As Commercial Bank of Texas’ new Vice President of Commercial Lending & Business Development for Jefferson County, Austin Williams is looking forward to spreading the word about Banking Texas Style across Southeast Texas.

“To me, ‘Banking Texas Style’ means showing up for your community the same way you’d show up for your family — with loyalty, hustle, and heart,” he said. “It’s about doing business face-to-face, building relationships that last decades, and understanding that every handshake still matters. It’s personal. It’s proud. And it’s built on trust, service, and doing the right thing, even when no one’s looking.”

Austin graduated from the Southwestern Graduate School of Banking and earned a BBA in finance and economics from Lamar University and a BBA in economics from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette. He has more than 22 years of experience across banking, retail, business development, and the golf industry.

“My path to CBTx began through a customer referral,” he said. “A long-time client and friend introduced me to Jimmy Mize, who later became my supervisor. After connecting with the team and learning about the bank’s strong culture, vision, and commitment to community, I knew it was the right fit. I’m excited to help lead CBTx’s expansion into Southeast Texas and bring our relationship-focused approach to the businesses and families in this region.”

Austin and his wife, Nicole, have two children and live in Beaumont. They attend St. Anthony Cathedral Basilica. He serves as vice president and treasurer of the Babe Zaharias Foundation, supporting youth golf and preserving the legacy of one of Southeast Texas’s greatest athletes. He also serves on the advisory committee for Monsignor Kelly Catholic High School and is the assistant golf coach, and he is an active member of the BBB, the Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce, the Sour Lake Chamber of Commerce, and the Better Business Bureau of Southeast Texas. He has also been involved with the Southeast Texas Young Professionals Organization (SETX YPO) and has partnered with regional economic development groups and business associations throughout Jefferson, Orange, Liberty, and Hardin counties.

FUN FACTS

Who is the most famous person you have met? I’ve had the chance to meet some incredible people over the years, but the most famous would probably be Kobe Bryant, Tiger Woods, Michael Jordan, and Jack Nicklaus. Each one left an impression in a different way — whether it was their presence, their discipline, or the way they carried themselves. It was a reminder that greatness isn’t just about talent — it’s about mindset and work ethic.

What kind of music inspires you and why? I like all kinds of music — it really depends on the moment. I’ll play something upbeat before a round of golf or a big meeting to get locked in and energized. Music has a way of setting the tone and getting your mindset right, whether it’s classic rock, country, or even a little hip-hop. It’s less about the genre and more about the mood it creates.

Who would you consider to be your hero? My heroes are my parents. They taught me the value of hard work, doing the right thing, and putting others first. I watched them build a business from the ground up, treat people with respect, and lead by example every day. The foundation they gave me has shaped everything I do, both personally and professionally.

What is your favorite childhood memory? Some of my favorite childhood memories are working alongside my parents in the family business and traveling with my dad for work — just riding in the car with him, talking about life and business. Those moments made a lasting impact. I also have great memories of playing junior golf all over the world, meeting new people, and experiencing different places. It all shaped who I am today.

What was the best concert you ever attended? Tough one. Alan Jackson, Pitbull, Luke Bryan, David Grey, Hall and Oates.