TalentRise Recruits CEO for the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park
September 19, 2025 – After a national search, TalentRise has assisted in the recruitment of Brian Luallen as the new CEO of the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park. “We are proud to have partnered with the board of directors at the Naval Park to identify a leader who will honor the park’s legacy while positioning it for long-term success,” said Peter Petrella, president of TalentRise. “Brian’s proven ability to transform historic and cultural institutions into vibrant, sustainable destinations made him the ideal choice to lead the Buffalo Naval Park. His record of securing significant public and private funding, combined with a deep passion for community engagement, will be instrumental in advancing the park’s mission and broadening its impact.”
Board chairman, retired U.S. Air Force Colonel Robert Pecoraro, noted that this transition marks an important chapter in the park’s history, building on the strong foundation laid by outgoing CEO Paul Marzello. “Leadership is not just about steering the ship, it’s about charting the course,” said Mr. Pecoraro. “Mr. Paul Marzello has done both with brilliance. As Mr. Brian Luallen takes the helm, we’re excited about the journey ahead. The Naval Park is a vital part of Western New York’s history and identity. Under Brian’s leadership, the park is poised to thrive as both a cherished community landmark and a must-visit destination for guests from across the globe.”
Mr. Luallen brings experience heading historic and cultural institutions across the nation, most recently leading the Surf Ballroom & Museum, a National Historic Landmark in Clear Lake, Iowa, where he guided major capital projects and advanced public-private partnerships. Prior to that, he was the inaugural CEO of Fair Park First in Dallas, TX, overseeing the revitalization of the 277-acre National Historic Landmark campus that hosts over six million visitors annually. He also served as director of attractions and entertainment events for the Queen Mary in Long Beach, CA, one of the most celebrated retired ocean liners in the world and a former troopship for the U.S. Navy, where he produced exhibitions, large-scale festivals, concerts, and signature holiday events that became major revenue drivers.
In his new role, Mr. Luallen will work closely with the board, staff, and regional stakeholders to enhance the park’s visibility, expand programming, and strengthen its role as a cornerstone of military history and tourism in the region.
“It is an incredible honor to join the Buffalo Naval & Military Park, a place that stands as both a living memorial and a center for education and community engagement,” said Mr. Luallen. “Throughout my career, I’ve been committed to preserving and activating historic destinations that bring their stories to life in ways that inspire future generations. I look forward to working alongside the talented staff, dedicated volunteers, and generous supporters to ensure the Park continues to honor our veterans, preserve our maritime heritage, and serve as a world-class destination on Buffalo’s waterfront.”
Largest Inland Naval Park
The Buffalo & Erie County Naval & Military Park is the largest inland naval park in the United States. It features four renowned vessels: USS Little Rock, USS The Sullivans, USS Croaker, and PTF-17, representing distinct eras and achievements in American military history.
Related: TalentRise Recruits CEO for the YWCA of Western New York
Founded in 2008 in Chicago, TalentRise provides executive search, interim executive placement, and talent consulting. The firm’s talent optimization model uses data-driven insights to align people and organizational strategies for optimum performance. TalentRise supports companies in nearly every vertical — retail, manufacturing, technology, financial services, healthcare, life sciences, E-commerce, and more — with custom and comprehensive talent acquisition solutions.
As president, Mr. Petrella oversees company strategy, drives growth initiatives, and enhances TalentRise’s service offerings to meet the needs of their diverse client base. He plays a critical role in the TalentRise growth plan by cultivating C-level, investor, and board of director relationships with companies looking to acquire senior leadership talent for their business. Mr. Petrella brings over 23 years of experience in a variety of business sectors including sports, healthcare, startups, scaleups, and technology. His areas of expertise include management, sales, marketing, IT, software, and strategy.
Chief People Officer Search
TalentRise recently assisted in the recruitment of Shannon Struzik as the new chief people officer of SWBR in Rochester, NY. “Wishing Shannon Struzik greater responsibilities and exciting challenges in this impressive new chapter,” the organization said. “SWBR has warmly welcomed Shannon Struzik as new chief people officer, marking a significant step in the firm’s ongoing commitment to cultivating a people-first culture. Struzik arrives with over 20 years of rich leadership experience spanning organizational development, strategic planning, and employee engagement, all shaped by her deep passion for aligning human potential with business vision. With a leadership style rooted in empathy, clarity, and transformation, she is poised to drive SWBR’s human capital strategy to new heights.”
SWBR is an architecture, engineering, and design firm that provides integrated services across markets such as education, housing, workplace, industrial, and community spaces. The firm offers expertise in architecture, interior design, structural engineering, landscape architecture, and sustainable design. Founded in 1969, SWBR serves clients throughout the Northeast and is recognized for its collaborative approach, focusing on functionality, innovation, and long-term value in the built environment.
Related: TalentRise Recruits Executive Director for the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural National Historic Site
Contributed by Scott A. Scanlon, Editor-in-Chief and Dale M. Zupsansky, Executive Editor – Hunt Scanlon Media
