The former leader of a global bakery brand was selected Tuesday as the next president and CEO of the Fort Worth Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
Ericka Garza replaces Anette Landeros, who left the chamber in December to take a job as chief strategic officer with the Trinity Metro transit agency.
Garza, who starts her new job March 11, is a seasoned business leader with a wealth of experience in franchising, operations, business development and sustainable revenue growth, the chamber said in a news release. From May 2021 to April 2023, she served as president of Au Bon Pain, which has bakery locations in 13 states, including Texas, and the District of Columbia.
“I look forward to working alongside our members and partners to drive economic growth, create lasting opportunities and elevate our chamber’s impact,” Garza said in a statement. “This role allows me to align my strengths with my purpose, championing entrepreneurs, fostering economic development, and ensuring that our chamber remains a powerful force for progress. Together, we will empower the next generation of business leaders and build a strong, more prosperous future.”
Garza, a business executive graduate of Cornell University, recently completed an executive finance program at Harvard University to solidify her business finance and strategic growth experience.
“Throughout her career, Garza has forged opportunities through hard work and determination, benefited from mentorship and now dedicates herself to creating pathways for others,” the chamber said. “She deeply understands the challenges and obstacles entrepreneurs face, particularly within the Hispanic business community, and she is driven by a commitment to giving back and fostering success.”
Mario Valdez, chairman of the board for the Hispanic chamber, said the selection committee was truly inspired by Garza. She will now lead a membership of more than 840 businesses and entrepreneurs.
“Her resume spoke volumes, but it was the undeniable energy, passion and authenticity she brought to the table that truly took our breath away,” Valdez said. “She’s an incredible presence, both in her accomplishments and the way she connects with others.”
Garza previously served as chair of the International Franchise Association’s Hispanic Council, where she advocated for increasing Hispanic entrepreneurs in franchising.
“Garza’s dedication to diversity, equity and inclusion has earned her numerous accolades, including being named one of the 100 Most Influential Latinas in the U.S. by Latino Leaders Magazine in 2023 and 2024,” the chamber said.
Eric E. Garcia is a senior business reporter at the Fort Worth Report. Contact him at eric.garcia@fortworthreport.org.
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