As a longtime leader at top financial institutions such as Wells Fargo and HSBC, John
Lucas understands how much impact entrepreneurial programs can have on local
communities.
It’s why he first connected with the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
Lucas, actively seeking ways to engage with and support local communities, was
impressed when he saw, first-hand, the impact of the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of
Commerce’s Latina Entrepreneurship Training Series, now known as the Level-Up
Entrepreneurship Training Series, had on the community.
It was an experience that left a lasting impression and led him to join the chamber’s
executive board more than five years ago. And as it turns out, the Chamber was
equally impressed with him.
Last week, the SHCCNJ announced that Lucas had been unanimously selected as
interim president, effective immediately, stepping into a role that had long been held by
Carlos Medina.
Citing his background in enterprise strategy, organizational transformation and
stakeholder alignment, the Statewide Hispanic Chamber of Commerce said Lucas was
the perfect fit for the role.
“John Lucas understands this organization, our partners and the responsibility we
carry,” Chairman Luis O. De La Hoz said. “He has the experience to lead with clarity and
the judgment to move us forward.”
With a career centered on creating strategies, building high-performing teams and
leading large-scale transformations, Lucas recognized strong alignment with the
Chamber’s mission.
His connection is also personal, shaped by his father’s earlier work in Hispanic
communities in Chicago and his family’s heritage, with ties to Puerto Rico and Spain.
“Carlos Medina built an organization that delivers real results, and I look forward to
building upon that strong foundation with focus and momentum,” he said.
“Strengthening Latino and other small businesses across New Jersey remains our
priority.
“The work continues, and it will accelerate.”
During his tenure, Medina reshaped SHCCNJ into one of the nation’s leading chambers.
He guided the organization through financial hardship and built it into a multimillion-
dollar institution with more than 7,000 members, expanding its reach, strengthening its
voice and advancing opportunities for Latino-owned businesses throughout New Jersey.
De La Hoz praised Medina.
“Carlos Medina leaves a strong foundation, and we are building on it with purpose,” he
said.
