team at TxDMV was a dream job for Daniel because of the way TxDMV supports the motor vehicle industry. Daniel’s professional life has been a fulfilling one. His tenure with the state has allowed him to learn about many different aspects of higher education, health, agriculture and the motor vehicle industry. His leadership opportunities have taught him how to provide vision, strategic and critical thinking, authenticity, selfawareness, flexibility and open-mindedness within his role at TxDMV. He knows how to be accountable and dependable for department staff, the TxDMV board, the stakeholders and the customers being served. Since Daniel joined the TxDMV in 2014, he has had challenges, opportunities and accomplishments in each position. As the director of the Motor Vehicle Division, starting in 2014, Daniel streamlined operations and directed the implementation of a paperless licensure system. He also built relationships with stakeholders. In 2020, as the deputy executive director, the role was very different. Daniel oversaw the administrative functions of the agency. He worked hard in that capacity to improve customer service and focus on stakeholder relationships and other relationships within the agency’s purview. As the interim director starting in February 2022, Daniel worked with the staff and board to identify and implement security features and prevent temp tag fraud. He also started to rebuild and focus on stakeholder relationships. If you look at Daniel’s career, it seems as though he planned it, but that’s misleading. “I didn’t plan anything,” said Daniel. “A lot of the opportunities I’ve had were because of serendipity, and when they arrived, I tried to do my best every day in every leadership position. I didn’t expect to become the executive director in May 2022, but I welcome leading the amazing TxDMV department.” Daniel’s new position does not have a set term. The board will determine the length of Daniel’s tenure. However, he sees a lot of work that needs to be done to move the department forward. He will continue to work toward improving operations, building and maintaining relationships with stakeholders, and allocating state resources efficiently. Daniel sees two serious issues facing dealers in the next five years. The first one involves customer expectations about vehicle purchases. Customers have high standards about what they expect, and dealers should be responsive to that. However, he thinks dealers are up for the task. “I am glad to say that every experience I have had when buying a vehicle from a Texas franchised dealer has been nothing short of amazing,” he said. The second issue or challenge is inventory. “It pains me to see franchised dealer lots with very few cars,” said Daniel. “I understand the challenges the franchised dealers are going through to get vehicles, but I hope the problems won’t last five years. Again, it pains me to see so few cars on lots.” Daniel hopes TADA members will be engaged with TxDMV and feel comfortable voicing their thoughts, ideas and concerns, either with staff or through the association. “We are working hard to be aligned with stakeholders’ needs, but we need to hear from them to learn about their problems and potential solutions,” said Daniel. Daniel has learned important lessons during his career about working within government. “Having a positive outlook is a big help when it comes to being successful,” said Daniel. “My work in state government always comes with opportunities and challenges, but you can achieve anything if you are focused, have an open mind, and keep your feet grounded. Every time I speak with someone or take on a new project, the relationships I build are a chance for growth. Even more important than that, though, are the opportunities to have a positive impact on the people around me.” When asked what Daniel wants dealers to remember from this article, he said, “I think franchised dealers throughout the state are amazing. They are a tremendous presence in our state and are vital to the economy. I have thoroughly enjoyed building relationships with many of them throughout my tenure at TxDMV. Many of them have my personal phone number and reach out often. I hope that will continue. I enjoy visiting with them, and I will work hard to continue existing relationships and build more. Finally, I am here to help and support them in any way I can. I have enjoyed partnering with TADA for eight-and-a-half years; I have a great relationship with TADA’s leaders and the franchise dealerships, and I want to continue those relationships as executive director.” “I’ve made a positive difference in the lives of others, and the government has given me many opportunities to have a direct, positive impact throughout the state. Because of my work, I feel personal satisfaction and achievement.” 13 SUMMER 2022
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