John Barajas, At Large

Retired Executive, British Petroleum

I was born in Fort Worth, Texas and attended the University of Texas in Austin where I obtained my Bachelors of Business Administration (BBA) in 1985. I have post-graduate executive education from Stanford University, The University of Pennsylvania, and King’s College in Cambridge, England.

I have been married for 35 years and have 3 adult children. My wife, Barbara Barajas, works at Blue Willow Bookshop which often holds author events at the OCWH in conjunction with Family Point. My children live in Spokane, Washington; New York City; and Houston.

I have an on-line business that sells vintage barware and accessories. In my free time I love to play golf, pickleball and watching college football. I am a foodie and a decent cook, and therefore I love to try new restaurants.

I had a 30-year career in the oil & gas industry. I started with Amoco Production Company and then joined BP when the 2 companies merged. I worked in negotiations, economics, acquisitions & divestments, and finance. I worked across the entire value chain, from exploration thru refining and chemicals. I also worked in the solar and renewables business for BP. My last role was a Chief Financial Officer for the Texas City Strategic Performance Unit. I retired in 2014.

WHY JOHN SERVES:

I joined the Board of the OCWH in April of 2016. I was the committee chair for the Leadercast Event for 3 years (2017, 2018 and 2019). I worked on the Golf Committee and Leadercast committee since 2015.

I serve on the Board because I believe it is very important to serve the community in a way that connects with you. My father was a long time member and officer in the Lion’s Club. I learned at an early age that we should do all we can to serve others.