Victor Lopez, a proud Chula Vista native and son of immigrant parents from Mexico City and Tijuana, has always been deeply rooted in his community. Fluent in Spanish from a young age, he frequently journeyed across the border, enriching his cultural experiences. A graduate of San Diego State University, Victor majored in Political Science and minored in International Security and Conflict Resolution.
Today, Victor stands as the Executive Director of The Lincoln Club Business League, championing an economic environment conducive for small businesses. Under his leadership, the Club witnessed an unprecedented influx of new members, particularly from the younger demographic, and achieved significant milestones in a volatile political landscape.
Concurrently, he leads as the Chief Operating Officer of Imperio Strategies LLC, a company renowned for its expertise in Latino voter outreach and communications in southern California.
With a deep commitment to community and governance, Victor also holds the esteemed position of Charter Review Commissioner in Chula Vista. His extensive experience and unwavering dedication to both roles showcase his commitment to fostering positive change and ensuring transparent governance. Victor’s leadership style is characterized by his collaborative approach, strategic vision, and genuine desire to serve his community. As a prominent figure in Chula Vista, he continues to champion initiatives that drive progress and uphold the values of the community he represents.
Victor’s political acumen is further evidenced by his tenure as a Campaign Manager for a San Diego City Council campaign, where he orchestrated outreach to over 120,000 constituents and raised an impressive $300,000. His experience also extends to policy framing and fostering robust government-community relations through roles with San Diego City Councilmember Chris Cate and Mayor Kevin Faulconer. While baseball once captured his heart, a passion for public service and community betterment took precedence during his university years. His internship with San Diego Mayor Kevin Faulconer ignited his love for politics, setting him on a path to effect positive change for San Diego County.
Honored with the “Bright Political Future” award, Victor’s influence is undeniable. He’s the youngest board member of the SDSU Alumni Board and Lincoln Media Foundation and is actively involved in several community organizations, including the Lions Club, San Diego Downtown Partnership, Latin American Political Association, Black Chamber of Commerce, University Club, and Toastmasters International. Victor’s journey, from a young boy living back and forth between Tijuana and Chula Vista to a recognized political figure, is a testament to his dedication, resilience, and vision for a brighter future.
About Victor Alfredo Lopez
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I’m the son of two immigrant parents from Mexico City and Tijuana. I grew up with Spanish as my first language while spending time back and forth with our family across the border in Tijuana, Mexico. My mom owns an insurance brokerage, and my dad is an architect. I have one older sister who got me into politics and one younger sister.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
The ability to make decisions that help my local community on a large scale. Lifting others and fighting to do what’s right despite unfair advantages.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Don’t fall for the hype. Fancy job titles and positions of power don’t make you better than anyone else. Stay true to yourself, and don’t apologize for doing what’s right.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Still involved in politics and serving my community through private business
Victor Alfredo Lopez & Our Community
Q: What are a few of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Callie, Barbusa, Lionfish, Javiers, Baja Oyster Bar, TJ Oyster Bar; University Club
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
My entire life. Twenty-five years living/working here.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
Dan Hom, he’s my current Chairman at the Lincoln Club Business League
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
Petco Park. University Club
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
Our embracement of the Latino Community and ability to cross borders easily. Being able to speak Spanish with a majority of people I meet.
Q: If you could choose anyone alive today and not a relative, with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would you meet for this lunch?
Drake. He’s my favorite rapper and has inspired me through his lyrics to thrive in business while also talking about real-life issues that address social pressures/expectations. I’d take him to Barbusa.
For Fun
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Interstellar is my favorite movie of all time. Succession is my favorite show of all time
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I can find someone I know anywhere in the world
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
Golf at La Jolla Country Club
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
My older sister Alexis
Q: What community organizations and/or local nonprofits do you admire/support?
ResQue Ranch
Q: What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
If you don’t like how the table is set, turn the table over.
Q: What Neighborhood do you live in?
Chula Vista
What I love about my Neighborhood:
Everyone knows each other. A small town feel.
Please describe your ideal San Diego weekend:
Dinner at Barbusa with friends. Golf at La Jolla Country Club. Surf Pacific Beach Pier at Sunset.
Q: Finally, what three words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Chula Vista
