Nationwide search nets local Mike Ambre as The Point executive director

The Point of the Mountain State Land Authority board has announced the appointment of Mike Ambre as executive director of The Point, a 600-acre planned community at the former site of the Utah State Prison in southern Salt Lake County. The appointment follows a nationwide search.

“Ambre has a proven track record of exceptional leadership managing large-scale public projects,” the board said in a release. “As the executive director, Ambre will oversee all aspects of the 600-acre development, ensuring it continues to reflect Utahns’ vision and values. His unwavering commitment to innovation has led to his reputation as a leader who challenges the status quo and relentlessly pursues opportunities for improvement, making him a leader capable of adeptly navigating the development-related complexities of The Point.”

Since 2023, Ambre has served on the Land Authority board as the division director for the Utah Division of Facilities Construction and Management (DFCM). Ambre worked in various capacities ranging from project manager to division director. During his 24-year tenure at DFCM, he oversaw construction of both the new Utah State Correctional Facility, recently opened near the Salt Lake City International Airport, and demolition of the decades-old Utah State Prison. For the past two years, Ambre has been actively managing all site preparations at The Point for the construction of infrastructure.

“As we move forward expeditiously with developing The Point, Mike is exactly the right person at the right time. He is an accomplished and results-driven leader with a distinguished career marked by expertise in innovative construction management and delivery,” said state representative and Land Authority co-chair Jordan Teuscher. “His leadership has already proven immensely valuable to the success of The Point, and we are confident that he will hit the ground running on Day One.”

Ambre’s appointment comes at a time when extensive work has already been successfully completed at The Point. The Utah Legislature has allocated $165 million to fund backbone infrastructure, which is scheduled for construction as early as next year. In addition, the Utah Legislature has appropriated $250 million to build a potential new FrontRunner commuter rail station and plans are underway to extend additional transit service through the site.

Ambre will report directly to the Land Authority and lead a team of staff, consultants and partners. His duties entail overseeing all aspects of development, including the utilization of public financing tools, negotiations with developers, adherence to design guidelines, development agreements and tenant attraction. In addition, he will ensure compliance with applicable laws and regulations, manage finances and budgeting and oversee public engagement efforts.

“The Point executive director position is an opportunity of a lifetime. I am both humbled and honored that the board has appointed me,” said Ambre. “I have dedicated my entire career to serving the public. This role aligns with my life’s work and passion to improve Utahns’ quality of life by building vibrant communities we all can enjoy. I hope to utilize my skills and experience to leave a lasting legacy that will benefit Utahns for generations.”