SW Houston News

Houston Mayor John Whitmire has appointed Jay Zeidman as the new Board Chairman of Houston First Corporation (HFC), pending City Council approval. Zeidman, a venture capital executive, has been serving on the board of HFC since 2017 and has played a crucial role in securing the 2028 Republican National Convention for Houston.

Mayor Whitmire expressed his confidence in Zeidman's appointment, stating, "I'm pleased to appoint Jay to this important post with one of our city's leading organizations. Houston First has consistently shown its capacity to do big things and positively promote Houston around the world."

Zeidman, the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Altitude Ventures, a healthcare-focused investment firm, is honored to serve as the Chairman of the Board of Houston First. He expressed his gratitude to Mayor Whitmire, saying, "I have long been impressed with the incredible management team and people at Houston First, and look forward to supporting the Mayor, our outstanding CEO Michael Heckman, and the entire team in order to execute a bold vision for the future."

Houston First is a local government corporation responsible for promoting Houston as a destination for tourism and conventions. The organization also manages various City-owned assets, including the George R. Brown Convention Center and several major performing arts venues and green spaces. HFC's efforts have been instrumental in leading the post-pandemic recovery of the travel and hospitality sector in the Houston metro region.

Under Zeidman's leadership, Houston First aims to reimagine the George R. Brown Convention Center and its surrounding district, utilizing SB 1057. The organization has already achieved significant milestones, with the convention sales team booking 419 meetings for future years in the first nine months of 2023, compared to 321 meetings in the same period in 2022. Notable events booked include the international energy conference Gastech and the 2028 Republican National Convention.

Mayor Whitmire acknowledged the outgoing Chairman, David Mincberg, who served in the role since 2016. Mincberg played a critical role in leading Houston First through a challenging period. His resignation, effective January 2, 2024, was accepted by Mayor Whitmire, who thanked Mincberg for his service to the organization and to Houston.

Houston First Corporation continues to solidify Houston as a premier national and global destination, showcasing the city's vibrancy, culture, culinary scene, performing arts, medical and space innovation, and elite filming locations. For more information about Houston First Corporation, visit their website at www.houstonfirst.com.