North Texas Commission Hires Chris Wallace as President and CEO

Wallace Brings Deep Knowledge of Region, Vast Experience in Austin to 47-Year-Old Organization

North Texas – The North Texas Commission has hired Chris Wallace, President and Chief Operating Officer of the Texas Association of Business, to be its next President and CEO. Wallace succeeds James D. Spaniolo, who late last year announced his intent to retire.

“Chris joining the North Texas Commission is a major step forward for our new North Texas Advocacy Coalition,” said Chuck Allen, Chairman of the North Texas Commission’s Board of Directors “Not only is he an established advocate for business through his work with TAB, but he comes with deep regional knowledge and strong relationships through his 10 years leading the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber of Commerce.”

During the 86th Texas Legislature, Wallace worked tirelessly to ensure that Texas remained business-friendly. Additionally, in his role at TAB, he oversaw operations including membership, marketing, strategy as well as board and chamber relations, and led the organization’s successful efforts to defeat discriminatory and unnecessary legislation. He also has successfully built coalitions to advocate for the reauthorization of the Export-Import Bank, transportation funding, and the importance of NAFTA.

Prior to joining TAB, Wallace was the President/CEO of the Greater Irving-Las Colinas Chamber, the third largest chamber in North Texas and the first national Five-Star Accredited Chamber in Texas. He is among only 535 executives in the nation who have earned their Certified Chamber Executive designation.

“I’m honored to have an opportunity to return home to work closely with the businesses, municipalities and higher education institutions that make up the membership of the North Texas Commission,” said Wallace. “Among the Commission’s key initiatives and programs, the North Texas Advocacy Coalition fulfills an especially timely, important mission of strengthening and amplifying the voices of regional stakeholders during critical policy discussions in Austin and in D.C. I’m eager to play a part in that effort and to support change and the continued growth and success of North Texas.”

Wallace takes the helm of the North Texas Commission on June 18, and will be the organization’s 10th President and CEO.

Established in 1971, the North Texas Commission is a public-private partnership of businesses, cities, counties, chambers of commerce, economic development entities and higher education institutions in the North Texas Region. The North Texas Commission convenes stakeholders, educates and advocates in support of regional priorities that advance the vibrancy of North Texas.

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