Most Influential Bostonians of 2025
→ $959 million economic impact in 2024
→ $95 million annual operating budget
Hired last year for the quasi-public post once held by Jim Rooney (see #27), Vernon oversees both Boston convention centers and the popular Lawn on D, among other well-loved city spots. He now plays a leading role in the flow of visitors through Boston—and their spending. One of his big tasks is to ensure the wealth gets spread equitably to local minority- and women-owned businesses; this commitment to equity is why Sheena Collier (see #79) cochaired the selection committee that hired him.