Pérez Named New TAMIU-SBDC Director
Local businessperson and long-time Laredoan Richard Pérez has been named the director of the Texas A&M International University Small Business Development Center.
Dr. Jackie So, dean of the TAMIU College of Business Administration which hosts the TAMIU-SBDC, announced Pérez’ selection.
“Richard is well-versed in local business and their needs and is an integral part of our College’s service commitment. We look forward to working with him to continue to implement our services and leadership here in Laredo and our surrounding service area,” Dr. So said.
Pérez said he relishes the challenge and is proud of the good work that the TAMIU-SBDC provides its service area.
“This is a remarkable opportunity for me and one that I truly relish. I completely endorse the Small Business Development model here and have personally witnessed how it can change the lives and fortunes of small business owners. These owners are the backbone of our local, state and national economy and I’m honored to be able to lead a team of dedicated researchers, analysts and providers who will continue to deliver our successful TAMIU-SBDC services here,” Pérez said.
The SBDC is designed to promote growth, expansion, innovation, increased productivity and improved management for small businesses in the greater Laredo service area of Webb, Jim Hogg and Zapata counties.
Its mission is accomplished through counseling, technical assistance, training seminars and workshops, advocacy, research and resource information sharing, in coordination with the US Small Business Administration and other community business support services.
It is part of the South-West Texas Border SBDC Network with the University of Texas at San Antonio.
Pérez has been associated with TAMIU since 2004, first serving as program manager for the Texas Center for Border Economic and Enterprise Development and, most recently, as business/economic development coordinator for the SBDC.
His BBA in general business is from Texas A&M University-Kingsville and he is a Certified Global Business Professional and also holds a Texas Real Estate License.
Prior to joining the University, he was an adjunct faculty member at Laredo Community College and store manager for the Laredo Sears Roebuck and Company.
He is a retired Commander for the US Coast Guard Reserve and maintains a number of community affiliations, including serving as Chairman of the Board of the Laredo Chamber of Commerce, 1994-1995, and remains active as present Chair of the Re-Accreditation Committee.
For additional information, contact the TAMIU-SBDC at 326.2550, visit offices in the Western Hemispheric Trade Center, visit sbdc.tamiu.edu or e-mail sbdc@tamiu.edu
TAMIU-SBDC office hours are Monday-Friday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Relations, Marketing and Information Services at prmis@tamiu.edu