Topic:
The Big Business of Stadiums and Sporting Events
Presentation Summary:
The Harris County – Houston Sports Authority was founded almost 30 years ago to build and oversee professional sports stadiums. In addition to that role, the HCHSA markets Houston as a destination for sporting events and has recently hosted NCAA Final Four and the College Football Championship, and in 2026 will welcome the world’s largest sporting event, the FIFA World Cup.
Speaker Details:
Ryan Walsh
CEO
Harris County - Houston Sports Authority
Ryan Walsh brings a wealth of experience in sports venue management and large-scale event coordination to his new role as CEO of the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority (Sports Authority). He previously served as CEO & Executive Director of the Harris County Sports & Convention Corporation (HCSCC), where he led the management of NRG Park — the nation’s premier sports and entertainment complex that includes NRG Stadium, NRG Center, and NRG Arena. Ryan's vision for the Sports Authority includes finding innovative ways to increase the Sports Authority’s financial contributions to the maintenance and development of sports facilities.
When Ryan joined HCSCC in 2017 as Director of Projects and Capital Improvement, he quickly ascended to the top leadership role in 2018, overseeing daily operations and long-term development. Under his leadership, NRG Park became a preferred central hub for major sports events, including the NCAA Division I Men’s Final Four, the College Football Playoff Championship, and the FIFA World Cup in 2026. He played a vital role in operations critical to the annual Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo™, the largest rodeo in the world, as well as the NFL’s Houston Texans' home games and international soccer matches, enhancing the venue’s reputation as a world-class sports destination. Ryan has also expanded NRG Park’s role as a critical element in the region’s disaster response and recovery plans. During his tenure, NRG Park has truly become part of the fabric of the region’s culture and community.
In his new role with the Sports Authority, Ryan will collaborate with partners in the City, County, and with Houston’s professional sports teams. Together with the Sports Authority board, he aims to elevate the area's world class venues to remain competitive in the always changing sports landscape and drive economic impact through high-profile events.
Prior to his leadership role at HCSCC, Ryan served as Special Assistant to Harris County Judge Ed Emmett for eight years, focusing on policy areas such as Emergency Management and Public Health initiatives.
A native Houstonian, Ryan is a proud graduate of the University of Houston, holding degrees in Political Science and Russian. He has served as Chair of the South Main Alliance, a board member of the South Houston Gateway Improvement District, and was actively involved in the Houston 2026 World Cup Bid Committee. Additionally, he is a Senior Fellow of the American Leadership Forum, Class 49, and currently serves on its Board.
Outside of work, Ryan and his wife, Jessica, are avid travelers and outdoor enthusiasts, often exploring the world with their twin daughters and their dog, Benson.
This presentation will give 1.0 of PL credit.
Complimentary garage parking is available.
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