Lone Star: John Osborne President and CEO Lubbock Economic Development Alliance

John Osborne

August 22, 2025

My public career highlights and education:

I’ve led economic development in three states, serving as chairman for multiple statewide organizations. A West Texas A&M MBA graduate and University of Oklahoma Economic Development Institute alumnus, I’ve guided 300+ company expansions, creating $3.5 billion in investment and 25,000+ jobs, earning numerous state and national awards, including the Tall in Texas Award.

The best part of public service:

I enjoy helping communities achieve opportunities they may never have imagined. Most rewarding is knowing a job created through our efforts has transformed an individual’s and a family’s future, strengthening our community’s prosperity and quality of life.

Some of the best advice you have ever received:

My dad’s advice: “Think, use your head.” And in economic development, we don’t create jobs; we help companies that create jobs. Our role is to connect, partner, and collaborate. Success is always the result of a team effort, not just one person.

Something I wish more people knew about my division of government:

We use public dollars to create greater returns for the community. The companies we attract and grow diversify Lubbock’s economy, keeping it strong and stable ensuring long-term prosperity.

A current project or initiative that I am working on:

Details remain confidential, but we’re pursuing several billion-dollar investments, game-changing opportunities introducing new industries to Lubbock and offering graduates a reason to stay, while continuing to support small, high-impact local projects.

One thing outside of government service people may not know about me:

I have two Eagle Scouts and another son close to earning the rank. I enjoy camping and cooking, especially time spent outdoors with my family.

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