Houston Zoo Names Inaugural Chief Brand and Experience Officer

The Houston Zoo announced today that Creighton Kahoalii will serve as its inaugural Chief Brand and Experience Officer (CBEO). Kahoalii brings more than two decades of experience connecting Houston communities to meaningful experiences, most recently as Senior Vice President of Affiliate Business Operations with the Houston Astros. The search was led by Shelli Herman and Associates, Inc., based in Los Angeles.

The Chief Brand and Experience Officer is a newly created senior executive role designed to strengthen the Zoo’s guest experience, advance its brand, and grow the earned revenue strategies that fuel its community connection and wildlife conservation mission. Kahoalii will report directly to Lisa Peterson, President and CEO, and will start on April 7.

“Our mission is to connect communities with wildlife,” said Lisa Peterson, President and CEO. “Creighton has spent his career building experiences that bring people together, investing in community, and creating lasting connections between organizations and the cities they serve. He knows Houston. He understands what moves people here. And he is the right leader to deepen that connection.”

Kahoalii joined the Houston Astros in 2012 and held a series of senior leadership roles over more than a decade, including Vice President of Corporate Partnerships and Vice President of Ticket Sales and Service. As SVP of Affiliate Business Operations, he oversaw the business operations of the Astros’ minor league affiliates, leading investment in fan experience, community partnerships, and brand identity across multiple markets. Prior to the Astros, he held sales and service leadership positions with the Sacramento River Cats and the New Orleans Hornets. A former collegiate baseball player at the University of Hawaii and UC Berkeley, Kahoalii has called Houston home for more than a decade.

“I’m honored to join a world-class institution that does so much for the Houston community and conservation worldwide,” said Kahoalii. “The Zoo has a special ability to bring people together and provide enjoyment for the benefit of conservation and education. I look forward to working alongside the team to help ensure our experiences invite deeper engagement and connection to the Zoo’s mission.”