Chad Emerson

Chad Emerson is a dynamic urban development professional who served as the founding CEO of Downtown Huntsville, Inc. (DHI) from 2013 to 2022.12 During his nearly decade-long tenure, he was instrumental in transforming Huntsville's downtown into a thriving cultural and commercial center.2

Professional Background:

• Former CEO of Downtown Huntsville, Inc. (2013-2022)13
• Previously served as director of city development for Montgomery, Alabama1
• Consulted for over 30 cities on downtown and urban redevelopment strategies1
• Formerly a law professor at the Thomas Goode Jones School of Law at Faulkner University1
• Holds a law degree from the University of Tennessee2

Key Achievements: Emerson led DHI to significant successes, including:

• Winning multiple International Downtown Association awards
• Helping Huntsville rank as the #1 city in America to live by U.S. News & World Report1
• Preserving downtown businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic2
• Introducing innovative events like food truck rallies, Downtown Open mini golf, and the Secret Art Trail2

Current Role: In 2022, Emerson transitioned to become the Managing Director of Business Operations for the Huntsville MLS NEXT Pro soccer team14, bringing his urban development expertise to sports management.