Jim Carman to Move to Howard Hughes Advisory Role
The veteran executive will shift to an advisory position at the company starting in January.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in People
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Jim Carman will transition to an advisory role at Howard Hughes in January 2027 following an internal organizational realignment. Carman has been with the company since 2012, overseeing significant development projects in the region.
Why it matters
This shift marks a major leadership change for the firm, as Carman helped drive billions of dollars in development across the Texas portfolio. Drew Davis will remain as chief operating officer to continue managing the company's major community holdings.
Jim Carman managed over $3 billion in development projects and $1.1 billion in land sales during his tenure. The company’s portfolio includes key Texas communities like The Woodlands, Bridgeland, and The Woodlands Hills.
The players
Jim Carman
He is a long-serving executive at Howard Hughes who has overseen billions in regional land development since 2012.
Drew Davis
He serves as the chief operating officer of Howard Hughes and will continue to manage the company's Texas portfolio.
Howard Hughes
This is a real estate development company responsible for master-planned communities including The Woodlands and Bridgeland.
The details
The change follows a strategic realignment within Howard Hughes, with Drew Davis set to maintain oversight of the firm's major Texas master-planned communities. Carman's departure from his current operational role concludes a tenure that began over a decade ago.
Timeline
2012: Jim Carman joined Howard Hughes.
August 23, 2021: Carman sent a letter regarding community incorporation.
November 2, 2021: Voters rejected the incorporation of The Woodlands.
January 2027: Jim Carman will transition to an advisory role.
Market Landscape
This leadership shift follows the firm’s historical navigation of the local political environment, specifically the November 2, 2021, failed incorporation vote in The Woodlands. The move positions the company to maintain operational continuity under COO Drew Davis.
The leadership change is unlikely to alter current residential services or development plans in The Woodlands, Bridgeland, or The Woodlands Hills. Residents should expect continued management of their communities under the existing leadership team.
The takeaway
The transition represents a shift in corporate structure rather than a change in community strategy. Residents and stakeholders can anticipate a stable transition as operational management remains with established leadership.
Further reading
For more information on local leadership changes, visit The Woodlands People.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Houston Chronicle.
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