Chris Ballard

Interim President & CEO

Biography

Chris Ballard began his tenure at Memorial Park Conservancy (MPC) and the role of Chief Operating Officer in October 2023. In this capacity, he oversaw the Park Operations and Financial Management Divisions while also being a key member of the Senior Leadership Team. During his time at MPC, Ballard has forged relationships with key donors and Park partners, including the Kinder Foundation, Houston Parks & Recreation Department, the City of Houston, Harris County Precinct 4 and Uptown Houston. Chris assumed the position of Interim President & CEO on November 1, 2024.

Ballard came to Memorial Park Conservancy following a comprehensive nationwide search. The MPC Board and Staff Leadership selected Ballard for the role of COO because of his extensive relevant operations experience, track record of career growth and success, strong people leadership skills, and professional values that closely align with those of MPC. His eagerness to learn and grow, along with his dedication to helping MPC realize its future, made him the ideal candidate.

A native Texan, Chris Ballard brings a wealth of experience as a seasoned leader adept in overseeing operations, facilities, finances and personnel. Over the past decade, Ballard has made notable contributions to collegiate athletics and leadership in higher education at Abilene Christian University (ACU). In his most recent position as ACU’s Associate Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Athletics, he provided supervision and leadership for the Athletics Department’s business office, human resources, facilities, event operations, compliance, academics and sports medicine, serving 17 Division I teams and 375 student-athletes.

Ballard earned his undergraduate degree from Abilene Christian University and later obtained a Master of Education in Sports and Recreation Management from Hardin-Simmons University. After completing his studies, he returned to ACU for more than ten years, ultimately ascending through the ranks to become the COO of the Athletics Department.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Chris is a devoted family man, having been married to his wife Aubrey for 16 years, with whom he shares three children.