Owen Rock EVP for Economic Development
Partnership Lake Houston Welcomes Owen Rock as Executive Vice President of Economic Development
Lake Houston, TX — Partnership Lake Houston is proud to announce the appointment of Owen Rock as its new Executive Vice President of Economic Development. With more than 25 years of experience driving growth, investment, and revitalization initiatives across Texas and the Midwest, Owen brings a proven track record in business recruitment, public-private partnerships, and downtown redevelopment.
Owen has held senior-level economic development roles in several cities, including South Bend, IN; Oklahoma City and Stillwater, OK; and League City and Elgin, TX. Among his most notable accomplishments are the redevelopment of South Bend’s historic Studebaker plant in collaboration with the University of Notre Dame and the development of a 60-acre business park in Elgin, funded in part by a federal Economic Development Administration (EDA) grant.
“Out of more than 125 applicants for the position of Vice President of Economic Development, Owen clearly stood out as the top professional to carry forward the impactful work we’ve been engaged in for over a century,” said Ray Hernandez, President and CEO of Partnership Lake Houston. “His deep expertise and forward-thinking approach will be instrumental in advancing our mission to foster economic prosperity throughout the greater Lake Houston region.”
Originally from Dublin, Ireland, Owen holds a Master’s degree in Regional and Urban Planning from the London School of Economics, as well as a Bachelor’s degree from Oklahoma State University. He is a Certified Economic Development Finance Professional and a graduate of the University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute.
Beyond his public-sector work, Owen is also an entrepreneur. Alongside his wife, Hallie, he co-founded Murphy’s Mellows, a gourmet marshmallow company. They currently reside in Texas with their son, Dylan, a student at the University of Texas.
“I’m excited to join Partnership Lake Houston because it brings together my professional passion for economic development with my personal commitment to building strong, resilient communities,” said Rock. “This organization’s collaborative spirit and mission to attract, retain, and expand businesses in the region align perfectly with my background and values. I look forward to contributing to projects that not only drive economic growth but also enhance the quality of life for Lake Houston residents. Most of all, I’m eager to work alongside community leaders, businesses, and stakeholders to shape a vibrant and sustainable future for the region.”