Chris Ballou currently serves as an Associate for LW Hospitality Advisors®, bringing more than 20 years of experience in a wide range of hospitality operations, valuation, asset management, advisory, and development services. In addition to his valuation and feasibility work, he currently is actively asset managing an outdoor waterpark asset in New England. Prior to joining LWHA, he served a similar role with Hotel & Leisure Advisors, conducting appraisals, market feasibility studies, and economic impact studies throughout the United States. Included among these engagements are a mix of indoor waterpark resort and outdoor waterpark analyses.

Mr. Ballou has an extensive background in hospitality operations, both as General Manager for multiple Great Wolf Lodge resorts and as a previous board member of Convention and Visitors bureaus in both Sandusky, OH, and Traverse City, MI. He also has a strong financial background from his time spent in financial management with Great Wolf Resorts, a Sheraton full-service hotel, and a Six Flags Amusement Park.

Mr. Ballou obtained a Bachelor of Business Administration from Kent State University and is a state licensed Certified General Real Estate Appraiser in Ohio. In addition, he holds a Certification in Hotel Industry Analytics and is an IAAPA Certified Attractions Executive.