Texas native Danny Buck did not have the typical pedigree of a banker when he entered into the industry 39 years ago but quickly learned that his love for teaching wasn’t lost on the banking world.

Today, Buck works as the president and CEO of Lone Star Capital Bank in San Antonio. He is responsible for all aspects of governance, banking operations and lending activities and often serves as a leader, teacher and coach to many of his colleagues.

When teaching comes full circle

Born in Gainesville, Buck is a graduate of Austin College where he earned his bachelor’s degree with a concentration in business administration and master’s degree in secondary education. 

Following graduation, he was ready to embark on the job search process and soon after, connected with a friend from college who recommended that he apply to First City Bank in Houston. With an open mind, Buck applied and received an offer for the role of internal auditor — and the rest is history. 

His experience at First City Bank proved to play a crucial role in his understanding of and exposure to all areas of the banking industry. There, Buck served in various roles including controller, consumer lending officer and commercial lending officer and quickly grew a passion for banking.

“I love the banking industry because it offers so many opportunities for meaningful careers in sales, finance, accounting, technology, law and HR,” said Buck. “[The banking industry] appeals to my sense of duty and responsibility by helping communities thrive by financing the establishment and growth of businesses and allowing individuals to pursue their chosen lifestyles.”

He accepted the role of commercial lending officer and branch manager at West University Bank, N.A. in Houston in 1985 and later, worked at various community banks in San Antonio such as NationsBank, Sterling Bank and The Trust Company. He served in many prominent positions such as banking center president, private banking manager, president and CEO.

In 2011, Buck joined Lone Star Capital Bank in San Antonio and currently serves as the president and CEO. He is also a member of the bank’s board of directors, where he serves on all major committees appointed by the board. In addition, he chairs the bank’s executive and personnel committees.

“I love leading, teaching and coaching other bankers,” said Buck. “Although I have never formally taught a high school class, I’ve been a teacher and coach my whole career.”

About Lone Star Capital Bank

Founded in 2003, Lone Star Capital Bank in San Antonio was formed when Clear Lake National Bank and Mission Bank merged into one. The community bank has seven locations in San Antonio and other Texas Hill Country communities and specializes in serving entrepreneurs, small and medium-sized businesses, executives, professionals and real estate investors.

In 2012, the community bank completed its acquisition of Cattleman’s National Bank and as a result, gained a presence in Texas Hill Country markets including Marble Falls, Dripping Springs, Johnson City and Blanco. Most recently, Lone Star Capital Bank announced an agreement to acquire Business Bank of Texas, N.A. in Austin, which is expected to be completed early in the second quarter.

When it comes to company culture, Lone Star Capital Bank believes in work excellence, life balance, fun and support for each other — creating a relationship where attitude and aptitude combine for the ultimate customer service experience.

“We strive to create a fair deal for both the bank and customer and never take advantage of situations where the bank might have the upper hand,” said Buck. “We also believe in a diverse workforce where everyone has an opportunity to excel. We invest in training and most of our open upper and mid-level positions are filled with existing employees.”

In 2020, Lone Star Capital Bank was named Top Workplace by the San Antonio Express-News.

A partner in the community

A true community partner, Buck currently serves on the Board of Directors and Government Relations Council for the Texas Bankers Association. He is also the co-founder of LeaderSteps Inc., an organization for high school seniors that focuses on the various attributes of leadership.

“Through my involvement [with TBA], I have gained a better understanding of the issues that are important to all community banks regardless of size and complexity,” said Buck. “I also get a constant view of the future of banking and how our bankers and advocates can truly help chart the course by keeping our elected officials informed.”

Throughout his career, he has served on numerous boards including the Boerne Independent School District Board of Trustees, San Antonio Sports, Communities in Schools, American Heart Association and several others.

Outside of the bank

Buck is married to his college sweetheart Dr. Katie Buck, a retired pediatrician with a passion for the underserved. The couple will celebrate their 41st wedding anniversary in May. Together they have four children, Clint, Josh, Will and Alison.

In his spare time, Buck enjoys hunting, fishing, writing short stories and articles, as well as spending time with friends and family.