Three hires bring experience, collaboration, and innovation to the organization
HOUSTON—The Harris County-Houston Sports Authority is making bold moves to elevate Houston as the premier global sports city, adding three dynamic leaders to its executive team.
Joining the HCHSA staff are Holly Kesterson, who has been hired as Chief Operating Officer; Sydney Jones as Chief Development Officer; and Alva Treviño, who will serve as the organization’s first General Counsel.
“Bringing Holly, Sydney, and Alva onto our executive leadership team is a game-changer for HCHSA and for the Houston-Harris County community,” said Ryan Walsh, CEO of the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority. “Their expertise, energy, and vision will help us take our mission to the next level—creating an elevated era of collaboration and transparency, strengthening the partnerships with our stakeholders, and ensuring Houston and Harris County remain the leading destination for sports venues and events.”
Kesterson returns to the HCHSA as Chief Operating Officer after recently serving as President and Co-Founder of Relevant Worldwide, a marketing and events agency based in Houston. Before her time at Relevant, Kesterson was a key member of the HCHSA team for nearly nine years, specializing in sales and event management and leading numerous highprofile events, including youth, collegiate, professional, and international competitions.
Kesterson also served as President of the 2023 NCAA Men’s Final Four Houston Local Organizing Committee, which helped impact the city’s sports landscape and set new standards for the NCAA Tournament for years to come.
“I am thrilled to return to the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority as Chief Operating Officer, bringing my passion and experience back to a space I truly love,” said Kesterson. “With the dynamic leadership of Ryan Walsh and Juan Garcia, I am excited to help elevate Houston’s standing in the sports and events landscape, working together with our teams, stakeholders, and community to drive continued success and growth.”
Treviño joins the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority as General Counsel after serving as Executive Vice President and General Counsel for METRO, an organization she worked with for nearly three decades. Treviño’s years of experience in public law and community initiatives and her respected legal track record will be an asset for the HCHSA as it commits to greater accountability and transparency.
“It is so exciting to join the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority and be a part of its mission of providing world-class sports venues and events,” said Treviño. “I love joining an outstanding team that represents the best of the Houston region and is instrumental in highlighting our great city on the world stage.”
Jones joins the HCHSA team following her work with the College Football Playoff National Championship Houston Host Committee, where she played a key role in managing strategic partnerships. She also led planning efforts for the 2024 Lombardi Award, bringing strong project management and event coordination experience to the organization.
Thanks to her experience at the collegiate administration level, Jones will bring added insight into developing and diversifying business opportunities and project management.
“I want to thank Ryan Walsh, the Board of Directors, the HCHSA, and our wonderful team for this incredible opportunity,” said Jones. “I am humbled and ecstatic to serve Houston and Harris County; working for one of the country’s best sports commissions to ensure continued success for the entire region.”
