Today we’d like to introduce you to Milton Memphis Howery.
Hi Milton Memphis , it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
’m Milton Howery III, but most people know me as Milton Memphis. I’m a native Memphian, and for the past 16 years I’ve built my career around storytelling, creativity, and strengthening the community that raised me. I started in entertainment back in 2007, working in radio at Bott Radio Network and later producing the Mike and Mandy Morning Show on WRVR 104.5FM. During that same period, I hosted The Jazz Lover on WUMR U-92FM.
After completing my bachelor’s degree in Communications and an associate degree in Computer Engineering simultaneously, I continued to grow in the marketing and entertainment space. In 2011, I was honored by BET as their Top Marketing Rep-Intern, which opened doors for the next chapter of my career.
In 2012, I founded Milton Memphis Entertainment, producing concerts, creative experiences, and the I Am Music series to spotlight local Memphis talent. In 2017, I launched The Link Up Memphis, a networking event rooted in inclusivity and community. What started as a simple idea to bring people together has now connected more than 10,000 Memphians, making it the city’s largest and most diverse networking experience.
Professionally, I’ve had the privilege of serving as the Promotions Manager and Public Spokesperson for Bass Pro Shops at the Pyramid, and later as Vice President of Marketing at Memphis Tourism, where I helped promote Memphis domestically and internationally. Today, I serve as the Vice President of Marketing, Communications, & Events for the Downtown Memphis Commission, where I get to blend every part of my background — entertainment, tourism, community building, and public relations— to help shape the future of Downtown Memphis.
I’ve also been active in professional organizations, serving as President and former Diversity & Inclusion Chair of the Memphis PRSA chapter and on the national PRSA Travel & Tourism Executive Committee. My work has been recognized through honors like the Urban Elite Top 40 Under 40 in 2017 and the Memphis Business Journal Top 40 Under 40 in 2019.
At my core, I’m passionate and deeply loyal to this city. Whether through events, marketing, or community work, everything I do is about championing Memphis and creating spaces where our community can thrive.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I wouldn’t say my journey has been smooth, but it has been blessed. Since finishing college, I’ve been consistently promoted and sought out for new opportunities, and for that, I give Memphis a lot of credit. This city has opened doors for me, believed in me, and given me space to grow.
Early in my career, I learned that being a problem solver and showing up authentically and genuinely while getting things done can take you far. When you lead with character, collaboration, and the desire for everyone to win, people feel that. It creates momentum. It builds trust.
As I’ve advanced in my career, the real challenge hasn’t been about me. It’s been about inspiring others to believe in Memphis. Memphis isn’t behind, yes, we have real challenges, but also we have so much to celebrate and to be proud of
Most of my career has been dedicated to marketing Memphis and attracting people to our city. And through it all, I’ve come to believe that when we put our differences aside and focus on what truly matters, we can move Memphis forward in a meaningful way.
For me, the challenge has never been personal obstacles. The challenge — and the calling — has been how we Memphians see ourselves.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I’m a marketer, storyteller, creative, and connector at heart. My work sits at the intersection of marketing, community, and culture, and I’ve spent the majority of my career championing Memphis — its people, its places, and its possibilities. I specialize in taking ideas, places, and experiences and turning them into something people can feel, something they want to be part of.
I’m known for building relationships, creating inclusive spaces, and bringing people together. From entertainment and tourism to economic development and large-scale public events, my work has always been about elevating the Memphis story and helping others see the value in this city. That includes my role as Vice President of Marketing at the Downtown Memphis Commission and my work as the founder of The Link Up Memphis, which has connected thousands of professionals across the region.
What I’m most proud of is creating platforms and moments that help people feel seen, welcomed, and inspired — whether it’s a networking event that sparks a new opportunity, a marketing campaign that shifts perceptions, or a community event that brings people together in a way that feels meaningful. I’m proud that my work opens doors for others and celebrates the culture that shapes Memphis. What sets me apart is my ability to bring people together — like the hundreds who show up to my monthly networking event — paired with a career that spans marketing, PR, entertainment, tourism, business, and economic development. I’ve learned that you can have the plan, the vision, and all the resources in the world, but if you can’t unite people around it, nothing meaningful can be accomplished.”
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themiltonmemphis/?hl=en
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/milton.howery
