Brian Kearney, Chief Operating Officer

Brian Kearney has enjoyed a rewarding career, having held management and executive-level positions in diverse public, non-profit, and private sector organizations.

Brian currently serves as Chief Operating Officer for MC Companies, a nationally recognized multifamily real estate investment, development, and management company. Brian began his career in 1987 with the City of Phoenix, where his responsibilities included serving as project manager for the development of America West Arena (now Footprint Center), leading business attraction activities, and heading the City’s downtown redevelopment program. In 1998, he was appointed President and CEO of the Downtown Phoenix Partnership, where he led a public-private partnership charged with managing, marketing, and facilitating the revitalization of Downtown Phoenix.  In 2007, Brian moved to the multifamily sector, serving initially as Chief Operating Officer and later President of Gray Development, a leading developer named Arizona’s #1 multifamily developer ten times. In 2015, Brian launched Catellus Development Corporation’s efforts as master developer for Arizona State University’s Athletic Facilities District, now known as the Novus Innovation Corridor. Through a public-private partnership with the nation’s “Most Innovative University”, Catellus oversees the development of more than ten million square feet of sustainable private development, including mid- and high-rise offices; urban housing; hotels; and retail, restaurant, and entertainment spaces. Most recently, he served as Chief Operating Officer for Greenlight Communities, a multi-family developer focused on developing and constructing non-subsidized attainably priced rental housing.

Brian has been active in numerous community and professional organizations over the years, including the boards of directors of the Herberger Theater Center, Phoenix Theater, Arizona Science Center, Downtown Phoenix YMCA, City of Phoenix Bond Committee, Lambda Alpha, and International Downtown Association. He also has co-chaired the Arizona Multihousing Association’s Developer Committee.  He lives in Phoenix with his wife, Karin, and has three grown sons and four grandchildren. Brian earned a Political Science degree from Colorado State University and a Master of Public Administration from Texas A&M University.