepares to host FIFA World Cup matches in 2026 and the Republican National Convention in 2028.   Phase One  Click to expand The first phase of development includes a 700,000-square-foot building, GRB Houston South, which will serve as a key connector between downtown and Houston’s East End. The building will include two exhibit halls, a multipurpose hall opening to the new Central Plaza, an atrium flex hall, ground-level retail and dining spaces and what is set to be the largest ballroom in Texas.  Click to expand Additionally, the Avenida Plaza will be extended south to connect Discovery Green with the new Central Plaza, creating an expanded gathering space for large-scale events and community activities.  “This project is truly transformative for downtown Houston, a lasting legacy that will solidify our position as a top-tier convention and entertainment destination,” said Mayor Whitmire in a press release. “Most importantly, we are creating a space that will build community, foster connection, and shape the future of Houston.”  Click to expand The project's design is inspired by Houston’s bayous and natural prairie landscape. Along with its nature-inspired elements, the building will use eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems, including rainwater collection and water-saving features, to minimize its environmental impact and strengthen the city's sustainability efforts.  The groundbreaking project will be funded by a portion of the state’s hotel tax revenue, made possible by Senate Bill 1057, which passed in 2023.  The Need for Expanded Infrastructure  With Houston’s hospitality and tourism industry rapidly expanding, the demand for expanded infrastructure has never been greater. In 2024, the city welcomed more than 54 million visitors, an increase of six percent from 2023 and nearly 10 percent since 2019, according to Houston First.  Click to expand “It is imperative for us to stay competitive and meet the needs of our meetings and convention customers,” said Michael Heckman, President and CEO of Houston First, in the same release. “This project will not only accomplish that but will "establish a gathering space that will be the epicenter for entertainment, sports, and city-wide events, accentuating our ability to capitalize on Houston's unique offerings.”  GRB Houston South is scheduled to open in May 2028, with the full project expected to be completed by 2038.  Discover more about living in Houston.