The Center for Houston’s Future, an organization at the forefront of shaping the metropolis's trajectory, has announced David Gow as its new president and CEO. Gow, known for his media influence as the founder and chairman of Gow Media — the parent company of CultureMap and InnovationMap — steps into his role on September 3, succeeding Brett Perlman. "I am excited to step into this opportunity with the Center and work with the team, the board and many other stakeholders to help shape Houston’s future," Gow expressed in a news release cited by InnovationMap.

This leadership transition echoes the Center's commitment to propelling the city forward, underscored by Perlman's continued involvement with its clean hydrogen initiative. “David’s portfolio of experiences and skills, record of innovation and success, and deep commitment to the Houston community make him the perfect fit to lead the Center as we chart and execute on our next set of initiatives focused on ensuring a bright future for all residents in the Houston region,” stated Cindy Yeilding, Board Chair of the Center for Houston’s Future, in a statement obtained by CultureMap. Gow's eclectic background includes tenure as CFO and CEO of Ashford.com, director of corporate strategy at Compaq Computers, and as a consultant at McKinsey & Co.

With a master’s from Harvard and a bachelor's from Williams College, Gow's ascent is not merely a career evolution but is also a reflection of a personal dedication to Houston's growth. His imminent task as the Center’s head involves spearheading Vision 2050, an ambitious initiative aimed at pinpointing key issues, identifying gaps, and seizing opportunities for the city's long-term benefit.

 “The Center presents an exciting opportunity to cast a vision for our region and identify initiatives that will make an impact,” Gow told InnovationMap. The firm commitment to Houston's potential is further substantiated by the recent success of the Center's clean hydrogen program, a benchmark in both strategy and sustainability for urban futures. "On behalf of the Center’s board, I’d also like to recognize Brett for launching and building such a successful and important effort as well as his overall leadership and record of achievement at the Center these past seven years," added Yeilding in her acknowledgment of Perlman's contributions.