Natalie Garza, Houston Market CEO, Bank of Texas

In an interview with Invest:, Natalie Garza, Houston market CEO of Bank of Texas, discussed the bank’s growth, client relationships, Houston’s economy, commercial real estate, and technology. “AI is not going to replace what we do,” Garza said.

How are market changes affecting what clients need from Bank of Texas?

Clients are seeking strategic advice more than ever, as they operate amid changing interest rates, economic uncertainty, industry disruption, and rapid advances in technology. Those changes increase the value of being a trusted advisor and building trusted relationships in business.

Clients want a banking partner that understands not only their business, but also helps them navigate change and brings resources to the table. They want support as they pursue their goals, move their businesses forward, grow, and evolve. That plays directly to our strengths as a local, relationship-focused bank backed by the capabilities of BOK Financial. 

What opportunities do you see as you shape the bank’s next chapter in Houston?

We are building on a strong foundation established over more than a century as BOK Financial and more than 25 years in the Houston market. That foundation is based on trusted relationships, a talented team, strong credit discipline, and a long-term commitment to our clients and community. My responsibility is to help us capitalize on that and continue growing in this dynamic market.

Growth starts with attracting and developing exceptional talent. Bank of Texas has a strong, people-centered culture, so protecting and strengthening that culture is a priority, not only to attract new talent, but also to retain the team we have.

We also must consistently deliver an outstanding client experience across every line of business, which is supported by our bankers’ expertise and knowledge of the market. Our focus on clients, talent, and culture creates an environment where people can build great careers while helping our clients and community thrive.

Which parts of Houston’s economy are creating opportunities?

Houston has always created opportunities for people and businesses to innovate and grow. We are seeing strong momentum across energy, healthcare, life sciences, manufacturing, technology, data center development, and aerospace. What’s exciting is that Houston’s growth is being fueled by both its traditional strengths and continued industry diversification. The Port of Houston, the Texas Medical Center, and our leadership in energy are among the many competitive advantages that support the region’s long-term growth potential. The current opportunities may look new from the outside, but Houstonians recognize that they reflect who we are and what makes the city special: entrepreneurial and resilient.

How do you support entrepreneurs and business owners beyond providing capital?

Access to capital is important, but it is only one part of the equation. New business owners and entrepreneurs benefit from partnering with a trusted advisor who can help them navigate important decisions, manage cash flow, plan for growth, build a strong financial foundation, make connections in the market, and access resources.

Our goal is to understand a client’s vision early, communicate clearly, and understand the challenges and opportunities that the client faces. Because we work across different industries and companies, we can bring a broader view of the landscape to help inform decisions. We want to partner with business owners throughout the life cycle of their business, whether they are starting a company or leading an established business.

What is your outlook for Houston’s commercial real estate market?

We believe deeply in Houston’s real estate market. After almost 20 years in the industry, I see it as one of the most attractive and resilient real estate markets in the country, even though individual property types will continue to move through normal cycles. The city’s population growth, job creation, industry diversification, and business-friendly environment create a strong foundation for long-term demand. Houston weathers cycles better than many other major markets in the country, and I’m bullish on Houston CRE over the long term. 

How does the bank’s expertise help clients make decisions with confidence?

We have experts in various industries and sectors across our Houston team. These are seasoned bankers in real estate, energy, core commercial and corporate banking, and private wealth.

Our bankers have insights into a broader landscape than one individual client, so they can advise on macroeconomic trends and market dynamics, while bringing unique solutions to our clients. Our private wealth team brings that same kind of knowledge to individuals and families as well.

We have strong internal resources, and we want clients to experience the full capabilities of our team at Bank of Texas. The goal is to help them become better informed and feel equipped to make good decisions. It comes down to our people, their knowledge and expertise, and the trust we have built with our clients and partners.

How are technology and AI changing the client experience?

Technology in banking is always changing, so we must continually adapt and invest. We want our customers to have access to best-in-class technology that supports, but does not replace, personal service.

Customers want access to a physical branch and the ability to speak with a person because banking is personal. They also want the convenience of conducting much of their banking online. We need to preserve that personal touch while continuing to invest in technology to create a strong client experience.

We are using technology and AI to enhance our go-to-market strategy and use our time more efficiently. AI is not going to replace what we do, but it can enhance both the client and employee experience. The key is to integrate it as an enhancement, not a replacement.

For clients, AI can make banking faster, more efficient, more personalized, and more relevant. It can improve the insights we bring, streamline processes, and help us respond to needs more quickly. It complements the expertise we already provide.

What makes you confident in Houston’s long-term prospects?

Houston is dynamic and vibrant. It offers a strong quality of life and is a great place to live and raise a family. 

The city creates opportunities for people and businesses willing to work hard, innovate, and grow, partly because people are willing to connect and help one another. I moved here in 2008 from out of state and experienced that firsthand. That environment, together with the broader Texas economy, will continue to attract businesses, corporations, individuals, and families to the city.

Bank of Texas intends to remain part of that growth. We want to help make Houston stronger through our clients, our employees, and our community investment. When our clients grow, they have a positive impact on Houston. When our employees thrive, they can give back to the community. As the bank grows, we also have more opportunities to invest in community partnerships and help make Houston an even better place to live and work.