Montgomery County Food Bank Leadership Transition

THE WOODLANDS, TX -- The Montgomery County Food Bank Board of Directors today announced a planned leadership transition as President and CEO Kristine Marlow concludes a nearly six-year tenure defined by transformative growth, strengthened community partnerships, and unprecedented impact. Following a selection process, the Board named Scott Burns, currently the Food Bank’s Vice President of Growth, as the organization’s next CEO.

Marlow joined the Food Bank in 2020 at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic and immediately led the organization through a period of historic demand. Under her leadership, the Food Bank not only responded to crisis but emerged stronger, deepening its role as a recognized leader in Montgomery County and uniting stakeholders in the fight against hunger. Kristine also serves in the national hunger relief arena and was appointed to Feeding America’s National Council, where she contributes to shaping national strategy and priorities in the fight against hunger.

During her tenure, the Food Bank significantly expanded its reach and impact, growing from serving neighbors an average of 55,000 times per month to more than 90,000 times per month in 2025. This growth reflects both increasing community need and the strength of a network of more than 90 partner agencies, along with dedicated volunteers, donors and corporate partners working together to ensure no neighbor is without food.

Marlow also led the organization through multiple disasters, including the pandemic, hurricanes and winter storms, strengthening partnerships with the local disaster response agencies and mobilizing thousands of volunteers to deliver critical food and water to families across the county.

Her leadership culminated in the completion of the $6.5 million Build Today, Feed Tomorrow capital campaign and the opening of an 18,000-square-foot facility expansion in 2025, increasing capacity to provide 1 million additional meals annually.

“Kristine’s leadership has been nothing short of transformative,” said Jim Carman, Chairman for the Montgomery County Food Bank Board of Directors and President of the Texas Region for Howard Hughes Communities™. “She did not just guide the Food Bank through times of crisis. She elevated its role across Montgomery County. The Food Bank today is stronger and more deeply rooted in this community than ever before. Her impact will be felt for generations, and while we will miss her leadership, we are grateful for all she has built and support this next chapter.”

“It has been the greatest honor of my life to serve as President and CEO of Montgomery County Food Bank,” said Kristine Marlow. “What makes this organization so special is how our community comes together to fight hunger. I am deeply grateful to our Board of Directors, whose leadership and support have been instrumental, and to our team and partners who live out this mission every day. Guided by my faith, I have always believed that every neighbor deserves to be treated with dignity, compassion, and respect.

As I step away to prioritize time with my family, I do so knowing the Food Bank is in excellent hands. I have worked closely with Scott and am confident he will continue to lead this exceptional and dedicated team with heart, vision, and a deep commitment to our community.”

Scott Burns joined the Food Bank as Vice President of Growth in January 2025, leading marketing, development, and volunteer services.

A graduate of the United States Air Force Academy and a former military officer and pilot, Burns brings more than two decades of executive leadership experience from Fortune 500 companies. Prior to joining the Food Bank, he held senior leadership roles at NRG Energy and Reliant, where he led innovation, customer experience, and market intelligence teams.

Burns is a former Board Chair for Houston Habitat for Humanity and is a member of the Leadership Montgomery County Class of 2026.

“I am humbled to follow in Kristine’s footsteps,” Burns said. “The foundation she has laid is incredibly strong. My focus will be on maintaining the momentum we have built, honoring our commitment to more than 90 partner agencies and ensuring the Food Bank remains a reliable source of hope for every neighbor experiencing food insecurity in Montgomery County.”

Photos