Texas Border Business
By DAVID A. DÍAZ
Julián Álvarez, a longtime member of the Texas Workforce Commission who represented the interests of more than 14 million Texans, recently completed his leadership role with that state agency to become Senior Vice President and Director of Business Development for Lone Star National Bank, according to the board of directors for the community bank system.
“Commissioner Álvarez, continuously traveled the great state of Texas to champion the needs of the world-class Texas workforce,” said TWC Commissioner Representing Employers Aaron Demerson. “His focus on developing our workforce helped create a robust pipeline of talent for our employers. Congratulations to Commissioner Álvarez on his next step and thank you for your service to our working Texans.”
In addition to business development, Álvarez’ duties will also include oversight of the bank’s community outreach efforts.
He began his duties on Friday, December 16, 2022.
In general, an outreach program aims to help, uplift, and support those who are deprived of certain services and rights. It involves giving learning, social planning, and other ways to build more paths for the betterment of society.
“Julian couldn’t be better suited for this position and we are so proud to have him on our team,” S. David Deanda, Jr., President, Lone Star National Bank President, announced on Friday, December 16, 2022. “He has been a leader at the local, regional and state levels and he can put his vast network to use in order to help our customers.”
Lone Star National Bank, which is one of the 50 largest banks by asset size in Texas, has 33 locations in South Texas, including the Rio Grande Valley and San Antonio.
In 2016, Álvarez left his position as CEO of the Rio Grande Valley Partnership when Gov. Greg Abbott appointed him to the Texas Workforce Commission.
Álvarez had served as the regional chamber’s CEO for three years, from 2013-2016, and then served as a workforce commissioner for the last six years until stepping down effective Thursday, December 15, 2022.
“I may have worked in Austin, but my heart has always been in the Valley,” Álvarez said. “My heart is full knowing I am back home serving the people I love and the communities I grew up in and I am honored and proud to be putting my years of experience to work for a great company like Lone Star National Bank.
“Banks are only as prosperous as the communities they serve, and we take our community outreach and philanthropy efforts to heart because as a community, we can’t move forward unless we move together,” he added.
Álvarez reflected on his public service on behalf of Texas during the period which he was the TWC Commissioner Representing Labor.
“It has been a pleasure to serve as the Commissioner Representing Labor of the Texas Workforce Commission for two terms. I am truly humbled and honored to have been given the opportunity to serve this great state of Texas,” said Álvarez. “I truly have enjoyed the opportunity to develop impactful and innovative initiatives benefitting both our constituents and employers.”
Earlier in 2022, Álvarez was appointed an Apprenticeship Ambassador by the U.S. Department of Labor. The designation is a recognition from the Department of Labor for commitment to modernizing, diversifying, and expanding Registered Apprenticeship to support the success of American workers, employers, and communities across the country.
He also spearheaded apprenticeship initiatives to address healthcare worker shortages in Texas.
“I’d like to recognize Commissioner Julián Álvarez for his service to Texans,” said TWC Chairman Bryan Daniel. “His efforts have demonstrated his commitment to the Texas workforce.”
As President and CEO of the Rio Grande Valley Partnership, he succeeded in fostering relationships and coordinating programs to advance regional economic development and employment opportunities.
Álvarez also served as the Texas Regional Director for U.S. Senator Kay Bailey Hutchinson, R-Texas, advising on legislative and policy issues related to South Texas.
Prior to that, he served on the South Texas Drug Task Force as a State Trooper for the Texas Department of Public Safety.
After his service with the Texas Department of Public Safety, Álvarez, inspired stewardship and leadership as the Director of College Information for Texas State Technical College in Harlingen.
