David Brady has been named Chief Executive Officer, American Red Cross of the Texas Gulf Coast. He comes to the Red Cross from the Houston Zoo, where he served as Executive Vice President, Marketing, Communications and Strategic Implementation and Interim CEO.
“We are very pleased that David has joined us,” said Susan McEldoon, KHOU-TV President & General Manager and Chair of the Greater Houston American Red Cross Board of Directors. “Not only does he have strong leadership, fund development and marketing experience from a successful career with non-profit, entertainment and sports organizations, he’s a native Texan with a passion for the well-being of our Gulf Coast communities.”
In his new role, Brady will lead the Red Cross in service delivery, fundraising and stakeholder engagement for a region serving more than nine million people in 51 counties. Prior to joining the Red Cross, he led initiatives for the Houston Zoo that increased annual attendance by 65%, making it the most attended cultural venue in the city. His work there included strategic development around wildlife conservation branding and the creation and implementation of the highly popular Houston Zoo Lights, a holiday experience drawing 320,000 guests in 2016. Prior to the Houston Zoo, Brady was Managing Director for Lone Star Sports and Entertainment, an affiliate of the Houston Texans, where he managed high profile events and developed strong community partnerships. He recently completed his eleventh season as Stadium Announcer for the Texans – an activity he enjoys and plans to continue.
“It’s been a privilege to contribute to these organizations that so greatly impact our community,” said Brady, who grew up in Channelview and attended Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, Texas. “Now I have the opportunity to apply what I’ve learned at an organization that exists solely to prevent and alleviate human suffering. I look forward to working with Red Cross staff, volunteers, partners, donors and friends to ensure we continue to be there for our communities whenever we are needed.”
McEldoon reflected, “David is a positive asset to the Red Cross and I am confident his leadership will impact those we serve in a meaningful way.”