Hernandez appointed as Business Development Executive for Tribal Enterprises & Agri-Business Corporations
Felicia Hernandez, SBTEC Business
Development Executive
By LIZZIE BOYD
Sho-Ban News
FORT HALL — Shoshone-Bannock Tribal member Felicia Hernandez was hired back in July as the Business Development Executive under the Tribal Enterprises Business Development Department.
The position works to strengthen the economic growth for both the Tribal Section 17 Corporations, Shoshone-Bannock Tribal Enterprises Corporation (SBTEC) and the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes Agri-Business Corporation (SBABC).
Hernandez graduated from Idaho State University with a bachelor’s in business administration in Management. She also holds certifications in Human Resources and Hospitality. She worked for the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes for the last 15 years in numerous management positions for the Enterprise Corporation and the Casino Hotel.
Hernandez said, “I have experience in management, operations, budgeting, and strategic planning. I also have experience with developing policy and procedures and complying with tribal, state and federal levels.”
As the Business Development Executive Hernandez’s primary responsibilities include research, screening, analysis and recommendation of implementation of new and existing business initiatives. It includes developing strategic, business and feasibility plans, and implementing these plans by working cooperatively with the Tribal government operations.
Currently the department is fully staffed with three full-time positions, including Hernandez, along with a Business Development Specialist and an Administrative Assistant. The department reports to the Board of Directors that oversees both Corporations, and the Chairman of the board is Hernandez’s direct supervisor.
Hernandez is very grateful for the opportunity to be in this position and to be able to be a part of a new development for the betterment of the Tribes. Hernandez said, “By supporting the Section 17 Corporations, we will assist in the implementation of business opportunities that will ensure a positive revenue stream, create employment for Tribal members, and strengthen the portfolios of both corporations.”
Hernandez also mentioned her overall goal and plan is to collaborate with our Corporations, Board of Directors and Shareholders to develop businesses needed for our Tribal community. She believes her ideas can benefit the Tribes by promoting self-sufficiency and economic independence. She feels that by supporting our corporations, Tribal members contribute to a sustainable and prosperous future for the community and generations to come.
Hernandez said the third annual open house for the Tribal Section 17 Corporations, SBTEC, SBABC and Business Development occurred on June 25. The next annual open house has yet to be scheduled for FY 2026.
