Show-Me State Times

Ron Kitchens has been named the new Chief Executive Officer of Greater St. Louis, Inc., following a national search. Kitchens, who is originally from Ozark, Missouri, currently leads the Wichita Falls Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Texas. He brings more than 30 years of experience in economic development across Michigan, Texas, Alabama, and Missouri.

Andrew C. Taylor, Executive Chairman of Enterprise Mobility and Founding Chair of Greater St. Louis, Inc., commented on the appointment: “We are thrilled to welcome Ron back to Missouri and look forward to the impact he will have on the St. Louis region,” said Taylor. “Ron is a proven leader who has the strategic vision, operational expertise, and deep passion required to lead Greater St. Louis, Inc. into our next chapter.”

Kitchens’ career includes significant achievements such as leading the three largest private-sector investments in Wichita Falls' history and contributing to a major expansion of its local tax base. In his previous role at Southwest Michigan First, he helped reposition that region as an example for innovation and investor-led community leadership.

He also co-founded Consultant Connect—an economic development consulting firm—and established annual awards recognizing North America’s Top 50 Economic Developers.

A graduate of Missouri State University with prior work for former U.S. Senator John Danforth, Kitchens maintains close ties to St. Louis through family connections.

“Over the course of my career, I have had the honor of helping communities rediscover hope, reignite growth, and reimagine what is possible,” said Kitchens. “St. Louis is near and dear to my heart, and I am excited to play a role in building a prosperous future for this region.”

Since its founding in 2021, Greater St. Louis Inc.'s efforts have focused on fostering inclusive economic growth by uniting business and civic leaders throughout the area’s fifteen-county bi-state region. Recent improvements in GDP growth rates as well as increases in personal income and jobs suggest that St. Louis is improving its position among other metropolitan areas nationally.

To maintain this momentum going forward, Greater St. Louis Inc.'s priorities include attracting investment; supporting upgrades at St. Louis Lambert International Airport; revitalizing downtown; growing jobs; increasing population; and making downtown safer.

Kitchens will assume his new duties at Greater St. Louis Inc., starting early November 2025. Dustin Allison has served as Interim CEO since December 2024.

“We want to thank Dustin for stepping in as our interim CEO,” said Taylor. “His commitment to GSL and to St. Louis are unmatched, and we are truly and deeply grateful for his leadership during this period of transition.”