PROGRAM DESCRIPTION
Baltimore CFOs are operating in a business environment shaped by evolving tax policy, state and local legislation, workforce dynamics, real estate and development incentives, infrastructure priorities, and broader economic pressures. This session gives CFOs a practical forum to understand the issues affecting business decisions in Baltimore and across Maryland, including current tax updates, legislative changes, local incentives, compliance considerations, and the financial implications of operating in the city.
Participants will discuss how these developments affect planning, capital allocation, cost management, risk, growth strategy, and stakeholder communication. The session will also provide space for CFOs to compare experiences, share practical wisdom, and build connections with peers navigating the same Baltimore business landscape.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Identify key Maryland and Baltimore tax updates that may affect business planning, ownership structure, investment, and cash flow decisions.
- Understand recent and emerging legislative changes that influence operating costs, compliance, incentives, development, workforce strategy, and risk management.
- Evaluate how local business conditions, including talent, real estate, infrastructure, public policy, and economic development programs, shape CFO decision-making.
- Connect policy and market developments to strategic planning, budgeting, capital allocation, and communication with CEOs, boards, and investors.
- Exchange insight and practical experience with peer CFOs doing business in Baltimore and Maryland.
SPEAKERS
Mark Anthony Thomas | President & CEO | Greater Baltimore Committee
Mark Anthony Thomas is President & CEO of the Greater Baltimore Committee (GBC), the Baltimore Region’s business-civic leadership organization and regional economic development
entity. Since December 2022, he has led a period of renewal and strategic alignment, strengthening GBC’s ability to bring business, government, and philanthropy together around
execution and shared regional priorities.
During his first three years, Mark oversaw the integration of BLocal and UpSurge Baltimore into GBC, unifying efforts focused on inclusive hiring and procurement, entrepreneurship, and
innovation. He led the creation of the Baltimore Region’s first 10-Year Economic Opportunity Plan and the launch of a unified regional brand. Under his leadership, the region secured a
federal Tech Hub designation, advancing Baltimore’s role in biomanufacturing and emerging technology. He also helped galvanize business and philanthropic leaders in response to the
collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, while advancing regional efforts related to vacant housing and major transportation and infrastructure investments.
Mark previously served as President of the Pittsburgh Regional Alliance, leading business attraction and expansion across the city and a 10-county region and supporting more than a
hundred business and development projects. In New York City, he was Senior Vice President of Partnerships at the New York City Economic Development Corporation, where he built the city’s global industry and international engagement strategy. In Los Angeles, he served as Director of the Mayor’s Operations Innovation Team, overseeing a privately funded effort focused on procurement reform, real estate strategy, risk management, and cross-department collaboration.
Mark holds an MBA from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and an MPA from Columbia University’s School of International and Public Affairs. He serves on the boards of the
International Economic Development Council, FUSE Corps, and the Baltimore Metropolitan Council.
Mark began his career in the creative sector, where his grounding in media, narrative, and cultural work continues to inform his leadership—shaping how he approaches place, institutions, and public purpose.
EVENT POLICIES AND RESOURCES
Please visit our Events Policies and Resources page for information about chapter leadership, support, CPE, attendance, cancelations and more.
SPONSOR PARTNERS
Thank you to our valued Sponsor Partners. This event is open to members, sponsors, and special guests.
