By Varik Choudhary y Hannah Holod
Ryan Melendez is a banking professional with over 15 years of experience in the financial services industry. He currently serves as the Vice President and Branch Leader at Truist Bank, where he focuses on helping individuals and small businesses grow through trusted financial guidance. Ryan didn’t initially plan to go into banking,but the field became something he felt passionate about.
“After my time at Dell, I was just looking for a job,” Ryan says. He ended up at IBC Bank, and from there, found a genuine interest in the world of banking. What began as a job turned into a career where he focused on building relationships and helping others succeed. Over time, Ryan’s role evolved from handling transactions to becoming more of a financial advisor. “It’s not just about banking anymore. It’s about how we can serve you,” he says.
Ryan has been involved with Economic Growth Business Incubator (EGBI) since 2014. He was first invited to get involved by a former director, and since then, has become a strong supporter of the organization’s mission. One of his most meaningful experiences was working with Alejandro Medina, owner of Complus Systems, a small business owner whom he helped through advice and support. “He started small, and I got to watch him grow and thrive,” Ryan says. He values the opportunity to give back to the community, especially to Latino entrepreneurs looking for guidance and encouragement.
“EGBI gave me the chance to meet people, help them start businesses, and build real community connections,” Ryan says. “That kind of interaction means more to me now than anything I did in IT years ago.”
Outside of banking, Ryan serves in the Texas State Guard, where he continues to demonstrate leadership and discipline. Balancing a banking career with military service isn’t easy. “Some weekends I’m waking up at 4 a.m. to drill,” he says. “But it gives me a sense of pride. I get to serve my community both in and out of uniform.”
In addition to his work at the bank and his military service, Ryan has mentored clients, trained young professionals, as well as hosted a radio show called Más Allá del Dinero, which focused on financial literacy in the Latino community. “A lot of us struggle with confidence when it comes to money,” he says. “I want to change that and help our community invest more, save more, and buy homes.”
When asked what keeps him motivated, Ryan’s answer is simple: “Seeing results. Leaving an impact.” After years in the industry, he continues to focus on making a difference in people’s financial lives and in their communities.
If you would like support in starting or running a business from EGBI, click the link below. https://egbi.org/