Star of the Month - November 2023 - James Gaskins

This month’s Star serves a very important role that often goes unnoticed to those outside of the bank.  Possessing a unique skill set that includes an understanding of banking, business and finance, a commercial credit underwriter is a valuable asset for lenders and loan officers.  This month we are honored to introduce you to James Gaskins, Senior Vice President and Commercial Credit Underwriter, who has been selected as our November Star of the Month.

Working from our Montgomery location, James joined the Austin Bank team in 2022 bringing with him 15 years of banking experience in credit administration, portfolio management and commercial lending.  Now in his current role he underwrites loan requests and completes loan presentations, in addition to collecting and analyzing financial information provided by existing customers to ensure ongoing covenant compliance.  James’ background in finance and strong business acumen helps him understand the business itself and the client’s financial position.  He is able to build financial models to demonstrate the business’s ability to cash flow and determine loan repayment capacity.  Natascha Greer, Loan Assistant in Montgomery, shares, “James is a valued member of our team that produces high quality reports, whether the work involved is for a large profile package being prepared for loan committee or a small deal to help at the local level.  He is very knowledgeable, dedicated, committed and reliable.”

Other characteristics that were mentioned in James’ nominations repeatedly included:  a positive attitude, willingness to help others, conscientious, passing on of knowledge and dedication to his community.  He currently serves on the Conroe Convention and Visitors Bureau, Conroe/Lake Conroe Chamber of Commerce, Montgomery County Fair Association, and is a member of the Risk Management Association Gulf Coast Chapter. 

James and his wife, Megan, live in Conroe with their children, Maggie and Logan.   They stay busy with their children’s activities and James enjoys all kinds of sports, especially cheering on the Texas A&M Aggies.  He earned a BBA in Finance from Texas A&M and an executive MBA in Banking and Finance from Sam Houston State University.  James has also obtained his Credit Risk Certification from the Risk Management Association.

“James goes above and beyond the call of duty every single day and is the ultimate team player.  No task is too big or too small and he’s always willing to lend a helping hand.  He consistently makes significant contributions to the growth and success of the Southeast Region, applying his exceptional credit and risk knowledge with tremendous attention to detail and accuracy.”

Lowell Little, Executive Vice President/Regional President, Cleveland

“James is a tremendous asset to the lending team and Austin Bank in general.  He is one of the hardest working people I know and I could not do my job without him!  James exemplifies a great attitude and upholds all Austin Bank values.”

Daniel Wolfson, Senior Vice President/Market President, The Woodlands

“James always comes to work with a positive attitude.  He is the first to jump in and help out with any department needs.  He offers advice and guidance to all employees.”

Leigh Gilland, Assistant Vice President/Retail Office Manager, Montgomery