Texas Border Business
BROWNSVILLE, Texas – The City of Brownsville’s Interim City Manager Alan Guard, ICMA-CM, CGFO, has received the Credentialed Manager designation from ICMA, the International City/County Management Association, one of the most respected professional organizations in local government management worldwide.
Mr. Guard joins an elite group of more than 1,300 local government professionals who have earned this distinction through ICMA’s Voluntary Credentialing Program, which recognizes individuals dedicated to integrity, lifelong learning, and excellence in public service.
“Alan’s achievement reflects the highest standards of professionalism and leadership in local government,” said Mayor John Cowen, Jr. “His commitment to ethical governance, continuous improvement, and service to our community strengthens the City’s mission to deliver exceptional public services and improve quality of life for our residents.”
“I’m truly honored to receive this designation and to continue serving the Brownsville community,” said Interim City Manager Alan Guard, ICMA-CM, CGFO. “It’s a meaningful milestone in my professional journey, and it reinforces my commitment to keep growing, learning, and working alongside our City Commission and staff to deliver the best possible services for our residents.”
ICMA’s mission is to advance professional local government through leadership, management, innovation, and ethics. The organization supports over 13,000 members across 27 countries, including chief administrative officers, assistant administrators, educators, and other public service professionals.
To earn the ICMA Credentialed Manager designation, candidates must demonstrate significant experience as senior management executives in local government, hold a degree in public administration or a related field, and commit to ongoing professional development while upholding the highest ethical standards.
Mr. Guard has more than three decades of experience in public administration, strategic operations, and municipal leadership. Since joining the Brownsville executive team, he has played a critical role in advancing key city initiatives that support economic development, infrastructure modernization, and operational efficiency. Known for his collaborative approach, Mr. Guard provides guidance and oversight across multiple City departments, aligning municipal services with the City Commission strategic goals and community-driven priorities. His leadership complements Brownsville’s continued transformation into a regional hub for innovation, sustainability, and binational cooperation.
His public service career spans roles in city management, finance, and public safety. He is widely recognized for his ability to implement performance-based management practices and data-informed policy solutions, supporting Brownsville’s mission of delivering transparent, responsive, and inclusive government.
The City of Brownsville recognizes this milestone as a reflection of its broader commitment to professional excellence and innovation in public administration.
