About Okpara Young
Executive Counselor
Okpara Young is a senior technology executive with more than two decades of leadership experience in professional sports, live entertainment, and integrated venue operations. A two-time ORBIE Houston CIO of the Year finalist, recognized by the Houston Business Journal in 2020 and 2022, he brings a proven record of technology leadership in complex, high-visibility operating environments. Through his leadership with the Houston Rockets and Toyota Center, he has guided IT strategy, cybersecurity, infrastructure modernization, digital fan engagement, F&B and retail technology, high-density connectivity, vendor management, and event-day operations for a high-volume guest environment serving more than 18,000 attendees per event. His background translates naturally to advising IT executives across sports, hospitality, casinos, and integrated resorts, where technology must support secure operations, premium guest experiences, revenue generation, and always-on service delivery. He holds an MBA and MIS in Business & Information Systems from the University of Houston–Clear Lake.