Katy Area Economic Development Council Announces New VP

KATY, TX -- The Katy Area Economic Development Council is pleased to announce Rick Ellis as its new Vice President of Economic Development, bringing over 18 years of marketing, sales, and corporate relations experience to the Katy Area EDC team.

“We are very excited to bring Rick on as our new Vice President,” said Lance LaCour, President/CEO of the Katy Area EDC. “He has a wealth of experience in business development and marketing which is a great fit for our organization and the growth of the Katy area.”

Ellis will be replacing Frank Lombard, who will be voluntarily moving from his full-time position as Vice President to Director of Membership, a part-time position. Lombard has been with the organization since 2006, briefly serving as interim President/CEO of Katy Area EDC prior to the arrival of current President/CEO Lance LaCour.

“Frank has been a tremendous asset to our organization,” said LaCour. “Without his leadership and dedication, our organization would not be what it is today. We look forward to his continued role with our organization.”

Ellis is a Houston native and near lifelong Texan with an array of professional experience spanning the real estate, economic development, family entertainment, and senior living arenas. Rick’s experience in economic development originates with his work with the Greater Houston Partnership’s Economic Development Division where his responsibilities revolved around working with companies and site selectors in encouraging corporate relocations to the greater Houston area and 11 surrounding counties. Prior to his marketing and sales endeavors, Ellis worked in the built environment industry as a construction project manager and a real estate property manager and leasing associate. In addition to his professional career, Mr. Ellis has served as a Director on the Interstate Municipal Utility District board for 10 years and is an active representative of MUD boards in the Katy area.

Ellis is a proud graduate of Texas A&M University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Construction Science and a Master of Science degree in Land and Real Estate Development. Rick is a 30-year member of the Texas A&M Century Club, and is recognized as a Life Member of the Greater Houston Partnership for his volunteer work as a Major Investor Ambassador.

“Having lived in the Houston area for the better part of 50 years, it has been amazing to witness up close the incredible transformation of Katy from a small, outskirt town to the thriving community it is today,” Rick said. “I am excited to join the Katy Area EDC team and look forward to working with the Katy community and businesses to further promote growth and quality of life in the area.”

Rick and his wife Kelly have two teenage daughters, Erin and Shea, who are very active in sporting and school activities. When not supporting his girls at volleyball, soccer, or basketball tournaments, Ellis likes to read, loves to cook, enjoys music, has a passionate interest in Irish culture and is a devout Jimmy Buffett Parrothead.

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