McAllen Chamber Announces 2024 Woman of the Year

McAllen Chamber of Commerce honors Roel “Roy” Rodriguez, P.E. and Natasha A. Del Barrio as Man & Woman of the Year.

2024 Woman of the Year – Natasha A. Del Barrio

The McAllen Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that Natasha A. del Barrio, visionary leader and Chief Executive Officer of Bert Ogden and Fiesta Auto Group, has been named Woman of the Year for her remarkable contributions to the Rio Grande Valley and her transformative leadership. A native of the region, Natasha’s inspiring journey from a high school marketing assistant to CEO is a testament to her unwavering dedication, innovative vision and entrepreneurial drive.

With a Bachelor’s in Business Administration in Marketing and an MBA from the University of Texas-Pan American, Natasha began her career at Bert Ogden Auto Group in 1999. She expanded her experience in the financial sector, taking on influential roles at Citi Group and JP Morgan Chase, where she managed business portfolios for over 140 automotive dealers across Texas, generating more than $14 million in monthly revenue. Returning to Bert Ogden in 2012, Natasha quickly rose through the ranks, becoming CEO in 2017. Today, she oversees 24 dealerships and is recognized for her strategic leadership and commitment to operational excellence.

Natasha’s exceptional contributions to the automotive retail industry have garnered national attention, earning her recognition in Automotive News and F&I Showroom, as well as the 40 Under 40 Award in 2019 for her industry-shaping impact.

“We are very proud to honor Natasha [A.] del Barrio, one of our business leaders and a great contributor to our chamber community efforts, as the McAllen Chamber Woman of the Year,” Darling said. “Natasha’s efforts produce results and make our chamber and our city better. When there is something to be done, Natasha is always ready and willing to be there to make it a success.”

In addition to her professional achievements, Natasha is a devoted advocate for philanthropy. She has served on the boards of Easter Seals, the UTRGV Alumni Advisory Council and the Texas Automobile Dealers Association. In 2022, Natasha was named South Texas Woman of the Year by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society, raising over $840,000 during a 10-week fundraising campaign.

Despite her demanding role as CEO, Natasha’s most cherished role is being a mother to her three children: Ethan, Connor and Cora. Grounded in her Christian faith, she balances her responsibilities as a business leader, community advocate and parent, continuing to positively impact the lives of those around her.

“We are proud to honor Natasha del Barrio and Roy Rodriguez, whose long-term contributions have had great impact on the McAllen Chamber of Commerce, the greater McAllen community, and our region. Thank you to our Man & Woman of the Year for their exemplary service and inspiring dedication,” said Hershal Patel, Chair-elect of the McAllen Chamber of Commerce.

The McAllen Chamber of Commerce is honored to celebrate Roel “Roy” Rodriguez, P.E. and Natasha A. Del Barrio for their leadership, and contributions to the community at the 69th Annual Man & Woman of the Year Awards, which will take place from 6:30-10:00 p.m. on November 7, 2024, at the McAllen Convention Center.

For reserved tables, sponsorships, or additional inquiries, please contact Vice President of Membership Services Blanca Cardenas at (956) 682-2871 or bcardenas@mcallenchamber.com.

Since 1955, the McAllen Chamber of Commerce has honored two exceptional individuals each year, recognizing their outstanding contributions and commitment to the City of McAllen.