• Top Latino Lawyers 2024: Congratulations! Page 8 • Benny Agosto Jr: legacy for a better legal system Page 20 • Keep on the Watch 2024: Young Latino Layers who are making a difference Page 33 • Latino in Education: Preparing a better future Page 42 •
Latinos in Corporate: Latinos in the highest positions - page 9
Silvana Montenegro: Do not miss her amazing story - page 42
Chief Executive Officers and Presidents: The names who are leading industries - page 44
Supplier Diversity: Promoting equity in business - page 52
Latinos in Health: Latinos innovating in the medical field - page 63
Dr. Mauricio Gonzalez: Inspiring Healthier Lives Through Social Media - page 64
Boards Update 2024: New names serving on corporate boards - page 70
Benny Agosto
THE POWER OF CULTURAL IDENTITY IN LEADERSHIP
IN TODAY'S INTERCONNECTED world, cultural diversity is no longer a novelty but a fundamental aspect of our workplaces and communities. Leaders who recognize and leverage the power of cultural identity gain a significant advantage in navigating complex challenges and fostering inclusive environments. Embracing cultural identity as a leadership strength involves understanding, valuing, and integrating diverse perspectives, experiences, and backgrounds to drive positive outcomes.
Cultural identity encompasses a wide range of factors, including ethnicity, nationality, religion, gender, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, and more. Each of these dimensions shapes an individual's worldview, values, communication style, and problem-solving approach. Leaders who embrace cultural identity demonstrate:
• Enhanced Empathy: By understanding diverse cultural perspectives, leaders can better empathize with their team members, fostering trust and psychological safety.
• Improved Communication: Culturally intelligent leaders can adapt their communication styles to effectively connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds, minimizing misunderstandings and maximizing collaboration.
• Increased Innovation: Diverse teams bring a wider range of ideas and perspectives, leading to more creative and innovative solutions. Leaders who value cultural identity can effectively harness this potential.
• Stronger Relationships: Inclusive leaders who celebrate cultural diversity build stronger relationships with their teams, stakeholders, and customers, leading to increased loyalty and engagement.
• Greater Adaptability: Leaders with cultural intelligence are better equipped to navigate ambiguity and adapt to new situations.
The journey to becoming a culturally intelligent leader, one who effectively utilizes their cultural identity, is often facilitated by leadership coaching. With personalized guidance and support, coaches can help leaders:
Joe Bacigalupo, MBA, MPEC, ACPEC is a Managing Partner and an Executive Advisor at AlliancesHub International, LLC. AlliancesHub offers Change Management and Strategy Consulting, Talent Optimization and Analytics, Leadership Development, and Executive/ Leadership Coaching services.
• Increase Self-Awareness: Coaching encourages leaders to examine their own cultural backgrounds, recognizing how their upbringing, experiences, and societal influences have shaped their perspectives. This includes identifying both conscious and unconscious biases related to factors like race, gender, ethnicity, and other social identities. Through reflective exercises such as journaling or guided discussions, leaders can recognize how these biases may influence their leadership style, decision-making, and interactions with others.
• Develop Cultural Knowledge: Coaches provide leaders with a variety of resources to broaden their understanding of different cultures. This may include books, articles, documentaries, and online courses that explore cultural norms, values, communication styles, and social customs across various regions and countries. By engaging with these materials, leaders can gain a deeper appreciation for the diversity of human experience and develop a broader global perspective.
• Enhance Intercultural Skills: Coaching focuses on developing practical skills essential for effective cross-cultural interactions. This includes cultivating active listening skills, which involve paying close attention to both verbal and non-verbal cues, demonstrating empathy and understanding, and asking clarifying questions to ensure accurate comprehension. Coaches can also guide leaders in developing effective communication strategies that are tailored to different cultural contexts. This may involve adjusting communication styles, considering appropriate language and tone, and utilizing visual aids to enhance understanding.
• Create Inclusive Environments: Coaches collaborate with leaders to create a workplace culture where everyone feels valued, respected, and included. This involves fostering a sense of belonging for all team members, regardless of their background, identity, or perspective. Leaders can be guided to establish clear expectations for respectful and inclusive behavior, promote open communication and feedback, and address any instances of discrimination or harassment effectively.
• Drive Organizational Change: Coaching plays a crucial role in integrating cultural intelligence into the core of the organization. This involves working with leaders to align organizational values and goals with a commitment to diversity and inclusion. Embracing cultural identity as a leadership strength is not just a strong moral conviction but a strategic advantage in today's globalized world. For those leaders seeking to cultivate these qualities, leadership coaching provides a valuable tool for developing cultural competence and effectively leveraging their cultural identity to become more impactful and inclusive in their organizations.
DEPEDRO
THE GOAL IS THE JOURNEY, NOT THE END
Depedro is a solo project by Jairo Zavala. Initially it was a band, but Jairo ended up devoting all the time and energy into it and decided to keep the name.
Jairo is a composer, singer, and guitarist. Born in Madrid, Spain; has performed in over 30 countries – singing in Spanish and English. For 12 years he joined the band Calexico from Arizona, learning and breeding the culture of the Mexico-US border firsthand.
Alexis Langagne F. Izquierdo
CRITICS CLASSIFY him as indie-rock, but he does not like to be pigeonholed nor sees the point of doing so. Depedro has rock roots and brings sounds and influences from Latin America, the Mediterranean and Africa in a very provocative way – often collaborating with other artists.
Jairo has this “secondary road” life metaphor to reflect that as humans, we often do things in the opposite direction of what we truly want. . Recently I had the fortune of having a very enriching conversation with him, where I asked him:
1. If 100 years from now you were remembered with one song, which one would that be?
Jairo picked “Te sigo soñando” (“I keep dreaming about you”), it has been performed solo and in collaboration with multiple artists; the version with Luz Casal was featured in the film “The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent” featuring Nicolas Cage. I also consider his interpretation of “La Llorona” (“The weeping woman”), an anonymous Mexican folk song, a true jewel.
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4. What is your next big project?
Often Jairo embarks on social development initiatives, leveraging music and engaging non-profit organizations to improve quality of life in different parts of the World. His most recent project illustrates the importance of artistic education for children in Madagascar, being released in the documentary “Fanantenana” (“Hope” in the local language).
5. What do you think about GenAI in music?
Jairo sees GenAI focused on the “results” and not on the “process”, and as an artist his interest is the “process” (the journey). He asked “what if you ‘write’ a book talking about experiences that you never had in real life? that would be the end of the creative mind”. It’s fine to experiment with GenAI, but he rather stay on his “secondary road”.
2. At what point in your life did you decide to be a musician?
Jairo did not face a crossroad during his life where he needed to make a life decision about music. It was a natural and gradual process; he started spending more time playing, composing, and eventually finding a valuable reason to live.
3. Did you ever have a drawback in your career?
That gradual process did not give room for serious drawbacks, although often kept him away from his family.
Jairo is a true artist from conviction and way of living; continuously looking at how music and art in general, can contribute to a better World!
(No GenAI used in this article).
Alexis Langagne: The author is a passionate music listener and drummer, former Latino Leader's music columnist, and his day job is being a Global Executive in the Information Technology industry; he can be reached at: langagne.alexis@gmail.com
LATINO ART LEADERSHIP
By William Hanhausen Courtesy of Alessandra Albin Carlos Cuevas
“MARVELOUS IN THE MUNDANE”
ALESSANDRA ALBIN’S ALTERNATIVE WORLD
THE ORDINARY MARVELS OF MAGICAL REALISM
Magical realism—an art form where the extraordinary exists within the framework of the ordinary—allows us to see the world anew. It captures the essence of reality while infusing it with elements that defy logic, inviting us to embrace a more inclusive vision of life. Alessandra Albin’s works embody this genre, blending the tangible and the mystical in a way that feels both extraordinary and familiar. Her art reflects her unwavering dedication to portraying the depth of human experience, drawing from her Mexican-Italian heritage and decades of teaching and artistic practice.
The Alessandra Albin’s “Marvelous in the Mundane” journey as an artist, mirrors the ethos of magical realism itself. Like Gabriel García Márquez’s One Hundred Years of Solitude, her art exists in a world where the fantastical emerges naturally from the everyday. Márquez’s moral lesson—the acceptance of fate and the cyclical nature of time—resonates through Albin’s figures, which seem suspended in a timeless dance between the physical and the spiritual. Her work reminds us, as Márquez once wrote, that “the wildest and most tenacious love [is] an ephemeral truth in the end.” Yet, in its fleeting nature, this love, and life itself, gains significance.
Albin’s pieces invite us to embrace an enigma; where levitation, telepathy, and other surreal phenomena coexist with the ordinary. In her “Alternative World,” the supernatural blends seamlessly with the natural, casting new light on human experience. By rendering the miraculous as ordinary, Albin challenges us to see the world with fresh eyes and a heightened awareness of its hidden connections.
Listening and Observing Ernest Hemingway’s touch. He once emphasized the power of truly listening and observing, noting that a room and its emotions could tell their story to those who pay attention. Albin embodies this sentiment in her creative process, listening with her heart and
observing deeply. Her figures, crafted with bold rubs and layered tones, convey not just physical likenesses but the intangible essence of their subjects. Each piece invites the viewer to connect intimately with her work, echoing Hemingway’s belief in the magic of presence.
Albin’s mastery lies in her ability to transform observation into revelation. She notices the smallest details—the play of light on skin, the gestures that speak louder than words—and translates them into visual narratives that bridge the personal and the universal. Her art becomes an act of listening and observing, capturing not only what is seen but also what is felt.
Magical realism, as a genre, thrives on contradiction. The Fusion of Realism and Magic It is rooted in realism, yet it stretches the boundaries of what we accept as real. Albin’s work reflects this duality. Her figures possess a naturalistic clarity, yet they are imbued with a mysticism that transcends the corporeal. She explores the expressive potential of the form, creating compositions that are both grounded and otherworldly. In her hands, the diatonic scale of life becomes a symphony, each interval resonating with emotion and meaning.
This blending of realism and magic allows Albin to critique reality while celebrating its marvels. Her works remind us, as Márquez suggested, that our lives are shaped not only by rationality but also by myths, memories, and dreams. Albin’s depictions are stories of heightened reality,
where elements of the miraculous appear natural and unforced, reflecting the layered complexities of human existence.
In Albin’s moral and marvelous work, we find echoes of Márquez’s themes of solitude and connection. Her figures are simultaneously isolated and interconnected, embodying the contradictions of human experience. Her characters are shaped by the past, yet they transcend it through the transformative power of imagination and art.
Ultimately, Alessandra Albin’s “Alternative World” offers us more than visual beauty; it invites us to question reality, embrace mystery, and see the magic in the mundane. By blending the marvelous with the real, she challenges us to listen, observe, and connect more deeply with the world and with ourselves. Through her art, Albin reminds us that, as Hemingway suggested, the power of presence—of truly listening and seeing—can reveal the extraordinary in the everyday.
Truth aligns with facts and reality. Identifying the truth has become increasingly challenging in today’s interconnected and rapidly evolving world. The influence of social media, the rise in doctored images, and conflicting opinions from experts make the pursuit of truth increasingly complex. Discerning the truth in this evolving environment is more critical than ever.
SEARCHING FOR the truth requires actively questioning what you see, hear, and read rather than passively accepting it. One must look for evidence and credible support for claims. This includes challenging and revising one's beliefs in light of new evidence. Unlearning what is no longer true and relearning new facts is key to ensuring that the truth we perceive aligns with reality.
Challenges to Identifying Truth
Today, technology allows the alteration of photographs and videos in almost undetectable ways. In the past, a picture used to be considered incontrovertible truth - not anymore. Current technology in personal computers, tablets, and smartphones allows convincing but false narratives. The number of artificial intelligence-powered deepfakes will increase, making their detection critical in the search for truth.
Social media platforms are also rife with false or misleading information, which is spread quickly by appealing to emotions rather than reason. Finally, researchers and experts often interpret data differently, making navigating conflicting perspectives difficult. In this challenging ecosystem, strategies to identify the truth are needed.
Strategies for Identifying Truth
The first step in identifying the truth is considering who provides the information. Is it a reputable journalist, an established institution, or an anonymous source? The timing of the information is also critical. Is it current or dated? Often, misinformation is recirculated to cloud our ability to determine what is true objectively.
Double-checking the information using multiple independent sources is important. If multiple reputable organizations or experts agree on a point it is more likely to be true. Using multi-screen technology to see multiple channels or feeds at the same time is valuable to understand how the truth is being portrayed by people or institutions with different ideologies. Finally, using fact checking services that specialize in de-bunking false claims can also be helpful. When in doubt you can consult these types of resources to confirm the veracity of statements.
Building a Culture of Truth
Organizations must place place greater emphasis on fostering a culture that promotes truth telling and empowers individuals to uncover and verify the facts. Individuals must continue to stay informed and use a healthy dose of skepticism to when encountering unverified claims.
Conclusion
In a world where truth is often obscured, the search for it requires vigilance, skepticism, and persistence. While technology has made deception easier, it has also empowered individuals with the right tools to uncover and verify the facts. By staying informed and questioning sources, we can navigate the chaos and bring ourselves closer to the truth.
Ralph de la Vega is the former vice-chairman of AT&T Inc. He is the author of the best-selling book “Obstacles Welcome: Turn Adversity to Advantage in Business and Life.” He is also a LinkedIn Influencer, posting regularly on leadership and innovation.
LATINOS IN C-SUITE 2024
We are proud to showcase a growing list of Latinos in corporate America. Congratulations to all who are showcased for another year and welcome to all new appointments!
THE NEED FOR DIVERSE LEADERSHIP
On behalf of the Hispanic C-Suite Corporate Council (HC3), I congratulate every man and woman on the Latino Leaders Magazine list to acknowledge their incredible accomplishment as leaders in their company, not only in their industry but as leaders in corporate America.
As we move toward a more globalized and interconnected business environment, the need for diverse leadership has never been more evident. Across all sectors, companies are realizing that diversity is not just a matter of fairness or social responsibility—it is also a matter of performance. Among the many groups that should be actively represented at the highest levels of leadership, the Hispanic community stands out as both a key demographic and a source of untapped potential.
The Hispanic C-Suite Corporate Council (HC3) is the premier organization for Hispanic Leaders in Corporate America. Our mission via the “Push Up Pull Up” theme is to increase the number of successful Hispanic executives by delivering value to their development, leadership, and philanthropic endeavors, thereby strengthening their companies, organizations, and communities. Our mantra of “Advocacy, Accountability, and Appreciation” will help executives ensure they value their identity and recognize their greatness.
The Hispanic population is one of the fastest-growing segments in the workforce, with projections showing that by 2060, nearly one in three U.S. residents will be of Hispanic or Latino origin. This demographic already represents a significant portion of consumer spending and workforce talent. Yet, despite these numbers, Hispanics remain underrepresented in leadership positions, particularly at the C-suite level. According to the Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility (HACR) 2023 Corporate Inclusion Index, just 5% of executive positions are held by Hispanics, with less than 2% of them being Latinas.
Incorporating more Hispanic executives into the highest ranks of leadership is not just a matter of social responsibility—it is a strategic business imperative. Hispanic leaders bring unique perspectives that can help businesses navigate an increasingly diverse and complex global market. From cultural insights that better connect companies to the Latino consumer base, to innovative approaches shaped by diverse life experiences, Hispanic executives can provide fresh solutions to the challenges facing organizations today.
Furthermore, research consistently shows that diverse leadership teams outperform their less diverse counterparts. Companies with a higher level of ethnic diversity are more likely to be innovative, have higher profitability, and experience better decision-making processes. The inclusion of Hispanic leaders in the C-suite can help unlock these benefits by fostering a culture of innovation, adaptability, and empathy. It can also send a powerful message to employees, customers, and stakeholders that the company values diverse perspectives and is committed to reflecting the communities it serves.
The path to achieving greater Hispanic representation in the C-suite requires a concerted effort to break down barriers and provide support for the next generation of Hispanic executives. This includes mentorship, sponsorship, and leadership development programs designed to cultivate diverse talent. It also means creating inclusive organizational cultures where individuals from all backgrounds can thrive and advance to the highest levels of leadership. That is purpose of HC3. Visit www.hc3global.com to learn more.
As we look toward the future, I urge companies to recognize the immense value that Hispanic leaders bring to the table and to make a conscious effort to elevate them into positions of influence. By doing so, we can ensure that our organizations are not only more diverse but also better equipped to drive sustainable success in a rapidly changing world.
The HC3 partnership with Latino Leaders Magazine is an important element and one of many partnerships to make our community even more strong, have a more powerful voice, and earn many more seats at the table. Let’s celebrate our duality of being 100% American and 100% Hispanic.
Congratulations Again,
Andre Arbelaez President and CEO
Hispanic C-Suite Corporate Council www.hc3global.com
EDUARDO "ED" JIMENEZ
ENTERGY LOUISIANA, LL VICE PRESIDENT & BUSINESS & ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Jimenez is vice president of business and economic development for Entergy Louisiana, LLC. He is responsible for developing revenue growth initiatives and goals and establishing commercial programs and policies that support the annual sales plan including economic development, major industrial accounts, and competitive large residential and commercial developments.
MICHAEL DURAN
3M SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF ETHICS & COMPLIANCE OFFICER
Duran directs a team that designs and implements global controls that mitigate corruption and compliance risk, including training and communication, third party due diligence, internal evaluations and audits for compliance risk, M&A due diligence and compliance integration, and the compliance risk assessment process.
TAMMY GOMEZ
3M HEALTHCARE
CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER
Gomez is a results-oriented HR executive with a diverse background in HR, finance, and operations. Known for building high-performing organizations and leading successful transformations, she is passionate about delivering results and fostering strong teams. Currently serving as Chief Human Resources Officer at 3M Healthcare and Solventum, Gomez combines strong functional knowledge with a big-picture perspective, navigating complex issues while maintaining a collaborative, optimistic, and tenacious leadership style.
OSCAR CARRASCO
A-MARK PRECIOUS METALS
CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER
Carrasco is the Chief Information Officer at A-Mark, bringing over 30 years of experience in information technology and operations. Since joining A-Mark in 2019, he has significantly enhanced the company's data reporting and IT organizational success, earning multiple promotions, culminating in his appointment as CIO in 2024. Before A-Mark, Oscar held leadership roles at global brands like Coca-Cola, Pepsi, DIRECTV, and AT&T, focusing on operational efficiency, business intelligence, and innovative IT solutions. He holds a BS degree from the University of Southern California.
NADEEN AYALA
ABM INDUSTRIES
CHIEF CULTURE & COMMUNICATION OFFICER
Ayala is a results-driven corporate communication leader who has developed a reputation for creating and executing purpose-driven corporate, executive and external communication strategies that drive key business objectives. She has oversight for our corporate communication strategy and oversees internal communication, media relations, social media, reputation management and corporate sustainability and philanthropy. Prior to ABM, Nadeen spent more than two decades in the hospitality and publishing industries.
JOSE VARELA 3M
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & GLOBAL SERVICE CENTERS
Varela, previously served as SVP of Emerging Markets and Enterprise Program Management Office. Jose has held various area and global leadership business and functional roles throughout his 34-year career at 3M, at 3M HQs in the USA and at international locations such as Chile, Mexico, Brazil and Hong Kong. Jose holds a degree in Computer Programming, studied Business Administration, and currently completing Master of Science, Computer Science and International Business through University of Cumbria, England.
KARINA CHAVEZ
PRESIDENT & CONSUMER
Chavez leads 3M’s Consumer Business Group, home to some of the company’s most iconic brands. Throughout her life and career, Karina has lived and worked around the world, with extensive experience leading strategy and operations at 3M. She joined the company in 2008 as a marketing and public affairs manager for 3M Mexico.
BRIAN AQUILINO
A-MARK PRECIOUS METALS
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Aquilino has been with A-Mark since 2001. Aquilino brings to A-Mark over 25 years operations and logistics experience. Since joining A-Mark in 2001, Aquilino’s strategic thought leadership has had a pivotal role in transforming A-Mark into a global enterprise servicing millions of highly satisfied customers through multiple lines of business.
RAÚL VALENTIN
ABM INDUSTRIES
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER
Valentin joined ABM in 2019 and has served as the people leader. Raúl is dedicated to cultivating a stronger ABM community by growing and developing our people and fostering an inclusive culture where everyone is seen, heard, and valued. With more than 30 years of human resources and management experience, Raúl has held key HR leadership roles at Coty, Comcast, and Frito-Lay.
THOMAS CASTELLANO
ABZENA CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Castellano has primary responsibility for planning, implementing, managing, and running of all the finance activities at Abzena.Tom joined Abzena from Catalent where he served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. He has over 20 years of corporate finance and capital market experience.
RENE G. CASARES
ACADEMY SPORTS AND OUTDOORS
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & GENERAL COUNSEL AND CORPORATE SECRETARY
Casares has served as our Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary since March 2018. He joined the company in July 2013 as Senior Director, Associate General Counsel and served as Vice President, Associate General Counsel and Assistant Secretary from March 2016 to March 2018. Prior to joining Academy Sports + Outdoors, he served as an Associate Attorney at the global law firm, Vinson & Elkins LLP.
JOHN AYALA
ADP
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Ayala is responsible for service delivery to ADP’s clients around the globe. Leading a team focused on providing an integrated approach to payroll, tax, benefits, and HR, John works to help companies of all sizes work smarter and drive their business forward. Previously, John served as President of Employer Services North America, where he was responsible for driving growth and operational excellence across ADP’s domestic portfolio.
RICARDO MANUEL FALÚ
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER AND PRESIDENT & NEW ENERGY TECHNOLOGIES
Falú unites our company’s global operations to accelerate the delivery of greener, smarter energy solutions to our customers and communities. Over the last 20 years, Ricardo has brought his diverse experiences in energy, finance, legal and business to AES.
JUAN IGNACIO RUBIOLO
AES
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & PRESIDENT, ENERGY INFRASTRUCTURE
Rubiolo has worked at AES since 2001 and in 2022 was named Executive Vice President and President, International Businesses. Under his leadership, AES continues to grow its renewables and natural gas platforms in the region to ensure critical diversification, cleaner reliability and reduce reliance on oil to help our partners achieve their emissions and energy goals.
GUILLERMO GUALINO
AGILENT TECHNOLOGIES
VICE PRESIDENT & TREASURER
Gualino is VP and Treasurer at Agilent Technologies, overseeing capital markets, foreign exchange, and liquidity management. He joined Agilent in 2011 as Assistant Treasurer and became Treasurer in 2014. Previously, he held finance roles at Flextronics, Ernst & Young, PwC, and Ventana Growth Fund. Treasury & Risk Management named him a "Top 40 Under 40" in finance in 2007. Gualino holds an MBA from UCLA and a B.S. in Mechanical-Electrical Engineering from Universidad La Salle, Mexico City.
ISA DIAZ
ACADIA HEALTHCARE
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & STRATEGIC AFFAIRS
Diaz joined Acadia Healthcare in February 2019. She currently serves as Senior Vice President of Strategic Affairs. In her role, she is responsible for spearheading and developing behavioral health partnerships across the country. Prior to joining Acadia, Mrs. Diaz worked for Universal Health Services, Inc.’s (UHS) behavioral health division for more than 11 years.
BERNERD DA SANTOS
AES
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & PRESIDENT, RENEWABLES
Da Santos served as Chief Operating Officer from 2015 to 2023, spearheading the remarkable transformation of AES’ operations. In his more than 20 years with AES, Bernerd has held a variety of leadership positions and remained passionate about promoting a culture of purpose, safety, collaboration, innovation, and delivering highest standards to customers and communities.
TISH MENDOZA
AES
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER
Mendoza unites our people around the world with creative strategies and tools to ensure every AES person develops to their fullest potential. Since joining AES in 2006, Tish has initiated holistic transformations to the culture, communication strategies and talent development programs.
INES RODRIGUEZ GUTZMER
AFLAC
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Rodriguez is an award-winning global communications executive, overseeing Aflac’s public and media relations, crisis management, executive, employee, digital and sales communications, and corporate social responsibility initiatives. Across more than two decades of experience, she has held leadership positions with major brands — Equifax, Best Buy, Procter & Gamble, The Home Depot, IBM and Xerox — as well as global marketing and public relations agencies, Ketchum, Ogilvy and Burson Cohn & Wolfe.
ROSE MARIE GLAZER
AIG
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & GENERAL COUNSEL
Glazer is the Executive Vice President and General Counsel of AIG, overseeing legal, compliance, regulatory, government affairs, Global Security, and the Sustainability Office. Since joining AIG in 2017, she has held roles including Chief Human Resources & Diversity Officer. Previously, she was General Counsel – Americas at Siemens AG and held legal roles at Telvista and American Airlines. She serves on the Corebridge Financial board and holds a law degree and dual BBA/BA from SMU.
JENNIFER SAENZ
ALBERTSON'S COMPANIES INC
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF MERCHANDISING OFFICER
LUCIANO
RAMOS
Saenz has extensive global industry experience and a proven track record of driving growth through marketing, analytics, and product innovation, all grounded in a deep understanding of the consumer. Her career includes 15 years at PepsiCo, including serving as Global Chief Marketing Officer and President, Global Foods.
LISA GONZALEZ ANSELMO
ALTICE USA
EXECUTIVE
Gonzalez as Executive Vice President, Communications oversees external and internal communications activities for Altice USA. In this role, Anselmo is the company’s primary spokesperson and provides communications oversight over the company’s corporate strategy and business developments as well as its telecommunications, consumer and business services and media content offerings nationwide.
SUSANA SUAREZ GONZALEZ
AMCOR
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER
Suarez is responsible for leading Amcor’s global human resources function, with a strong focus on continuing to invest in talent and organizational development as levers for delivering strategy and growth. Gonzalez brings more than 31 years of human resources experience, driving talent and growth in business-to-business organizations. Her most recent role was as Executive Vice President, Chief Human Resources and Diversity & Inclusion Officer at International Flavors and Fragrances (IFF).
ROBERT GAMA
Gama works with the global human resources team to solve AMD’s most complex people, culture, talent and leadership challenges. With more than 20 years of business and functional experience, Gama is a proven, results-oriented leader with demonstrated ability to drive business outcomes through strategic HR practices.
CECILIA PARDO
Pardo is an experienced senior HR executive with demonstrated abilities in HR strategy and execution planning, leadership development and succession planning, talent management, organizational design and development, performance management, workforce planning, and talent program design and delivery. She joined American National in 2019.
Ramos oversees all Technology, Product Development, Network Operations and Information Technology for the Company. Prior to joining Altice USA in March of 2023, Ramos led the Network Engineering & Technology Development group at Rogers Communications and before that, led technology and product teams in Latin America for over 20 years.
CARLA CHAVARRIA
AMC THEATERS
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & HUMAN RESOURCES
Chavarria is responsible for all aspects of human resources including talent acquisition, diversity, equity and inclusion, learning & development, total rewards, engagement, internal communications, human capital management systems, office services, and community relations. Chavarria began her AMC career in 1988 as a theatre manager in Philadelphia.
SUSANA SUAREZ
AMCOR
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER
Suarez is an experienced EVP and Chief Human Resources Officer at Amcor, with over 34 years in industries like packaging, health, and engineering. She leads Amcor’s global HR function, focusing on talent development, organizational growth, and digitization. Previously, she was CHRO at IFF and spent over 25 years at Fluor, living in 15+ countries. Known for her transformational leadership, Suarez has strong expertise in strategy, change management, and M&A. She also serves on various boards.
J. ANDRES ESPINOSA
AMERICAN EXPRESS CHIEF CREDIT OFFICE
Espinosa is passionate about building strong teams, promoting collaboration across lines of business, and developing the next generation of exceptional credit and fraud risk leaders. Andres is a member of the company's Executive Committee, Enterprise Risk Management Committee and is executive sponsor of the Hispanic Executive Leadership diversity network.
ESTEBAN SANTOS
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & OPERATIONS
Santos is responsible for the Operations organization, which encompasses Manufacturing, Process Development, Quality, Engineering and Global Supply Chain. Prior, Santos was senior vice president, Manufacturing, responsible for operations at Amgen's commercial manufacturing. Santos joined Amgen in 2007 as executive director, Manufacturing Technologies.
NANCY AVILA
ANALOG DEVICES
CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER
Avila is an accomplished semiconductor, healthcare, and technology executive with extensive experience in driving transformation and change. Currently, she serves as Chief Information Officer at Analog Devices, a global leader in semiconductor solutions, and is a board member at Haleon, a leading consumer healthcare company. Avila holds a Master’s in Mathematics from Colorado School of Mines and a dual Bachelor's in Computer Information Systems and Mathematics from Regis University.
JUAN RICARDO LUCIANO
ARCHER
DANIELS MIDLAND
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Luciano is the chair of the board, president, and chief executive officer of ADM. He joined the company in 2011 as executive vice president and COO, becoming president in 2014 and CEO in 2015. Under his leadership, ADM has transformed into a global nutrition business, leveraging innovative technologies. Prior to ADM, Luciano spent 25 years at The Dow Chemical Company, where he was executive vice president. Luciano holds an industrial engineering degree from the Buenos Aires Institute of Technology.
GUILLERMO NOVO
ASHLAND
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Novo is the Chair of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Ashland, a role he has held since December 2019. He joined Ashland’s Board in May 2019. Previously, he was the President and CEO of Versum Materials and held executive roles at Air Products and Dow Chemical. Novo’s career began in 1986 at Rohm and Haas. He holds an industrial engineering degree from the University of Central Florida and an MBA from the University of Michigan.
THADDEUS ARROYO
AT&T
CHIEF STRATEGY & DEVELOPMENT OFFICER
Arroyo, AT&T Chief Strategy and Development Officer, oversees corporate strategy, corporate development, venture investments, and strategic business development supporting AT&T’s long-term growth. He is on the Board of Directors for Global Payments Inc., as well as for the National Center for Women & Information Technology and the SMU Cox School of Business. Thaddeus has a B.S. in mathematics from the University of Texas at Arlington and an MBA from Southern Methodist University.
JORDI LOMBARTE
AUTOLIV
CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER
Lombarte, during the course of a thirty year career with Autoliv, he has held numerous positions of increasing responsibility. Prior to his current role, Lombarte served as Vice President Engineering of Autoliv Passive Safety, a segment of Autoliv, between April 2017 and April 2018. Prior to that, he served as Vice President Engineering, Autoliv Americas, a division, from August 2013 to April 2017.
JASON VASQUEZ
APPLIED INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGIES
VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES & MARKETING, U.S. SERVICE CENTERS
Vasquez joined Applied® in 1999 as part of the Company’s college recruitment program titled COMET (Career Opportunity Management & Employment Training). In 2000, he was named Account Manager at the Youngstown, OH service center, followed by Service Center Manager and then General Manager at our Elyria service center. Vasquez joined the Strategic Accounts group in 2004 as National Account Specialist – Automotive.
MARCELO MORGUETA
ARCONIC
EVP & CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Morgueta is the Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Arconic Corporation. With nearly two decades of experience in the aluminum industry, Marcelo has held leadership roles across Finance, Tax, Controllership, Treasury, and Corporate Development since joining Arconic in 2005. He previously served as Vice President, Finance and Treasurer. Marcelo holds a Bachelor’s in Business Administration and an MBA in Finance from UNESP and Fundação Getúlio Vargas in Brazil.
MANNY BECERRA ASSURANT
CHIEF INNOVATION OFFICER
Becerra was appointed to this newly created role in July 2021, he is responsible for advancing the company’s growth, based on a global innovation agenda. In January 2022, Becerra also will join Assurant’s Management Committee (MCOM). He leads an enterprise center of excellence solely focused on driving market-leading innovation.
JUAN ZAPATA
ATLAS AIR WORLDWIDE
VICE PRESIDENT HEAD OF TECHNICAL
Zapata is the Vice President of Technical at Titan Aviation Leasing, where he oversees technical asset management for the company's aircraft portfolio, including lease negotiations, aircraft transitions, cargo conversions, and ongoing management. With over 25 years of experience in the dry leasing and MRO/freighter conversion industry, Zapata has held key roles at companies like Commercial Jet, Aeronautical Engineers, and Vx Capital. He holds a bachelor’s degree in aviation maintenance management from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, along with several industry certifications.
ALBERT SALTIEL
AUTOZONE, INC.
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & MARKETING AND E-COMMERCE & CUSTOMER
SATISFACTION
Saltiel was named Senior Vice President, Marketing in April 2013. From 2011 to 2013, Saltiel served as Chief Marketing Officer at Navistar International Corporation. He also held other key management roles including President, NC2, a Caterpillar and Navistar company and Vice President, Marketing for Navistar International Corporation. Mr. Saltiel also served as General Manager, Marketing at Sony Electronics.
DOMINGO HURTADO
AUTOZONE, INC.
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & INTERNATIONAL & CUSTOMER SATISFACTION
Hurtado was named Senior Vice President, International in September 2018. From 2001 to 2018 he served as Presidente, AutoZone de México. He was instrumental leading the company’s expansion into México. Prior to 2001, Hurtado was with RadioShack where he held various positions including Director General in México and General Manager in Venezuela.
IGNACIO WALKER
AVERY DENNISON
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF LEGAL OFFICER
Walker is the senior vice president and chief legal officer for Avery Dennison Corporation. He is responsible for the legal aspects of the company’s global strategy and operations, including corporate policies and strategic planning, shareholder protection, mergers, acquisitions and divestitures, intellectual property, risk management, corporate governance and compliance.
SANTIAGO VICTOR REDONDO
BAKER HUGHES
GLOBAL CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER & DIGITAL SOLUTIONS & INDUSTRIAL ASSET MANAGEMENT
Redondo has 20 years of experience as a finance executive in multiple industries and geographies, he is currently the chief financial officer for global operations at Baker Hughes, a GE Company. Santiago`s has a strong and successful track record of commercial innovation, business development.
Guzman joined Beacon in August 2020. Prior to Beacon, Guzman was the Vice President & Chief Accounting Officer of Liquidity Services, a publicly traded global solutions provider in the asset management and supply chain sector, since June 2018. From August 2016 to June 2018, he was the Senior Director – Assistant Corporate Controller for Orbital ATK.
RACHAEL VEGAS
BJS WHOLESALE CLUB EVP &, CHIEF MERCHANDISING OFFICER
Vegas is the Executive Vice President and Chief Merchandising Officer at BJ’s Wholesale Club, where she leads the company’s merchandising, assortment planning, and allocation strategy. She joined BJ’s in 2021, bringing over 20 years of experience in grocery and general merchandise. Previously, Rachael held senior roles at H-E-B Grocery, including Senior Vice President of eCommerce Merchandising. She was also Chief Merchant at Brandless and spent 13 years in leadership roles at Target. Rachael holds an MBA from UNC’s Kenan-Flagler Business School and a bachelor’s in International Relations from Tufts University.
AL MORALES
AVAYA
CHIEF TRANSFORMATION OFFICER
Morales is the Chief Transformation Officer at Avaya, bringing over 30 years of global leadership experience in finance, business transformation, and operations. He has successfully led transformation programs aimed at driving business excellence and innovation. Throughout his career, Morales has held leadership roles at PwC, TD SYNNEX, Tech Data, AmerisourceBergen, AT&T, and most recently, Tenneco. He is a Certified Public Accountant with a bachelor’s degree in accounting and a master’s in taxation from Florida International University.
MARIA CLAUDIA BORRAS
BAKER HUGHES
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & OILFIELD SERVICES & EQUIPMENT
Borras is Executive Vice President of Oilfield Services & Equipment at Baker Hughes and is responsible for leading approximately 33,000 employees and setting the value-creation strategies of the business. Borras has more than 25 years of experience in the oil & gas sector. From 2017 to 2022, she served as Executive Vice President of Oilfield Services at Baker Hughes, and previously served as Chief Commercial Officer at GE Oil & Gas.
ALEJANDRO PEREZ
BANK OF NEW YORK MELLON CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER
Perez oversees global HR, corporate real estate, and operational excellence. With 20+ years in financial services and tech, he has led at Goldman Sachs, Bloomberg, and Unqork. A board member of Project BASTA, he holds a Mechanical Engineering degree from the University of Alabama and an MBA from NYU Stern.
JUAN GUERRERO
BIG LOTS
SVP & CHIEF SUPPLY CHAIN OFFICER
Guerrero is the Senior Vice President and Chief Supply Chain Officer at Big Lots, overseeing product movement from vendor to store, including distribution, transportation, replenishment, and eCommerce fulfillment. With over 30 years of experience in retail and supply chain operations, Juan has held senior leadership roles at companies like Bed Bath & Beyond, FleetPride, Office Depot, Starbucks, and Bloomin’ Brands. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from MIT and has completed executive development programs. Juan is fluent in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.
LISSETTE GONZALEZ
BLOOMIN' BRANDS
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF SUPPLY CHAIN & OPERATIONS EXCELLENCE
OFFICER
Gonzalez is responsible for overseeing the company’s global supply chain, including planning, sourcing, food safety, and logistics strategies for domestic and international markets. Previously, Lissette served as Vice President with oversight for the Global Procurement and Planning & Forecasting areas.
ANNETTE RODRIGUEZ
BLOOMIN' BRANDS
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF DATA OFFICER & FRANCHISING
Rodriguez was named Senior Vice President, U.S. Development and Franchising in December 2019, after serving as Group Vice President for Design & Construction and U.S. Franchising. She leads domestic development efforts for Bloomin’ Brands, including real estate, design and construction, franchising, and facilities maintenance. Annette joined Bloomin’ Brands in 2014.
JORGE ZEMBORAIN
BRINK'S GENERAL COUNSEL LATIN AMERICA & INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
Zemborain is a commercial attorney who oversees Brink’s legal team in Latin America and the Caribbean, where the company employs about 30,000 people. He also serves as counsel for intellectual property matters worldwide. Jorge previously worked as in-house legal counsel with News Corp./Fox and BP (British Petroleum).
CATALINA VARGAS
BRISTOL-MYERS SQUIBB
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAIN
Vargas currently leads a team of more than 600 employees working to seamlessly plan and deliver medicines to patients in more than 50 countries around the world. Prior to her current role, Catalina was Chief of Staff to the CEO of BMS where she led important strategic enterprise-wide initiatives. Catalina has an exceptional record of building high performing and agile global teams.
ILDEFONSO SILVA
C3 AI
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CUSTOMER SOLUTIONS
Silva is currently SVP of Customer Solutions at C3 AI. He previously served as Executive Vice President of Business Services and Digital at Tyson Foods. Silva holds an MBA in Management from INSEAD and a B.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering with a Mechatronics major from Universidade de São Paulo. With expertise in strategy, consumer products, and business strategy, he brings a wealth of experience in strategic consulting, digital transformation, and start-ups.
NELLY MOLINA
CALIFORNIA
RESOURCES
CORPORATION
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
& CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Seasoned executive with more than 25 years of experience in the energy sector in the US and Mexico. Prior to CRC she held various senior finance leadership roles at Sempra, including serving as Chief Financial Officer of IEnova. Previously, Nelly served in leadership roles with Kinder Morgan and the former El Paso Corporation in Mexico. She is a director at Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vesta. Nelly holds a degree in accounting by Universidad de Sonora and a master’s degree in finance by ITESM.
HORACIO ROZANSKI
BOOZ ALLEN HAMILTON
PRESIDENT AND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Rozanski has over 30 years at the firm, transforming it into a top technology integrator for the U.S. federal government. He played a key role in its 2010 IPO and previously served as COO and Chief Personnel Officer. Born in Argentina, Rozanski also serves on the boards of Children’s National Hospital and Marriott International. He holds a B.B.A. from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire and an M.B.A. from the University of Chicago.
DANIEL CASTILLO
BRINK'S
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & PRESIDENT, NORTH AMERICA
Castillo is responsible for oversight of the company’s North American operating segment, which employs about 12,000 people in Canada and the U.S. Prior to joining Brink’s, Daniel served as the executive vice president and president, North America at JELD-WEN, Inc., one of the world’s largest building products manufacturers.
GERMÁN SOTO SANCHEZ
BROADRIDGE FINANCIAL SOLUTIONS
CHIEF PRODUCT & STRATEGY OFFICER
Soto is Chief Product and Strategy Officer at Broadridge Financial Solutions, overseeing enterprise product functions, AI, innovation, and strategic planning. Previously, he was President of Cloud9 Technologies, led strategic investments at JPMorgan Chase, and worked at McKinsey & Co. Germán holds an MBA from Stanford GSB and a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from MIT, bringing extensive leadership and problem-solving expertise to drive innovation and growth.
FRANCISCO J. LEON
CALIFORNIA RESOURCES
PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Leon has been a part of California Resources Corporation for the past 8 years. He took on his current position in 2020, previously serving as Vice President Portafolio Management and Strategic Planning. Prior to joinng California Resources Corporation, Leon held different positions at Oxy and Occidental Petroleum.
JORGE SAHLIEH
CARDINAL HEALTH
PRESIDENT OF INTERNATIONAL MEDICAL PRODUCTS AND DISTRIBUTION
Sahlieh leads commercial operations across global regions. With 20+ years in healthcare and medical devices, he joined Cardinal Health in 2018, driving growth in Latin America. Previously, he held leadership roles at Stryker Corporation. Sahlieh holds a bachelor’s in Civil Construction from Pontificia Universidad Católica in Chile and a Master’s in International Management from King’s College, London.
AMELIA Z. MURILLO
CARLISLE
VICE PRESIDENT FINANCE & CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Murillo has an extensive career at Carlisle of over 10 years. She has served Carlisle in financial and management roles at Carlisle Interconnect Technologies and, most recently, has led talent management and development initiatives as the Vice President, Human Resources.
PAUL SUAREZ
CASEY'S GENERAL STORES
VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF INFORMATION SECURITY OFFICER
A graduate of the US Air Force Academy, Suarez served his entire 27-year Air Force career in the fields of cybersecurity and information technology. After his military retirement he worked in business development in the Washington, DC area for Netwitness, RSA Security and Avaya then as security engineering director for Walmart prior to becoming their CISO for Walmart International. He joined Casey’s, the country’s 3rd largest convenience store chain, in March 2021 as their very first CISO.
ANN ANAYA
CENCORA
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF DIVERSITY, EQUITY, & INCLUSION OFFICER
Anaya joined AmerisourceBergen in 2022, she is responsible for driving AmerisourceBergen’s global DEI strategy to enable a more inclusive culture, and foster more engaging environments. Prior to assuming her role at AmerisourceBergen, Anaya spent nearly nine years at 3M, with the past five years as their Chief Diversity Officer and Vice President of Global Inclusion.
KENNETH "KENNY" MERCADO
CENTERPOINT ENERGY (QUANTA SERVICES, INC)
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT, ELECTRIC UTILITY
A more than 35-year veteran of CenterPoint Energy and predecessor companies, Kenny is Executive Vice President, Electric Utility. In this role, he oversees the company’s electric business, responsible for leading electric transmission, distribution, engineering and power delivery solutions in the greater Houston area and Evansville, Indiana, where he also leads electric generation.
GERARDO FAMILIAR
CHEMOURS
PRESIDENT & ADVANCED PERFORMANCE MATERIALS
Familiar brings more than 20 years of experience across sales, marketing, strategy, product management, and finance. His varied experiences across the company helped shape his leadership style and provides a unique perspective. He is also passionate about producing critical chemistries that are innovative, responsibly manufactured, and play an essential role in a more sustainable economy.
ENRIQUE MAYOR-MORA
CARMAX
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Mayor-Mora is responsible for leading the financial planning, accounting, treasury, internal audit, investor relations, tax, real estate, procurement, and facilities functions for CarMax.Mayor-Mora has been instrumental in driving CarMax’s capital allocation strategy, which has help transform the company from a traditional retailer into a leading omni-channel and e-commerce organization.
LAURA HORTAS
CATALENT PHARMA SOLUTIONS
VICE PRESIDENT & HEAD OF COMMUNICATIONS
Hortas is Vice President and Head of Communications at Catalent Pharma Solutions, with over 20 years of experience in corporate communications, media relations, and issues management. She previously held leadership roles at Bristol Myers Squibb, Novartis, and Bayer Pharmaceuticals. Laura holds a JD from the University of Connecticut School of Law and is based in Philadelphia, PA. Known for her expertise in internal and external communications, she drives impactful messaging strategies.
LESLIE DONATO
CENCORA
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER
Donato architects and leads the organization’s long-term growth strategy and oversees initiatives that aim to diversify the organization’s portfolio through innovative build or buy opportunities. Donato has over 25 years of long-range strategy and healthcare industry expertise. Prior to her current role, she was the Vice President of Strategy at Bayer Pharmaceuticals.
CHRISTIAN RUIZ
CHARTER COMMUNICATIONS
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & SALES
Ruiz is Executive Vice President, Sales at Charter Communications. He is responsible for all residential and small- and medium-sized business (SMB) sales and retention functions, including Direct Sales, Inbound Sales and Retention call centers, Spectrum Stores, Telemarketing, Digital Sales Center, Strategic Channels, and Retail Partners.
CARLOS LONDONO
CHIPOTLE MEXICAN GRILL
VICE PRESIDENT & SUPPLY CHAIN
Londono is responsible for all aspects of supply chain including direct and indirect procurement, logistics, planning and continuous improvement. Prior to Chipotle, Mr. Londono was the global Vice President of Supply Chain for Owens-Illinois Inc. (O-I), a $6 Billion global manufacturing company that specializes in glass container products for industries such as food, beverages, and pharmaceuticals.
CARLOS LINARES
CHURCH & DWIGHT
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER & GLOBAL NEW PRODUCT INNOVATION
Linares has been Executive Vice President, Chief Technology Officer & Global New Product Innovation since April 2022 and the Executive Vice President, Global Research & Development since June 2017. He currently serves on the board of trustees for TRI Princeton (Vice Chair) and the board of directors for The American Cleaning Institute.
ALEXANDRA LOPEZ
CISCO SYSTEMS
CHIEF PROCUREMENT OFFICER AND SVP
Lopez is Chief Procurement Officer and Senior Vice President of Global Procurement Services at Cisco Systems, leading the organization responsible for the end-to-end buying ecosystem. She also leads Cisco’s enterprise contingent workforce strategy and the continuous digital transformation evolution across the holistic operation. Prior to Cisco, Alexandra held executive leadership roles at Fortune 500 companies, including Kaiser Permanente and Hewlett Packard.
GONZALO LUCHETTI
CITIGROUP INC.
HEAD OF U.S. PERSONAL BANKING
Luchetti leads U.S. Personal Banking at Citi, focusing on a seamless client experience and digital innovation for over 70 million customers. With previous roles including Head of Consumer Bank for Asia and EMEA, he drives growth through strategic transformations and digital advancements. Gonzalo holds an MBA from Stanford University Graduate School of Business and brings a wealth of experience from Citi, JPMorgan Chase, and Bain & Company.
Lima has over 25 years of global sales and customer success leadership experience. He oversees the strategy and execution of all go-to-market functions at Citrix. Lima has served on the Board of Hispanic Unity of Florida and recently concluded his role on the Board of Workforce Software after its acquisition by ADP. He holds an Economics degree from Brown University.
KAREN J. DETORO
CNO FINANCIAL GROUP
PRESIDENT & WORKSITE DIVISION
DeToro oversees sales and operations for CNO Financial Group's worksite business. Previously, she was CNO's Chief Actuary, leading actuarial, product development, and risk management. She also held leadership roles at New York Life and was a principal at Deloitte Consulting. DeToro holds a bachelor's degree from Butler University and an MBA from Northwestern's Kellogg School of Management. She is a Fellow of the Society of Actuaries and an advocate for diversity as an executive sponsor of CNO's PRISM LGBTQ+ group.
MARIA MARTINEZ
CISCO SYSTEMS
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Martínez is responsible for the company’s operations and transformation, as well as building high-value experiences for its customers, partners, and employees. Martinez oversees Cisco’s Strategy Execution, Customer Success, Renewals, Customer & Partner Experience, Security & Trust, Supply Chain, IT, Services, and Transformation functions. Maria has more than 35 years of leadership experience from a variety of technology sectors including software, services, hardware and networking technology.
Martinez is Senior Vice President of Customer Experience and Operations Finance at Cisco. Since joining in 2006, he has led teams across Sales, Supply Chain, and Global Partner Finance, and played a key role in transforming Cisco’s Renewals organization. Prior to Cisco, Jose held finance roles at Hitachi, IBM, and Morgan Stanley. He holds a B.S. in Business Administration from San Jose State University and leads Cisco's Finance Latino Mentor Circle.
CELSO GONCALVES
CLEVELAND CLIFFS
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Goncalves leads the financial organization for Cleveland-Cliffs Inc., with executive responsibility for Finance, Accounting, Tax, Treasury, Investor Relations, and Business Development. Prior to his present role, Goncalves was Senior Vice President of Finance & Treasurer, managing the company’s cash, liquidity, and capital structure.
TONY GOMES
CLOUD SOFTWARE GROUP
CHIEF LEGAL AND ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER
Gomes is a senior executive at Cloud Software Group, where he leads a global team overseeing legal, compliance, security, digital risk, human resources, and corporate marketing. He also chairs the security governance committee, focusing on cyber risk management. Cloud Software Group was formed in 2022 through the merger of Citrix and TIBCO, creating a software portfolio serving over 400,000 customers and 100 million users worldwide.
MANUEL ARROYO
COCA-COLA
EVP & GLOBAL CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER
Arroyo is the Executive Vice President and Global Chief Marketing Officer at The Coca-Cola Company, overseeing global marketing efforts, including digital marketing, media, and brand strategy. He was appointed CMO in 2020 after serving as President of Coca-Cola's Asia Pacific group. Arroyo's career spans leadership roles across Europe, the U.S., and Asia, including CEO of Deoleo and senior positions at S.C. Johnson & Son. He holds degrees in Business Administration and Law from ICADE in Madrid and sits on the board of Coca-Cola EuroPacific Partners.
JUAN OTERO
COMCAST CORPORATION
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & DIVERSITY, EQUITY AND INCLUSION
Otero leads DE&I initiatives across Comcast NBCUniversal, focusing specifically on governance, public policy, and strategic employee engagement. He also supports integration of DE&I into Comcast NBCUniversal’s community impact initiatives. Previously, Juan served as Vice President for Comcast NBCUniversal’s Federal Government Affairs team.
DEBBIE GONZALEZ (VREDENBURG)
CONCENTRIX
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & GLOBAL MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS
Gonzales is a seasoned CMO/CBO with a passion for growth who uses a customer-focused vision—supporting Concentrix’ clients’ need for exceptional CX and overseeing Concentrix’ marketing and communications efforts. An inventive expert in developing and executing fresh, leading brand strategies for global businesses.
RENE RAMOS
CONSTELLATION BRANDS
VICE PRESIDENT & SPONSORSHIPS, FIELD MARKETING
Ramos is Constellation's vice president, events/sponsorships/field marketing, reporting to Jim Sabia, president - beer division. Rene is a member of the marketing leadership team.
NINA MAYAGOITIA GARCIA
CONSTELLATION BRANDS
VICE PRESIDENT & COMMUNICATIONS & CSR BEER SUPPLY CHAIN
Mayagoitia, with over 35 years of experience in marketing, CSR, and crisis management at companies like GM Mexico and Heineken, holds advanced degrees in public policy, business, and communication. Recognized by Forbes as one of Mexico's 100 most powerful women in 2020, she is passionate about sustainability and education.
KIRK S .SANTOS
CONSTELLATION BRANDS
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & GLOBAL TALENT
Santos, based in New York, is currently Senior Vice President, Global Talent at Constellation Brands. He has held key roles at Pitney Bowes, PepsiCo, and IBM, with expertise in talent management, performance management, and recruiting. Kirk holds an M.S.H.R. from LIU Brooklyn and a B.B.A. from CUNY-Baruch College. His leadership spans employee engagement, talent development, and organizational growth, contributing to success across diverse industries.
MIGUEL S. BENET, M.D.
COMMUNITY HEALTH SYSTEMS
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CLINICAL OPERATIONS
Benet, EVP of Clinical Operations at Community Health Systems (CHS), oversees quality, data science, process improvement, informatics, pharmacy, clinical services, and patient safety. Previously, he was Division CMO at HCA, leading North Texas’ COVID-19 response. A former anesthesiologist, he trained at Harvard’s Brigham & Women’s Hospital. Dr. Benet holds an MD and MPH from the University of Michigan and a B.S. in Zoology from the University of Florida.
ABDON HERNANDEZ
CONSTELLATION BRANDS
VICE PRESIDENT & DEPUTY GENERAL COUNSEL
Hernandez is Constellation's vice president, deputy general counsel, reporting to
EDGAR GUILLAUMIN
CONSTELLATION BRANDS
VICE PRESIDENT OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS
Guillaumin holds a BA in Law, a Master’s in Corporate Law, a PhD in Strategic Planning from Anahuac University, and a postgraduate degree in Business Administration from the University of Calgary. With 20+ years of experience in public affairs and corporate communication, he has held roles at DHL, Kansas City Southern, and currently serves as VP of Public Affairs in Washington, D.C. He has driven foreign investment projects, chaired the Logistics Committee at AmCham, and serves on multiple advisory boards.
JOSEPH
SUAREZ
CONSTELLATION BRANDS
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & INVESTOR RELATION
Suarez is Senior Vice President, Investor Relations at Constellation Brands. Previously, he was Managing Director in Teneo's Strategy division and spent over 10 years in commercial, governance, and financial roles at BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto. A University of Chicago graduate, he earned dual bachelor's degrees in Economics and Mathematics
CLAUDINE ADAMO
COSTCO WHOLESALE
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & COO - MERCHANDISING
Adamo took over the current position earlier 2022, responsible for merchandising. Prior to this position she served as Senior Vice President of Nonfoods Merchandising. She has over 30 years experience at the company, where she began in 1992.
Daniel Baima, president, Mexico. Abdon is a member of the legal leadership team.
ALEJANDRO ALCALA
CRANE
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
Alcala joined Crane in 2013 as President of Crane Pumps & Systems. In February 2023, Alex was promoted to Executive Vice President, Crane and assumed segment leadership responsibility for all of Crane’s businesses including Aerospace and Electronics, Engineered Materials, Process Flow Technologies and the Regional President’s.
SANDRA LEAL
CVS HEALTH
VICE PRESIDENT & BOARD OF PHARMACY ADVOCACY & REGULATORY AFFAIRS
Leal previously served as Vice President, Pharmacy Practice Innovation and Advocacy at CVS as well.. Leal has had diverse experience as a pharmacist, medical director, public health clinician, and as a board member for various groups including the National Center for Farmworker Health. She is an advocate for humanism in healthcare.
JOSE CARLOS GUTIERREZ RAMOS
DANAHER
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF SCIENCE OFFICER
Gutierrez is responsible for setting Danaher’s science and technology strategy, supporting M&A and open innovation, and counseling Danaher’s operating companies on innovation opportunities. He leads the Danaher Innovation Centers and the Danaher Scientific Advisory Board. JC has diverse leadership experience across multiple biotech start-ups and pharmaceutical companies. Prior to Danaher, JC served as Global Head of Drug Discovery at AbbVie.
TOM GARCIA
DECKERS OUTDOOR
CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER
Garcia joined Deckers Brands in 2009. Tom served as Vice President, Associate General Counsel and Assistant Secretary and Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Compliance Officer for Deckers Brands. Garcia is currently Chief Administrative Officer at Deckers Brands.
RAY SILVA
DICK'S SPORTING GOODS
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & STORES
Silva is responsible for elevating the experiences at the retail stores for Dick's Sporting Goods. Throughout his time at Best Buy, Sliva held various roles in operations and human resources. Most recently, Sliva served as Best Buy's Chief People Officer. Before he served as Best Buy's president of retail, responsible for U.S. sales across all customer touchpoints.
AURA GREENBERG
CROWN CASTLE
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & DATA & DIGITAL
Greenberg joined Crown Castle in 2019, and leads the data, demand and digital strategies in support of Crown Castle’s digital future. Prior to Crown Castle, Aura led Data Analytics and Product Management at General Motors. Before that, she spent 14 years as a leader in Product Management, Technology Strategy and Corporate Development at Google and Qualcomm.
MARIO RIVERA
CVS HEALTH
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & SUPPLY CHAIN
Rivera brings more than two decades of experience to CVS Health, with extensive leadership roles driving business transformation globally including in the U.S., Latin America, Asia and Europe. Most recently he led the Engineering & Activation organization for Global Supply Chain and Logistics at Target Corp.
Milanes served as Senior Vice President, Purchasing, for Darden where he was responsible for Proteins, Beverages, and Food Commodities/Ingredients. He started Indirect Sourcing (non-food areas) in 2014, driving programs in categories such as Advertising, IT, and Restaurant Services. Prior to Darden, Doug served as Vice President, Global Procurement and Operations for New York-based Pfizer.
JENNIFER SAAVEDRA
DELL TECHNOLOGIES
CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER
Saavedra leads the company’s Global Human Resources and Facilities function and accelerates the performance and growth of the company through culture and people. Jenn joined Dell Technologies in 2005 and has held HR leadership roles in many disciplines. Jenn has a Doctoral degree in Industrial and Organizational Behavior from Tulane University.
VICTORIA PETRELLA
DOMINO'S PIZZA VICE PRESIDENT & ESG
Petrella is VP ESG leading Domino’s strategy for sustainable growth since 2023. In 2017, she was VP international marketing. Before, she was director of activation, media and national calendar. She joined Domino’s in 2010 as Hispanic marketing head. Earlier, she worked at Dieste, leading Hyundai, Taco Bell and Levi’s accounts, worked at Bravo Group and in her native Argentina. She holds an MBA - California State University, Fullerton and a BA advertising - Universidad del Salvador, Argentina.
KELLY GARCIA
DOMINO'S PIZZA
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER
Garcia has served as Domino’s executive vice president – chief technology officer since October 2020. He is responsible for providing technology vision and leadership, as well as developing and implementing strategic information technology initiatives that support and improve Domino’s business worldwide. Prior to his current role, Garcia served as senior vice president, chief technology officer – eCommerce and tech innovation.
JOANN CHAVEZ
DTE ENERGY
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF LEGAL OFFICER
Chávez has responsibility for the management and strategic direction of DTE’s office of the general counsel and advises DTE’s board of directors and senior management on legal and related matters. Chávez also has responsibility for the oversight of ethics and compliance, corporate security, corporate emergency management, and tax. Prior to joining DTE in 2007, Chávez served as an international tax partner for KPMG LLP.
EDDIE GARCIA
EBAY
CHIEF PRODUCT OFFICER
Garcia is eBay’s Chief Product Officer, leading product, UX, and technology teams to create impactful customer experiences. With 20+ years of product leadership, he rejoined eBay in 2022 after roles at Meta, Travelzoo, and Sam’s Club. At Meta, he led Facebook Commerce, and at Sam’s Club, he drove AI-powered innovation and e-commerce growth. Eddie holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and an MBA from Stanford. Based in San Jose, he enjoys the outdoors, pop culture, and cheering for the Lakers..
PATRICK CHAVEZ
EDWARD JONES
CHIEF PRIVACY OFFICER & ASSOCIATE GENERAL COUNSEL
Chavez he leads the firm's privacy efforts to protect information and data of the firm's associates and clients and, among other things, develops policies and procedures related to preparing for and responding to privacy and cyber incidents or attacks. He also leads the firm's Records and Information Management activities and provides legal guidance and advice to the firm's business areas.
RAMIRO CABRAL
ELANCO ANIMAL HEALTH
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & ELANCO INTERNATIONAL
Cabral serves as executive vice president, president, Elanco International. In this role, he leads Elanco’s international commercial operations. He was most recently responsible for Elanco’s business in Europe, Middle East and Africa. Previously, he served as Area Director for Western Europe. Ramiro brings a lifetime of global experience across diverse portfolios of animal health to his position.
FRANK GARRIDO
DOMINO'S PIZZA
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF RESTAURANT OFFICER
Garrido has served as Domino's executive vice president – chief restaurant officer since March 2023. In this role, heoversees franchise and company-owned operations in the U.S., domestic development, as well as the team responsible for global operations support. Garrido previously served as executive vice president – U.S. operations and support – a role he held since March 2021.
BARBARA PANDOS
DUPONT
CHIEF COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Pandos has a successful career of 19 years at DuPont, having held different positions with increasing responsibilities. Barbara graduated from Cornell University in 1986 and is currently based in Wilmington, United States.
HAZZEN MUNOZ
ECOLAB
VICE PRESIDENT HUMAN RESOURCES & TRAINING - GLOBAL PEST ELIMINATION
Munoz is a biingual Human Resources leader with strong business acumen, understanding of business drivers, and knowledge of strategies and tactics required to drive improved performance and sustainable change. He is responsible for setting strategy and leading actions to sustain strong business growth.
CHANO FERNANDEZ
EIGHTFOLD
CO-CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Fernandez is Co-Chief Executive Officer at Eightfold, based in London. He has previously served in leadership roles at Klaviyo, KKR, and Workday. Chano holds an MBA in Business Administration from IE (Instituto de Empresa) and a Bachelor's in Physics from Universidad de Salamanca. His expertise includes Leadership, IT Strategy, Solution Selling, Team Building, and E-Commerce. He also serves as a Non-Executive Director at Klaviyo and has been a Senior Advisor at KKR.
JOSÉ MANUEL CORREIA DE SIMAS
ELANCO ANIMAL HEALTH
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & U.S. FARM ANIMAL BUSINESS
Correia brings more than 20 years of leadership experience in commercial, marketing, R&D and regulatory roles.Prior to his current role, Jose served as president of Trouw Nutrition USA. Jose originally joined Elanco in 2000 as product manager for the company’s Rumensin product.
EDGARDO HERNANDEZ
ELI LILLY
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & PRESIDENT, MANUFACTURING OPERATIONS
DOMINIC J. ANDREANO
ENVISION HEALTHCARE
GENERAL COUNSEL
Hernandez has served as Executive Vice President of Eli Lilly and Company and President of Manufacturing Operations. Previously, Ed served as Senior Vice President of Global Parenteral Drug Product, Delivery Devices, and Regional Manufacturing from 2018 until 2021, where he was responsible for global parenteral manufacturing, emerging markets manufacturing, drug-product contract manufacturing, packaging and distribution operations.
TONY DURAN
EQT CORPORATION
CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER
Duran was named Chief Information Officer in July 2019. Prior to joining EQT, Tony ran PH6 Labs, a technology incubator he founded in 2018. Prior to that, he served as the Chief Information Officer at Rice Energy from January 2016 until November 2017.
VERONICA HEINO
ETSY INC
HEAD CORPORATE AFFAIRS & IMPACT COMMUNICATIONS
Heino leads Etsy’s global corporate affairs, working with leaders across the organization to drive brand trust and scale awareness about public policy and advocacy efforts as Etsy builds a platform that empowers millions of creative entrepreneurs around the world. Previously, she held positions at Visa Inc. and FleishmanHillard. She is part of Florida Int’l University’s Executive Leaderships Program Advisory Board and is involved with Latinas in Tech, supporting Latinas in the tech industry.
JOHN MOREIRA
EVERSOURCE
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICE AND TREASURER
Moreira has worked at Eversource and its predecessor companies for 22 years. He was promoted to the role of Senior Vice President - Finance and Regulatory and Treasurer in 2018. As Chief Financial Officer, he oversees Eversource Energy’s finance, accounting, investor relations, budgeting, insurance, risk management, supply chain, regulatory, real estate and facilities functions.
DAVID M. VELAZQUEZ
EXELON
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & UTILITIES OPERATIONS & TECHNOLOGY
Velazquez is responsible for overseeing and improving utility operations to ensure all Exelon’s utilities – Atlantic City Electric, BGE, ComEd, Delmarva Power, PECO and Pepco – are developing and implementing efficient operations and cost-effective systems to meet the current and future needs of Exelon and its customers. Prior to this role, Velazquez was president and CEO of Pepco Holdings, Inc. (PHI) the parent company of Pepco.
Andreano joined the Company in September 2001 and was appointed Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary in May 2012. Prior to his appointment, Andreano previously served as Deputy General Counsel for the Company from January 2009 until May 2012, as Associate General Counsel for the Company from January 2004 until December 2008, and prior thereto as Director, Business Development.
JOSE RAMON GONZALEZ
EQUITABLE HOLDINGS
CHIEF LEGAL OFFICER & CORPORATE SECRETARY
González leads the Law Department with responsibility for all legal, compliance, regulatory and governmental affairs. Previously, González was Executive Vice President & General Counsel for CNA Insurance, serving as principal counsel to the Chief Executive Officer, senior management team and board of directors. Prior to joining CNA, González was Chief Legal Officer and Corporate Secretary at QBE North America.
ELSA FERREIRA
EVERCORE
SENIOR MANAGING DIRECTOR & CHIEF INFORMATION SECURITY OFFICER
Ferreira leads the Firm’s information security strategy and is responsible for establishing and maintaining the Enterprise Information Security program and ensuring the availability and protection of Evercore’s information assets. Prior to being appointed CISO, Ferreira was a director in the internal audit and risk management department. Prior to joining Evercore, Ms. Ferreira was a manager at EisnerAmper.
DAVID DIAZ
EXELON
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & AUDIT SERVICES
Diaz is senior vice president of audit services, a member of the Exelon Executive Committee and reports into the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors. He is responsible for managing the execution of Exelon’s audit and controls strategies and activities. Prior to his current role, Diaz served as vice president of finance for Constellation.
LUIZ VASCONCELOS
FEDEX
PRESIDENT OF FEDEX LATIN AMERICA & CARIBBEAN (LAC) DIVISION
As President of FedEx Latin America and Caribbean (LAC) Division, Vasconcelos maintains overall responsibility for the region, which includes approximately 24,000 employees in more than 50 countries and territories. n 2018, Luiz was promoted to Vice President of Operations for FedEx Express in Brazil. Prior to joining, he worked at Rapidão Cometa.
Perez has extensive experience in compliance, legal, and leadership roles, including serving on the board of Florida Coastal School of Law and holding past positions with the State of Florida and The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida. He holds degrees from the University of Florida, George Washington University, and Jacksonville University.
ANTONIO FERNANDEZ
FIRSTENERGY
VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF ETHICS AND COMPLIANCE OFFICER
Fernández leads a dedicated team of compliance professionals with a focus on strengthening the company's ethics and compliance function. He reports to the senior vice president and chief legal officer as well as the Audit Committee of the Board. Fernández joined FirstEnergy in April 2021 after five years as chief compliance, NERC & privacy officer of Public Service Enterprise Group (PSEG).
VALENCIA AMENSON
FLUOR
GLOBAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR & TALENT ACQUISITION AND MOBILITY
Amenson is a human resources leader with 20+ years of progressive human resources experience across industries to include Healthcare, Oil & Gas, Maritime, and Utility. Reputation as a strategic, proactive, creative, and results-oriented business leader.
MARY ALDERETE
GAP
CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER
Aldrete is an experienced Chief Marketing Officer with a demonstrated history of working in the retail industry. Strong marketing professional skilled in Digital Strategy, Management, Business Development, Marketing Strategy, and Digital Marketing.
Cabrera is the Chief Communications Officer for General Mills where he oversees the entirety of communications for the company. Previously, he served as Senior Vice President of Corporate Relations for the McDonald's Corporation. In 2005, Jano lived in Baghdad, Iraq and through the National Democratic Institute worked daily with members of the Transition National Assembly on the Iraqi constitution and the historic elections in December.
RAMON R. MACHADO
FIRST AMERICAN FINANCIAL
VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF RISK OFFICER
Machado is the Chief Risk Officer at First American Financial (NYSE: FAF). In this role, he is part of First American's senior management team and is responsible for directing the company's enterprise risk management, compliance and insurance activities worldwide.
JUAN
CARRERA
FLOWSERVE CORPORATION
VICE PRESIDENT, OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE
Juan Carrera is Vice President of Operational Excellence at Flowserve, a role he assumed in February 2023. Previously, he was Senior Vice President of Global Operational Excellence at Dover, creating their operational excellence system and leading two segments. At Colfax, he oversaw 40 manufacturing sites globally as SVP of Operations. He also held senior leadership roles at Honeywell, ITT (now Xylem), and American Standard. Mr. Carrera has extensive experience leading multi-billion-dollar global operations.
ROBERT DELEON
FRANKLIN TEMPLETON
VICE PRESIDENT & HEAD OF FINANCE EFFECTIVENESS
Robert is a seasoned finance professional with proven leadership skills, operational finance experience and hands-on management. Over 20 years of continual career growth with a global asset management firm and three years of audit experience in a public accounting firm.
JAIME MONTEMAYOR
GENERAL MILLS
CHIEF DIGITAL & TECHNOLOGY OFFICER
Montemayor leads General Mills digital transformation and strategy efforts, uniting IT, Digital, Data and Analytics and Cybersecurity teams with business partners to drive differentiated business outcomes, advance tech-enabled innovation, and improve speed to market. A native of Monterrey, Mexico, Montemayor joined General Mills with over 20 years of global experience in the technology space, having held leadership positions at Oracle, Booz-Allen Hamilton and PepsiCo.
JOE NEGRON
GEO GROUP
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & GENERAL COUNSEL, CORPORATE SECRETARY
Negron joined GEO in December 2018 and became GEO’s General Counsel and Corporate Secretary effective January 1, 2019. Prior to joining GEO, Negron has had 30 years of experience in business law and complex corporate and commercial litigation. Negron has worked for several prestigious Florida law firms throughout his career, most recently in the litigation practice at Akerman LLP.
JOSE A. ROSARIO
GEO GROUP
VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER
Jose is an accomplished executive with over 25 years of experience in the IT, Information Security and consulting industries. The lead by example and hands on approach allows him to deliver results through the development of tenured teams that foster inclusion and innovation.
JORGE QUEZADA
GRANITE CONSTRUCTION
CHIEF DIVERSITY OFFICER
Jorge has over 25 years of experience in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) roles, previously leading initiatives at Northwestern Mutual, Kraft Foods, and Allstate Insurance. He is active in DEI committees for industry organizations and co-hosts the "Construction DEI Talks" podcast, focusing on DEI in the construction industry.
EDUARDO BRAVO
HARLEY-DAVIDSON
VICE PRESIDENT & MANAGING DIRECTOR, NORTH AMERICA
Bravo started at his current position in August 2021. Prior to his current position, he has held different positions with increasin leadership over the course of 14 years at Harley Davidson Financial Services. He first joined the division in 2007. Before worked different roles at GE for over 7 years.
LAURA FUENTES
HILTON
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER
Fuentes was appointed as Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer in 2020. She joined Hilton in 2013, and has led teams across Human Resources functions including Recruiting, Diversity & Inclusion, Learning & Leadership Development, Total Rewards, People Analytics & Strategy and HR Consulting. Prior to joining Hilton, Laura spent 6 years at Capital One Financial in various roles.
CARLOS HERNANDEZ
HILTON GRAND VACATIONS
SVP & CHIEF ACCOUNTING OFFICER
Hernandez is the Senior Vice President and Chief Accounting Officer at Hilton Grand Vacations. He has extensive global finance experience in hospitality, gaming, real estate, and consumer products. He has held leadership roles at Holistica Destinations, The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Atlantis Bahamas, and Kerzner International. Hernandez specializes in private equity, mergers, and post-merger integration.
PAMELA I. RAMIREZ
GLOBE LIFE
CORPORATE SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & ENTERPRISE TRANSFORMATION
Ramirez is focused in the areas in strategic planning, portfolio management, delivery management, R&D, business development, advanced analytics, innovation, market research, consumer insights, and competitive intelligence. She first joined Globe Life in 2018 when she served as Division Vice President - Enterprise Transformation.
RICARDO DE GENOVA
GRAPHIC PACKAGING HOLDING
SVP & CHIEF INNOVATION OFFICER
De Genova has extensive experience driving innovation and organizational change. He has delivered significant revenue through new product launches and developed capabilities in material science and rapid prototyping. Previously, he led strategic marketing and R&D innovation at Solenis, focusing on sustainability initiatives. With a strong background in global leadership, he excels in leveraging technology for competitive advantage.
LISA A. ALONSO
HEALTHPEAK PROPERTIES
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER
Alonso is the Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer. From February 2018 to December 2019, Alonso served as Senior Vice President – Human Resources. She previously served as Manager, Director and Vice President since joining Healthpeak in November 2014. Prior to that, Alonso served as Director of Human Resources/HR Business Partner at The Irvine Company’s Resort.
PABLO BRIZI
HILTON GRAND VACATIONS
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER
Brizi is responsible for leading teams of highly experienced human resources professionals who provide strategic business partnerships and consultative talent services across the global business. His oversight as CHRO also includes talent management, compensation, benefits, recruitment, succession planning, & learning and development. Brizi brings more than 25 years of human resources experience.
MONICA AGUIRRE BERTHELOT
HOLOGIC
VP & CHIEF OF STAFF
Aguirre is Vice President and Chief of Staff at Hologic, Inc., based in San Diego, California. She has been with Hologic for over 19 years, previously serving as Chief of Staff in the Office of the Chairman and CEO. Before Hologic, she was Assistant to the Chairman, President, and CEO at Gen-Probe Inc., now part of Hologic. Aguirre is bilingual in English and Spanish.
HECTOR PADILLA
HOME DEPOT
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT U.S. STORES AND OPERATIONS
Padilla is executive vice president of U.S. stores and operations, where he leads the company’s three U.S. operating divisions comprising more than 2,000 U.S. stores. Prior to his current role, he served as executive vice president for outside sales & service and has been growing his career with the company for more than 29 years.
JORGE CORNEJO
HOWMET AEROSPACE
CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER
Cornejo is VP, Chief Information Officer at Howmet Aerospace since October 2021. Jorge is an IT leader with more than 30 years of experience managing global teams and implementing leading edge technology for Fortune 100 companies in the automotive, aerospace, and defence industries.
MELISSA FLORES
IDEX
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER
In more than a decade with IDEX, Flores has made a significant impact elevating teams and talent across the company. Flores has held a variety of HR leadership roles across IDEX, including leading several enterprise-wide processes and initiatives. Prior to IDEX, she worked in talent acquisition as a Senior Recruiter, Team Leader and Client Relationship Manager.
SANDRA L. RIVERA
INTEL
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & GENERAL MANAGER, DATA CENTER AND AI GROUP & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, PROGRAMMABLE SOLUTIONS GROUP
Rivera leads Intel’s development of leadership data center products for a cloudbased world, including Intel® Xeon® and field programmable gate array (FPGA) products. She also drives the company’s overall artificial intelligence (AI) strategy and product roadmap. Rivera joined Intel in 2000 as a marketing director after the acquisition of Dialogic Corp
JOSE BARRA
HOME DEPOT
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & MERCHANDISING, DÉCOR
Barra oversees the company’s strategy to provide customers with innovative and exclusive products across flooring, paint, kitchen, bath, appliances, décor, storage and organization. Jose joined The Home Depot in 2017 and previously served as senior vice president of Merchandising Services. Jose brings more than 25 years of industry experience to the company.
CARMEN SAN SEGUNDO
San Segundo with over 15 years of experience in branding across various industries, including technology, pharmaceuticals, government, and FMCG. Passionate about crafting effective branding strategies, I have worked in both agency and corporate environments. Currently serving as Global Communications and Marketing Director at IBM, I lead strategies that enhance brand reputation, manage media relations, and focus on sustainability, ESG, and corporate social responsibility.
LARRY FERNANDES
INGREDION
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF COMMERCIAL AND SUSTAINABILITY OFFICER
Fernandes is senior vice president, chief commercial and sustainability officer. Fernandes manages the Company’s customer-experience initiative globally working to deliver an exceptional customer experience and drive continued growth. In this role, Fernandes manages the company’s global key account program and corporate marketing function. He joined Ingredion in 1990 as a technical sales representative in Canada.
DARIO GIL
Gil leads the technology roadmap and the technical community of IBM, directing innovation strategies in areas including hybrid cloud, AI, semiconductors, quantum computing, and exploratory science. He is also responsible for IBM's intellectual property strategy and business. Gil is a globally recognized leader of the quantum computing industry.
VIC VERMA
INTERNATIONAL FLAVORS & FRAGRANCES
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER
Verma is responsible for delivering on the Company’s global information technology strategy, the digital technology transformation program and overseeing infrastructure, data, application delivery and end user services across the enterprise. Before joining IFF, he served as Vice President of Global Infrastructure Operations at American Express where he was accountable for global infrastructure operations.
JOSE DAVILA J.CREW GROUP EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF PEOPLE OFFICER
Davila has over 25 years of talent management and brand-building experience, as well as a deep knowledge of the retail industry. He most recently served as Vice President of Human Resources for Levi Strauss & Co., where he oversaw North and South America. Previously, he spent more than ten years at Gap Inc., where he held a series of leadership positions.
ROBERTO FERRI
JABIL
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF SALES & MARKETING OFFICER
Ferri oversees and drives global sales, strategy and marketing, developing and executing the company’s value proposition and business models. Ferri joined Jabil in 2001 as vice president, sales. With over 30 years of business management experience in both large contract manufacturing and high-end flexible automation.
EMILIO PARDO
JACKSON
CHIEF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Pardo is a visionary brand strategist with a proven history of building businesses, developing outstanding strategic partnerships, and transforming brands. More than 25 years of marketing, communications, and business management experience working with multinational corporations, emerging companies, non-profits, and government.
DANIELLE
GOMES
JOHNSON & JOHNSON
CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER
Gomes is a dynamic and innovative executive with leadership skills and proven experience on building and managing highly responsive, business focused and growth oriented IT Organizations. Dabielle has over 20 years of Experience in multiple industries including Healthcare, Consumer Packaged Goods, e-Retailing and Finance.
SONIA GALINDO
KBR INC
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & GENERAL COUNSEL & CORPORATE SECRETARY
Galindo serves as Executive Vice President, General Counsel, and Corporate Secretary for KBR, Inc., a multinational delivering science, technology, and engineering solutions. She joined KBR from FLIR Systems, where she was Senior VP and General Counsel. Galindo has held senior roles at Rosetta Stone, the SEC, Blank Rome LLP, and others. She serves on advisory boards for the Millstein Center, Diversity Lab, and the Association of Corporate Counsel. She earned a J.D. from the University of Illinois and a B.A. from Hood College.
INGRID ESTRADA
KEYSIGHT
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF PEOPLE AND ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER & CHIEF OF STAFF
Estrada is senior vice president and chief people and administrative officer at Keysight Technologies, as well as chief of staff. She ensures effective and efficient internal company operations and directs Keysight’s global policies and programs which include employee development, compensation, benefits, staffing, workforce planning, HR systems, workplace strategies, global sourcing, and indirect procurement.
GUILLERMO GUERRA
JACKSON
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER & CHIEF INFORMATION
SECURITY OFFICER
Guerra has extensive experience and a history of success in building, turning around and strengthening information security programs. He is a global and strategic leader, who partners with business leaders to enable their digital strategies, create efficiencies, mitigate risks, secure their environment via the optimization of security ROI.
LAURIE VILLA
JETBLUE
CHIEF PEOPLE OFFICER
Villa is JetBlue’s chief people officer, responsible for engaging JetBlue crewmembers and fostering its unique culture, overseeing teams such as compensation and benefits; diversity, equity and inclusion; crew relations; values and labor relations; and recruiting and talent management.Prior to joining JetBlue in 2021, Laurie served as senior vice president and chief human resources officer of Spirit Airlines.
EVA ANDRES
JUNIPER
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER
Andres has responsibility for charting our global people strategy, fostering diversity, inclusion, and growth among our most important asset, our employees. She leads the human resources organization and the Juniper Networks Foundation Fund, which inspires the next generation of engineers and innovators.
RODRIGO LANCE
KELLANOVA
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & GLOBAL SUPPLY CHAIN
Lance is the Senior Vice President, Global Supply Chain. He is a member of Kellogg Company’s executive committee leadership team. Prior to his current role, Lance was Senior Vice President, KNA Supply Chain. He previously served as Vice President, Supply Chain Europe and Vice President, Supply Chain Latin America.
PAULA S. VAZ RAMOS
KIMBERLY-CLARK
CHIEF STRATEGY & TRANSFORMATION OFFICER
As Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer for Kimberly-Clark, Ramos has global responsibility for the company's enterprise strategy and the transformation initiatives designed to accelerate growth and value creation. Prior to joining Kimberly-Clark in 2021, Ramos was a partner at McKinsey & Company. Ramos led the firm's global consumer health practice and played pivotal roles in McKinsey's inclusion and diversity programs.
NELSON URDANETA
KIMBERLY-CLARK CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
As Chief Financial Officer for Kimberly-Clark, Urdaneta oversees Finance and Global Business Services, and is responsible for building a strong foundation of growth and long-term shareholder value to deliver the company’s purpose of Better Care for a Better World. Urdaneta joins Kimberly-Clark after nearly 17 years at Mondelēz International.
RAFAEL OLIVEIRA
KRAFT HEINZ
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & PRESIDENT, INTERNATIONAL MARKETS
Oliveira has served as Executive Vice President and President, International Markets for The Kraft Heinz Company since December 2021 and served as International Zone President from July 2019 to December 2021. Before joining the Company, Rafa spent more than 15 years in the financial industry, including holding positions at Goldman Sachs.
MARCOS ELOI LIMA
KRAFT HEINZ
CHIEF PROCUREMENT OFFICER
Eloi Lima is the Chief Procurement Officer for The Kraft Heinz Company. He joined Kraft Heinz in 2019 and is responsible for leading the Company’s procurement organization globally. Prior to joining Kraft Heinz, Eloi spent 20 years at Anheuser-Busch InBev (ABI) serving in various leadership roles within the company’s procurement and sustainability function.
FLAVIO TORRES
KRAFT HEINZ
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & GLOBAL CHIEF SUPPLY CHAIN OFFICER
Torres has been Executive Vice President and Global Chief Supply Chain Officer since December 2021. Previously, he served as Head of Global Operations from January 2020 to December 2021. He is responsible for the Company's global operations organization, including all areas of manufacturing, logistics, and quality.
GERARDO SCHEUFLER
LAMB WESTON HOLDINGS
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF SUPPLY CHAIN OFFICER
Scheufler is responsible for Lamb Weston’s global end-to-end supply chain. Gerardo has more than 25 years of Supply Chain experience, most recently as the Vice President of Global Operations at Mondelez International. Prior to his role at Mondelez, he spent more than 20 years at Procter & Gamble in a variety of roles of increasing responsibility, after starting his career in plant operations.
GONZALO URIBE
KIMBERLY-CLARK
PRESIDENT LATIN AMERICA
Gonzalez has held various leadership roles within the company, including Senior Vice President of RV Operations, Group Vice President of Operations, and Business Unit Director. Since joining in 2006, he has demonstrated his expertise through progressive responsibilities, including Plant Manager for an RV business unit acquired by the company.
ANDRE MACIEL
KRAFT HEINZ
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & GLOBAL CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Maciel is the Executive Vice President and Global Chief Financial Officer for The Kraft Heinz Company. He is responsible for the Company’s global accounting, treasury, tax, internal audit, budget and business planning, investor relations, mergers and acquisitions, information technology, global business services, and Global Center of Excellence functions.
MELISSA WERNECK
KRAFT HEINZ
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & GLOBAL CHIEF PEOPLE OFFICER
Werneck oversees the Company's global Human Resources function, which leads talent management and talent acquisition, leadership development, total rewards and recognition, engagement, learning and diversity, inclusion and belonging. She has served in this capacity since August 2016. Previously, she was Head of Global Human Resources, Performance and Information Technology from 2015 to 2016.
GABRIEL ARREAGA
KROGER
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & SUPPLY CHAIN
Arreaga joined Kroger in 2020 with deep supply chain leadership experience. Most recently, he served as senior vice president of supply chain for Mondelez International, Inc. He also served as global vice president of operations for Stanley Black and Decker and held numerous leadership roles at Unilever, including vice president of food and beverage operations.
RICK CORO
LANDSTAR SYSTEM, INC.
VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER
Coro is responsible for Landstar’s technology solutions, integrations and deployments that drive innovation throughout the company’s vast network of independent freight agents and owner-operator drivers. With his 30 years of technology management experience, he leads all aspects of Landstar’s IT department.
MARCELO
CARDOSO
LAUREATE EDUCATION
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Cardoso oversees operations in Mexico and Peru, as well as the leadership of Laureate’s Academic Quality organization. Prior to his current role, Marcelo held several senior positions within Laureate, including Chief Transformation Officer, Regional Vice President of Operations for Brazil, and Chief Executive Officer of Laureate Brazil.
GABRIEL BRUNO
LINCOLN ELECTRIC
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER AND TREASURER
Bruno joined Lincoln Electric in 1995 and has held numerous positions of increasing responsibility in Finance and Information Technology, before serving as Chief Information Officer in 2012. He was named Chief Human Resources Officer from 2016 to 2018 and most recently served as Executive Vice President, Finance before being promoted to Chief Financial Officer in April, 2020.
MELISSA DUEÑAS
LOCKHEED MARTIN
VICE PRESIDENT COMMUNICATIONS
Dueñas is an experienced communications professional with over 20 years in public company and government sectors. Specializing in media relations, crisis management, and internal communications, she excels at developing strategies to engage media, clients, and employees. Dueñas has held senior roles, including VP of Communications at Lockheed Martin and SVP at Leidos, overseeing internal communications, corporate marketing, media relations, and corporate responsibility. She also taught at Georgetown University.
JESUS "JAY" MALAVE
LOCKHEED MARTIN
CHIEF
FINANCIAL OFFICER
Malave is the chief financial officer (CFO) for the Lockheed Martin Corporation. In this role, Malave is responsible for all aspects of the corporation’s financial strategies, processes, and operations. Prior to joining Lockheed Martin, Malave served as senior vice president and CFO for L3Harris Technologies. In this role, he was responsible for oversight of all internal and external financial reporting, and the development of the corporation’s strategic plan.
CARMEN FERNANDEZ
MARSH & MCLENNAN
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF PEOPLE OFFICER
Fernandez is responsible for our people strategy and capabilities, to support our colleagues’ growth and our businesses’ priorities. Prior to her current role, Ms. Fernandez held positions within Marsh McLennan for 15 years, most recently Deputy CHRO, CHRO of Guy Carpenter, and HR leadership roles at Mercer.
JOHN TORRES
LENNOX INTERNATIONAL
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF LEGAL OFFICER & SECRETARY
Torres was appointed Executive Vice President, Chief Legal Officer and Secretary in December 2008. He had previously served as Senior Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary for Freescale Semiconductor, a semiconductor manufacturer that was originally part of Motorola. He joined Motorola’s legal department as Senior Counsel in 1996 and was appointed Vice President, General Counsel of the company’s semiconductor business in 2001.
PABLO MERCADO
LITHIUM AMERICAS CORP
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Mercado serves as Executive Vice president and Chief Financial Officer of Lithium Americas Corp. Pablo has over 23 years of experience in finance and corporate development in the energy industry. Prior to joining Lithium Americas, he served as Chief Financial Officer of EnLink Midstream, LLC, and prior to that, as Chief Financial Officer of Forum Energy Technologies, Inc.
DEAN ACOSTA
LOCKHEED MARTIN
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER
Acosta’s experience spans three decades in journalism and communications in the technology, energy and aerospace sectors. He manages brand and reputation for Lockheed Martin, including financial, crisis, and digital communications, media relations, marketing and social impact. He is on the board of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum and was named to PRWeek’s Power List for two consecutive years.
ALEXANDER PADILLA
LULULEMON
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF INFORMATION SECURITY OFFICER
Padilla has extensive experience as an Information security executive across industries in the US, Europe, South America, and Caribbean. He is a thought leader and frequent speaker on IT security best practices at industry conferences and events.
ALBERTO DE CARDENAS
MASTEC
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & GENERAL COUNSEL, CORPORATE
De Cardenas has been our Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary responsible for all of MasTec's corporate and operational legal matters and corporate secretary matters since November 2005. From March 2003 to November 2005, de Cardenas was Senior Vice President and General Counsel.
ROBERTO ISAIAS
MATTEL
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF SUPPLY CHAIN OFFICER
EILEEN CASSIDY RIVERA
MAXIMUS
VICE PRESIDENT & COMMUNICATIONS & PUBLIC RELATIONS
Isaias oversees all aspects of Mattel’s Supply Chain including Engineering, Logistics and Planning, Manufacturing, Procurement, and Safety and Quality. Under Roberto’s leadership, Mattel has made transformative improvements across the Company’s supply chain, reducing costs and time-to-market while also improving service to retailers. . Earlier in his career, Roberto spent 12 years at Procter & Gamble in various commercial and supply chain leadership roles.
TABATA L. GOMEZ
MCCORMICK & COMPANY
CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER
Gomez leads the Global Marketing organization and partners with Regional Commercial organizations and Global Functions to drive growth, build brand and flavor differentiation worldwide, help deliver against Innovation objectives, and accelerate global digital marketing capabilities. Ms. Gomez is a member of McCormick’s Global Operating Committee.
JESSE CORTEZ
MCKESSON
VICE PRESIDENT & DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION
Cortez has been dedicated to talent and diversity, fostering an inclusive environment for people and companies to succeed. Prior Cortez was the Global Inclusion leader for HP Enterprise. He has extensive corporate experience in leadership talent acquisition, large scale diversity initiatives and working with non-profit organizations for over 17 years.
GUSTAVO VALLE
MONDELEZ INTERNATIONAL
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & PRESIDENT, NORTH AMERICA
Valle is responsible for leading the company’s $9.7 billion business in the U.S. and Canada. ustavo joined Mondelēz International in early 2020, bringing more than three decades of leadership experience and expertise across Latin America, North America and Europe.
MARIA A. MARTINEZ
MURPHY OIL
VICE PRESIDENT & HUMAN RESOURCES & ADMINISTRATION
Martinez is responsible for all global human capital programs and activities for the organization. Prior to her current role, Maria led all of Murphy’s Human Resources programs for the Exploration and Production business. Martinez joined Murphy in 2010 as Manager, Human Resources with over 13 years of experience in human resources in the oil and gas industry.
Rivera creates and builds relationships with external stakeholders to shape the company’s awareness and reputation as a leading provider of government services to federal, state, and global governments. Before joining Maximus, Rivera was Director of Government Services at Cerner, now Oracle Cerner, a global Fortune 500 healthcare technology company.
SANDY RODRIGUEZ
MCDONALD'S
VICE PRESIDENT OF U.S. COMMUNICATIONS
Rodriguez is responsible for working with leaders across the organization to drive McDonald’s USA’s reputation and brand trust strategy. She serves as central point of contact for local and national community programs as the Brand continues to deepen its connections locally. Prior to joining McDonald’s, Sandy served as Vice President of Communications at Roche Diagnostics Corporation, leading the company’s integrated communications team.
JAVIER FELICIANO
MERITAGE HOMES
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF PEOPLE OFFICER
Feliciano is a senior Human Resources executive with over 20 years of experience at leading global organizations. He is currently EVP and Chief People Officer at Meritage Homes, where he oversees HR and internal communications for the fifth-largest public homebuilder in the U.S. Javier has previously held leadership roles at PepsiCo, Ford Motor Company, Apollo Education Group, and Valeo. He holds a Master's in HR and Labor Relations from Michigan State University and is actively involved in community service and mentorship.
MARIANO LOZANO
MONDELEZ INTERNATIONAL
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & PRESIDENT, LATIN AMERICA
Lozano is Executive Vice President & President Latin America for Mondelēz International, a global snacking leader evolving the role of snacking with 2021 net revenues of approximately $29 billion. In this role he is responsible for leading the company’s $3B across LA, including brands such as Oreo, Lacta, Club Social, Tang and Trident. He is also a member of Mondelēz International’s global management team.
JOSE BAYARDO
NATIONAL OILWELL VARCO
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Prior to joining NOV in 2015, Bayardo served as Senior Vice President, Resource and Business Development at Continental Resources, Inc. and spent nine years serving in various roles at Complete Production Services, Inc. Jose brings a wealth of financial experience to NOV having worked both in the oil and gas industry and in investment banking during his career.
FABIO SOUZA
NAVISTAR
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & SERVICE SOLUTIONS
Souza is executive vice president, service solutions of Navistar Inc. He is responsible for the Aftersales team, with specific focus on expanding Navistar’s digital strategy. Prior to his current role, Souza was the vice president and general manager of commercial operations at Scania in Brazil. Souza’s vast history in the commercial trucking industry is supported by his involvement in South Africa as a member of the board of Scania Financial Solutions.
PABLO PEREZ DE ROSSO
NETFLIX
VICE PRESIDENT & STRATEGY, PLANNING & ANALYSIS
Perez De Rosso leads the Company's Strategy, Planning & Analysis group across Content, Studio, Marketing, Communications, Product, Partnerships and Gaming. This group is responsible for helping set the strategic direction of the business and making key business decisions through data analytics, financial analysis, research, and planning/forecasting.
CARLOS AYALA
NISOURCE
VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF DIVERSITY, EQUITY & INCLUSION OFFICER
Ayala joined NiSource from Honeywell, where he served as Global Director, Inclusion & Diversity. He has extensive experience in diversity & inclusion, marketing, retail and consumer management in domestic and international markets in other Fortune 500 organizations.
DAVID CENTRELLA
ODP CORPORATION
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & ODP CORP & PRESIDENT ODP BUSINESS SOLUTIONS
Centrella was named Executive Vice President of The ODP Corporation and President of ODP Business Solutions in May 2022. Most recently David served as Sr. Vice President of FP&A where he also led several key companywide initiatives, including the Separation Management Office associated with the Company’s strategic review of its consumer business.
RITA RODRIGUEZ
OMNICOM GROUP
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT
Rodriguez is currently Executive Vice President at Omnicom Group where she leads the multi-agency integration and innovation for PepsiCo. With more than twenty-five years of marketing experience, Rita has a proven track record of transforming major brands and building businesses. Having worked on both sides of the business, agency and client, Rita has a unique mix of strategic expertis. Rita was previously CEO of Imagination.
FRANCISCO RAMOS
NETFLIX
VICEPRESIDENT OF LATIN AMERICAN CONTENT
Over the course of his career, Ramos has produced over 50 movies and television shows. In late 2000, Francisco left Aurum Producciones and started his career as an independent producer. From 2009 to 2017, he produced projects for Grupo Zeta’s audiovisual arm. It was during his tenure at Aurum that he started producing movies and television.
LUIS CANEPARI
NEWMONT
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER
Canepari leads Newmont’s Information Technology organization and is responsible for driving and overseeing enterprise-wide plans to further realize value from Newmont’s strategic business and technology investments. In his role, Luis has accountability for the digitalization, modernization and standardization of Newmont’s systems and applications.
EDUARDO RESTREPO
O-I GLASS
VICE PRESIDENT & MANUFACTURING OPERATIONS
Restrepo leads all manufacturing operations as well as our Total System Cost efforts across the enterprise. He is responsible for driving manufacturing performance which includes Environment Health and Safety, Quality, Productivity and Cost. Restrepo has extensive experience within the company. After joining in 2004, he has held various leadership positions in Colombia, Ecuador and the United States.
ANTHONY SCAGLIONE
ODP CORPORATION
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Scaglione was named Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer in July 2020. In this role, Scaglione is responsible for overseeing all financial aspects of the company, including financial planning and analysis, financial reporting and accounting, as well as leading investor relations, internal audit, tax, and treasury functions.
IGNACIO A. CORTINA
OSHKOSH CORPORATION
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF LEGAL OFFICER AND SECRETARY
Cortina is responsible for all legal, regulatory, government relations, ethics and compliance, environmental and sustainability matters for the company. He previously served as executive vice president, general counsel and secretary from 2015 to 2023. He has held various roles of increasing responsibility since joining Oshkosh Corporation in 2003. Prior to joining Oshkosh, he was in private practice in Washington, D.C.
HECTOR DE LA BARREDA
De La Barreda is a dynamic global business leader with extensive experience in brand-building and transformation at top Fortune 500 food and beverage companies. A trusted partner to boards and executives, known for strategic vision, resilience, and a results-driven approach to driving growth and profitability. Currently serving as President at Our Home and Board Member at Grupo AlEn.
JOSÉ MÉNDEZ-ANDINO
OWENS CORNING
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT OFFICER
Méndez-Andino, Ph.D., is Executive Vice President and Chief R&D Officer at Owens Corning, leading innovation across the company’s four major businesses. Appointed in 2021, he accelerates growth through product, process, and material science advancements. He joined Owens Corning in 2012, previously serving as VP of Science and Technology. Before, he spent 10 years at Procter & Gamble in various leadership roles. He holds a Ph.D. in synthetic organic chemistry and a master’s in applied anthropology.
PAOLA CORRADA
PAN-AMERICAN LIFE
VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF COMPLIANCE OFFICER
Corrada is an experienced Chief Compliance Officer with a demonstrated history of working in the insurance industry in a multinational, multicultural environment. She is responsible for the compliance and ethics program on a group-wide basis and serves as the Chair of the Corporate Compliance Committee.
IVAN GUERRA
PAR PACIFIC HOLDINGS
VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF ACCOUNTING OFFICER
Prior to joining Par Pacific, Guerra spent over 4 years at Ascend Performance Materials (Ascend), a global manufacturer based in Houston, serving as their Global Assistant Controller. Prior to joining Ascend, he was a Senior Manager in KPMG Houston’s Audit practice where his clients included public and private clients across various industries.
RICARDO “RICO” LORENZO
PARSONS
CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER
Lorenzo is responsible for the development and implementation of the innovation and technology strategy across the enterprise. He accomplishes this through internal Research & Development (R&D) to all forms of external technology leveraging including commercial technology partnerships, contract R&D, and university partnerships
JONATHAN LEON
OWENS & MINOR
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CORPORATE TREASURER
Leon was named Senior Vice President, Corporate Treasurer of Owens & Minor in May 2018. Prior to that, he served as Vice President, Treasurer, after joining Owens & Minor in January of 2017. Before joining Owens & Minor, Jon worked for the Brinks Company for nine years, beginning in 2008, where he served as Treasurer. He has extensive experience in treasury management. Jon earned his degree at the University of Connecticut.
MARTA REEVES
PAN-AMERICAN LIFE VICE PRESIDENT & CORPORATE MARKETING
Reeves, in her role as Vice President – Corporate Marketing is responsible for maintaining and strengthening the company’s brand as part of a broader strategy to drive sustainable and profitable growth.
ROSALINA MIRANDA
PAN-AMERICAN LIFE
VICE PRESIDENT & REGIONAL HEALTH OPERATIONS
Miranda has an extensive career of over 13 years at Pan-American Life, where she has held different positions in Operations. Before joining the company, she wasVice President of Customer Service at BUPA Global Latin America.
SHAWN FLORES
PAR PACIFIC HOLDINGS
VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Flores has served as Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer since January 2023. He joined Par Pacific in July 2014, serving in a variety of financial leadership roles. Most recently, Flores served as Vice President of Finance since July 2021 where he was accountable for Par Pacific’s treasury, risk management, financial planning & strategy, and mergers & acquisitions functions.
HUGO E. GONZALEZ
PATRICK INDUSTRIES
EVP & CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Gonzalez has held various leadership roles within the company, including Senior Vice President of RV Operations, Group Vice President of Operations, and Business Unit Director. Since joining in 2006, he has demonstrated his expertise through progressive responsibilities, including Plant Manager for an RV business unit acquired by the company.
EFRAIN RIVERA
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Rivera has been the senior VP and CFO of Paychex since joining the company in 2011. Rivera was formerly corporate VP and CFO at Bausch & Lomb, a global eye health company. Rivera holds a Doctor of Management degree from Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University. Additionally, he earned his MBA from the William E. Simon Graduate School of Business at the University of Rochester, a Juris Doctor degree from NYU, and a Bachelor of Science degree from Houghton College.
MAYRA HERNANDEZ BERGMAN
PEPCO HOLDINGS, INC. (SUBSIDIARY OF EXELON CORPORATION)
VICE PRESIDENT & MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS
Hernandez assumed in 2023 the role of Vice President of Marketing and Communications at Pepco Holdings, Inc., a subsidiary of Exelon, the nation's largest clean energy provider. In this role, Mayra is responsible for enhancing the company's reputation across three utilities. Before joining Exelon in 2020, Mayra was the head of enterprise communications for Lockheed Martin's rotary and mission systems business.
STEVE C DE BACA
PHILIPS
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF PATIENT SAFETY & QUALITY OFFICER, ROYAL PHILIPS
Prior to joining Philips, C de Baca served as the EVP of QRA for Cardinal Health, supporting the $185 bn enterprise and was a member of the Operating Committee. Steve brings more than 30 years of Quality and Regulatory Affairs (QRA) functional experience in the medical device and in vitro diagnostic device industry. Prior to joining Cardinal Health as the Senior Vice President of QRA in February 2021, Steve served as Vice President of QRA for Orthopedics and Americas for Zimmer Biomet.
JOSE ESPARZA
PINNACLE WEST CAPITAL
VICE PRESIDENT & REGULATORY, ARIZONA PUBLIC SERVICE COMPANY
Esparza is vice president, regulatory for Arizona Public Service (APS). Based in Phoenix, APS is Arizona’s largest electric company and serves nearly 1.3 million customers across the state. In his role, Esparza provides leadership to APS’s federal regulatory, state regulatory and rates & rate strategy teams.
GERARDO TORRES
PIONEER NATURAL RESOURCES
VICE PRESIDENT & PERMIAN COMPLETIONS
Torres serves as Vice President, Permian Completions, for Pioneer Natural Resources, a position he has held since September 2015. Torres’ team is responsible for designing and completing the company’s new horizontal wells with an emphasis on ensuring safe, environmentally sound wells that perform at maximum capital efficiency. Torres joined the company in 2005 as an Operations Engineer.
ISABEL CRUZ
PAYPAL HOLDINGS
EVP & CHIEF PEOPLE OFFICER
Cruz leads global HR and real estate strategies at PayPal. She previously held leadership roles at Walmart and General Electric, bringing extensive experience in talent development and integration. Cruz holds a Master’s in HR Management from Rutgers and a Bachelor’s in Communication from Fairfield University.
LIDIA FONSECA
PFIZER
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF DIGITAL AND TECHNOLOGY OFFICER
Fonseca leads all digital, data and technology products and solutions across the company, including digitizing drug discovery, clinical development, manufacturing, distribution and commercial. Lidia has 20+ years of experience in the healthcare industry. In her prior role, Lidia was the Senior Vice President and CIO at Quest Diagnostics.
MICHELLE FERRARA
PINNACLE WEST CAPITAL
VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER, ARIZONA PUBLIC SERVICE COMPANY
Ferrara is responsible for the company’s information technology (IT) infrastructure, including planning, architecture, development and operations, and for managing the digital challenges faced by a major electric utility. Prior to joining APS in 2021, Ferrara built a 20-plus year career with Exelon. She is deeply experienced in IT at innovative electric utilities, and in leading large operational support teams.
JOHN HERNANDEZ
PINNACLE WEST CAPITAL
VICE PRESIDENT & SITE SERVICES, PALO VERDE GENERATING STATION, ARIZONA PUBLIC SERVICE COMPANY
Hernandez is vice president of site services at Palo Verde Generating Station for Arizona Public Service Company (APS). Based in Phoenix, APS is Arizona’s largest energy company and serves more than 1.3 million homes and businesses across the state. He joined APS in 2014 and previously served as director, plant engineering, with an operational focus on strengthening reliability and fostering a culture of innovation.
ANA MARIA CHADWICK
PITNEY BOWES
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Chadwick is Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Pitney Bowes, responsible for the financial operations of the company on a global basis, which includes the treasury, audit, investor relations, and tax functions. Ana has more than 20 years of global experience as a finance and operational executive at GE Capital.
MANUEL CHINEA
POPULAR
EVP, POPULAR INC & CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER OF POPULAR BANK
Chinea has worked at Popular for 28 years and has held leading roles in the areas of marketing, sales, product management, consumer lending, insurance, investments, retail operations and business banking. Prior to his current role as Chief Operating Officer, Manuel served as Chief Marketing Officer and Head of Retail Banking Operations.
VINCENT MORALES
PPG INDUSTRIES
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICE
Morales is senior vice president and chief financial officer of PPG. He serves on the company’s executive and operating committees. Morales joined PPG in the corporate controller’s office, Pittsburgh headquarters, in 1985. With a long corporate road, Morales added responsibility as corporate treasurer in 2015. He was appointed vice president, finance, in June 2016, and he assumed his current role in March 2017.
FRANCISCO VELASCO
PRICESMART
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & GENERAL COUNSEL, CHIEF ETHICS & COMPLIANCE OFFICE, AND SECRETARY
Velasco has been Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of the Company since July 2016 and Chief Ethics & Compliance Officer since October 2016. From March 2009 to June 2016, Velasco served as Division Counsel Latin America for AbbVie Inc. Previously, he held in-house legal roles at Abbott Laboratories, Hanes Brands Inc. and Sara Lee Corporation.
VICTOR AGUILAR
PROCTER & GAMBLE
CHIEF RESEARCH & DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION OFFICER
Aguilar leads P&G’s Research & Development (R&D) organization, global innovation program and strategy. He also serves as liaison to the Board of Director’s Innovation and Technology Committee. Victor brings over three decades of P&G experience spanning three continents, across Fabric and Baby Care, Future Works and Corporate R&D.
DIEGO PAREDES
PRUDENTIAL FINANCIAL
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER & EMERGING MARKETS
Paredes is responsible for financial oversight for Prudential's operations in the region (Latin America, Emerging Asia, China and Africa). Includes financial planning and analysis functions, business development and M&A, management reporting, capital and strategic planning. Before joining Prudential, he held different positions at The Gibraltar Life Insurance.
JORGE GARCIA POPULAR CHIEF
FINANCIAL OFFICER
García joined Popular in 2005. Before being promoted to his current role as Corporate Comptroller and Chief Accounting Officer, García served as Senior Vice President and Director of Finance and Accounting of Popular Bank, the Corporation’s banking subsidiary in the mainland United States.
LAURA SANTANA
PRICESMART
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
Santana has been Executive Vice President—Information Technology since March 2017. Santana has served in progressively responsible positions relating to the Company’s IT systems since joining the Company in 1995. Ms. Santana previously worked at The Price Company from 1987 to 1995 in operations and information technology. Ms. Santana is a graduate of the University of San Diego.
ALBERTO MORALES
PRICESMART
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & HUMAN RESOURCES
Morales has been Senior Vice President – Human Resources since August 2017. Prior to joining PriceSmart, Morales was Head of Human Resources for Latin America at Bacardi. Morales brings over 20 years of experience from multinational companies in North America, including Canada and Latin America; Asia Pacific; the Middle East; and Africa.
DIEGO SOUZA
PROG HOLDINGS, INC.
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF INFORMATION SECURITY OFFICER
Souza is a cybersecurity expert with 22+ years in developing global security programs. He specializes in mitigating internal and external threats, translating cyber risks into business risks for effective decision-making. Passionate about mentoring and promoting diversity in IT, Diego’s contributions make him a trusted leader in safeguarding assets and empowering professionals.
JUAN MANUEL DE BEDOUT
RAYTHEON TECHNOLOGIES
SVP & CHIEF TECHNOLOGY OFFICER
Bedout leads Technology & Global Engineering at RTX, overseeing the company's technological strategy, engineering operations, and R&D investments. He also manages RTX’s research centers and guides product safety and cybersecurity initiatives. Previously, he held leadership roles at Collins Aerospace and General Electric. Bedout holds a Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering from Purdue University.
GONZALO MERINO
REGENERON PHARMACEUTICALS
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY & ASSOCIATE GENERAL COUNSEL
Merino, PhD, JD, joined Regeneron in 2013 and now serves as Senior Vice President and Chief Intellectual Property Counsel. He is responsible for protecting Regeneron’s Intellectual Property, including by developing and implementing a comprehensive global IP strategy. Prior to joining Regeneron, Merino was an Associate General Counsel at Columbia University and a patent attorney at Bryan Cave LLP in New York City.
FRANK LOPEZ
RYDER SYSTEM
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER
Lopez is is responsible for leading Ryder’s Human Resources organization, which includes talent management, recruiting, compensation and benefits, employee engagement, HR operations, and labor relations. Previously, Lopez was senior vice president of global HR operations, responsible for leading Ryder’s field Human Resources for the company’s three business units
JUAN
PEREZ
SALESFORCE.COM
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER
Perez is CIO and EVP of Salesforce. He is responsible for the global IT organization and leads the company’s internal digital transformation to support growth and scale. Perez’s team supports the integration of new acquisition companies across the Salesforce ecosystem to streamline technology integration processes, and drives global operational efficiencies.
FRANCISCO ARISTEGUIETA
SCOTIABANK GROUP HEAD OF INTERNATIONAL BANKING
Aristeguieta is a seasoned global banking leader with more than 30 years of international banking experience with major global financial services organizations in a wide range of markets including Latin America, North America, Asia, Europe and the Middle East. He has significant senior leadership experience leading country operations and overseeing business lines that stretch across Latin America and other international markets.
MELISSA BARRA
SLEEP NUMBER
EVP & CHIEF SALES AND SERVICES OFFICER
Barra oversees enterprise strategy, customer experience, sales, real estate, and relationship operations. With over a decade at Sleep Number, she has held key roles, including Chief Strategy Officer. Barra serves on the boards of Pentair and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Minnesota and was named one of the 50 Most Powerful Latinas in 2019.
CARLOS M. NUNEZ
RESMED
CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER
Prior to joining ResMed, Nunez was senior vice president of Medical Affairs at Becton, Dickinson and Company, leading the Office of Science, Medicine and Technology for its largest division. Before that, he was chief medical officer at CareFusion, where he built and led a global team that provided company-wide medical oversight. From 2000 to 2011, Carlos was chief physician executive at Picis, Inc.
JOHN J. DIEZ
RYDER SYSTEM
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Diez has served in various roles for Ryder since 2002, including as President of Dedicated Transportation Solutions, Senior Vice President of Ryder Dedicated, Senior Vice President of Asset Management, Senior Vice President of Global Field Finance, Vice President and Chief Financial Officer for the Fleet Management Solutions business segment, and Assistant Controller. Prior to joining Ryder, Diez spent eight years in the audit practice of KPMG LLP.
ALEXANDRE CONDE
SCANSOURCE
SEVP & CHIEF PEOPLE OFFICER
Conde focuses on advancing ScanSource’s talent and recruitment strategies, culture initiatives, and overall People success. He joined ScanSource in 2011 through the acquisition of CDC Brasil, later leading the acquisition of Network1. Alex previously held leadership roles in finance, planning, logistics, sales, and marketing at a POS peripheral manufacturer and a computer peripheral manufacturer.
RICARDO A. BARTRA
SCOTTS MIRACLE-GRO COMPANY
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF INFORMATION OFFICER
Bartra is a member of the Advisory Council for Digital Marketing at The George Washington University School of Business. He previously served as Senior VP and CIO at The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company. Ricardo holds a Master of Science in Information Systems Management from the Naval Postgraduate School and a B.S. in Engineering from the Air Force Academy in Peru. He brings expertise in IT strategy, business intelligence, ITIL, and CRM, with a proven track record in technology leadership.
RODOFO ESPINOSA
SOLVENTUM
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CORPORATE TREASURER
Espinoza is an experienced finance executive with over 20 years in Treasury, Risk Management, FP&A, and Accounting. Currently Senior VP, Corporate Treasurer at Solventum, previously VP and Assistant Treasurer at 3M and Bridgestone. Expertise in capital markets, FX/commodities hedging, strategic planning, and cash flow forecasting. Holds a B.S. in Economics, B.A. in Accounting, MBA from Duke University, and CTP certification. Skilled in driving growth, optimizing capital structures, and leading global teams.
SERGIO BAUTISTA
SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON
MANAGING DIRECTOR OF PEOPLE, CULTURE AND STRATEGY
CARINA LOVATO GILLENWATER
SOUTHWESTERN ENERGY
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER
Bautista has over 25 years of experience and successful track record of building and leading HR organizations from the ground up, bolstering employee retention, engagement, and performance. Strategic thinker and thought leader who influences and advises senior leadership as an HR business partner, fueling positive organizational development, growth, and a high-performance culture.
RICARDO MUNOZ
STANLEY BLACK & DECKER, INC
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF ENGINEERING AND TECHNOLOGY OFFICER
Munoz is a results-driven Global Technology Executive with a proven track record in leading complex technologies across multi-site global locations. He excels in driving technology integration into high-value products and services from inception to full launch. Munoz has demonstrated success in leading growth and transformation with vision, decisiveness, and quality implementation, alongside a passion for building talent and capabilities. Currently serving as SVP and Chief Engineering and Technology Officer at Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.
GUILLAUME M. ALVAREZ
STEELCASE
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, EMEA
Guillaume was sppointed to this role in November 2011, Guillaume is responsible for Steelcase’s sales activities in Europe, the Middle East and Africa.Previously, Guillaume was vice president of global client collaboration.
ALBERTO CASELLAS
SYNCHRONY FINANCIAL
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, HEALTH & WELLNESS
Casellas is responsible for driving growth for Synchrony’s Health & Wellness platform by providing comprehensive healthcare payments and financing solutions to a network of health and wellness providers, hospitals, and health systems. Beto was born in Puerto Rico and is the executive sponsor for Synchrony’s Hispanic Network.
VICTORIA
GUTIERREZ
SYSCO
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF MERCHANDISING OFFICER
Gutierrez is the SVP and Chief Merchandising Officer of Sysco, the world’s global foodservice leader. In this role, Victoria leads Sysco’s product growth strategy and works to enhance the customer experience through a full line of food and non-food products. Previously, she was a Partner with the Boston Consulting Group advising major retail and consumer goods clients globally, and also built beverage brands as a certified sommelier.
Gillenwater is a Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer of Southwestern Energy. Prior to joining SWN in 2018, she served as Global Vice President of Human Resources at Nabors Industries and Vice President of Human Resources at Smith International / Schlumberger Ltd. Her career also includes a variety of human resources experience, including in areas of compensation, talent development, employee relations, and organizational development.
MIGUEL ALVAREZ
STEEL DYNAMICS
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & METALS RECYCLING
Alvarez was named Senior Vice President of Metals Recycling in March 2022. Alvarez is responsible for OmniSource’s ferrous and nonferrous metals recycling operations, including marketing, trading, and logistics activities. Prior to that, he served as Senior Vice President, Southwest United States and Mexico.
LUIS E. ROJO
STEPAN
VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Rojo has held the position of Vice President and CFO at Stepan Company since 2018 and is responsible for managing the Global Finance Operations including Accounting, Treasury, Taxes, Financial Planning, Corporate Strategy, M&A, Information Technology, and Investor Relations.
ANTONIO VARAS
SYNOPSYS
CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER
Varas leads the Synopsys corporate strategic planning process, fostering an actionable understanding of the market dynamics across the technology value chains, identifying new business opportunities, and driving strategic initiatives to accelerate the company's profitable growth and long-term value creation. Antonio brings more than two decades of investment banking, management and strategy consulting.
RICK GOMEZ TARGET
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF FOOD AND BEVERAGE OFFICER
Gomez brings deep retail expertise and more than 20 years of experience managing multi-billion-dollar consumer packaged goods brands to Target’s food and beverage business. Rick joined Target in 2013 as senior vice president of brand and category marketing. Prior to Target, he served as vice president of brand marketing at MillerCoors.
KIERA FERNANDEZ
TARGET
EVP & CHIEF COMMUNITY IMPACT AND EQUITY OFFICER
Fernandez is the Executive Vice President and Chief Community Impact and Equity Officer at Target, where she leads stakeholder engagement, community initiatives, and Diversity, Equity & Inclusion efforts. She started her career at Target in 2001 and has held various HR leadership roles. Kiera serves on the boards of the Greater Twin Cities United Way and i4cp’s Chief Diversity Officer board, and is a member of the Executive Leadership Council. She is Afro-Latina and holds a Master’s in Human Resource Management from St. Mary’s University of Minnesota.
SERGIO FARACHE
TD SYNNEX
EVP & STRATEGY AND GLOBAL TECHNOLOGY BUSINESS
Farache is the Executive Vice President of Strategy and Global Technology Business at TD SYNNEX. With over 30 years of experience in the technology sector, he has expertise in cloud, security, data, and IoT. Previously, he held senior roles at Tech Data, focusing on strategy and next-generation technologies. An entrepreneur at heart, Sergio founded and sold two companies before entering the corporate world. He holds a degree in Systems Engineering from the Metropolitan University in Venezuela and has taught at both his alma mater and IESA.
CARLOS FERREIRO
TELEVISAUNIVISION, INC.
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Ferreiro has a critical role in integrating and designing a combined organization that can unlock enormous strategic and operational synergies of the combined company. Ferreiro has been an important contributor to the success of Televisa for the last 20 years, currently as Chief Financial Officer and, prior to that, as Chief Financial Officer of Sky, Cable and Iusacell for Televisa.
PILAR RAMOS
TELEVISAUNIVISION, INC.
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & GENERAL COUNSEL & CORPORATE SECRETARY
Ramos joins Univision from Mastercard, where she served in various leadership roles during her 18-year career with the company. She joined Mastercard as regional counsel for Latin American and the Caribbean and most recently was executive vice president & general counsel of North America. Prior to Mastercard, Ramos served as assistant general counsel at DIRECTV Latin America and as general counsel of DeRemate.com before that.
RAFAEL LIZARDI
TEXAS INSTRUMENTS
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Prior to this role, Lizardi served as the corporate controller. During his career at TI, he has held a number of leadership positions in finance and operations including controller for the company’s High Volume Analog and Logic business and the director of corporate financial planning. Lizardi joined Texas Instruments in 2001 as part of the company’s finance development program after serving five years as an officer in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
OTAVIO LAZARINI BARBOSA
TD SYNNEX
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & SYNNEX WESTCON-COMSTOR LATIN AMERICA
Lazarini is responsible for the development and execution of both business strategy and P&L functions across the region. During this tenure, he significantly drove high-margin growth and solidified the company’s foothold in the region. Coming from Brazilian distributor TelSist Informatica, Otavio helped position that company for acquisition.
CRIS GOMIDE
TELEFLEX INCORPORATED
VICE PRESIDENT & GLOBAL MARKETING
Gomide is an accomplished medical device executive with a proven track record of success in sales, marketing, and P&L management. He had led and motivated teams to achieve ambitious goals in both regional and global markets. Broad market experience in vascular access, interventional and cardiac care, regional anesthesia, airway management, respiratory, surgery, and urology.
JOSE TOMÁS
TELEVISAUNIVISION, INC.
CHIEF ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICER
Tomás oversees strategic support areas essential to Univision’s transformation, including Human Resources, Corporate Communications, Enterprise Technology Services, Facilities/Real Estate and Corporate Security. Most recently, Tomás served as co-founder and managing partner of BrandSparc, a global communications, employment branding and human resources consultancy firm.
GLORIA (MEOLA) LUGO
TETRA TECH
VICE PRESIDENT & CORPORATE BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT SUPPORT
Lugo has been with Tetra Tech for 25+ years and currently serves as the Vice President of Corporate Business Development. Tetra Tech is a leading provider of high-end consulting and engineering services for projects worldwide. With 21,000 associates working together, Tetra Tech provides clear solutions to complex water, environment, sustainable infrastructure, renewable energy, and international development problems.
BEATRIZ PEREZ
THE COCA-COLA COMPANY
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & GLOBAL CHIEF COMMUNICATIONS, SUSTAINABILITY & STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS OFFICER
Perez oversees global communications, sustainability, and strategic partnerships at The Coca-Cola Company. He manages external and internal communications, digital media strategy, brand PR, financial communications, and leadership communications. Additionally, he leads the strategic direction and performance of the company's retail, licensing, and attractions portfolio.
RICK GALVAN
THE GREENBRIER COMPANIES
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & GREENBRIER RAIL SERVICES
Galvan has 30 years in the railroad industry at three Class I railroads. Before joining Greenbrier, he was Chief Mechanical Officer at Canadian National Railway (CN), and General Manager of Mechanical International at Kansas City Southern (KCS). Before he Held multiple positions at Burlington Northern Santa Fe (BNSF).
HORACIO GUTIERREZ
THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY
SENIOR EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF LEGAL AND COMPLIANCE OFFICER
Gutierrez is Senior Executive VP, Chief Legal and Compliance Officer at The Walt Disney Company, overseeing global legal affairs, compliance, litigation, and more. Before joining Disney in 2022, he was Head of Global Affairs at Spotify, following roles as General Counsel at Microsoft, where he managed international legal operations over 17 years. He serves on the boards of the MPA and KIND, and advises Harvard Law. He holds an LL.M. from Harvard, a J.D. from Miami, and a law degree from Universidad Católica Andrés Bello.
ANILU VAZQUEZ-UBARRI
TPG
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER AND DIRECTOR
Vazquez-Ubarri is the Chief Operating Officer of TPG Inc. and has been on the company's board since its inception. She previously served as Chief Human Resources Officer and was part of the TPG Holdings Committee. She also serves on the boards of Upwork, Greenhouse Software, and several nonprofits, including Teach for America-Bay Area. Before joining TPG in 2018, she was Goldman Sachs' Global Head of Talent and Chief Diversity Officer. She holds a B.A. from Princeton University and a J.D. from Fordham University School of Law.
IVELISSE M. FERNANDEZ
TRIPLE-S MANAGEMENT
CHIEF GROWTH & CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE OFFICER
Fernandez previously served as the Chief Administrative Officer of MMM and SVP of Human Resources at Banco Popular. She has a BA from the University of Puerto Rico, a master’s degree in Labor and Human Resources Management from Ohio State University and an MBA from Indiana University.
JOSÉ
TRIPLE-S MANAGEMENT
NOVOA LOYOLA
CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER
Loyola previously served as Medical Director of the Cardiovascular Center of Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, as well as head of its cardiology department. He is certified by the Board of Cardiovascular Disease and the American Board of Internal Medicine. He studied medicine at the University of Puerto Rico and completed training in echocardiography at the Mayo Clinic
CARLOS A. GOMEZ
THE WALT DISNEY COMPANY
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & TREASURER
Gomez is responsible for management and oversight of the Company’s global treasury organization, which includes corporate finance, liquidity management, capital markets, financial risk management, pension and investments, enterprise consumer payments, and global cash management. Gómez is also responsible for managing the Company’s relationships with its banking partners and the credit rating agencies.
LUIS F. MACHADO
TOPBUILD
VICE PRESIDENT & GENERAL COUNSEL & SECRETARY
Machado joined TopBuild in August 2020 as General Counsel and Secretary. Most recently, Luis served as Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of CTS Corporation. Prior to joining CTS in 2015, Luis held positions as Senior Vice President, Legal, and Assistant Secretary at L Brands, Inc., as Associate General Counsel, Corporate and Assistant Secretary of Wm. Wrigley Jr. Company, as Senior Counsel with Diversey, Inc., and as an associate with the Altheimer & Gray law firm.
ILIA S. RODRIGUEZ
TRIPLE-S MANAGEMENT
CHIEF TALENT & ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES OFFICER
Rodriguez is Chief Talent and Administrative Services Officer Triple-S Management Corp. since 2021 and she served as Chief Human Resources Officer since 2018. She has extensive experience in organizational design, culture change and talent development, at Doral Financial, Popular, Merck and Ferring Pharmaceuticals.
CARLOS L. RODRÍGUEZ-RAMOS
TRIPLE-S MANAGEMENT
CHIEF LEGAL COUNSEL & COMPLIANCE OFFICER
Rodriguez-Ramos is Chief Legal Counsel & Compliance Officer since 2021. Also, Chief Legal Counsel and Corporate Secretary since January 2016. He joined Triple-S in 2013 as Associate General Counsel. Previously, he was Deputy Chief of Staff for the Governor of Puerto Rico.
JORGE CASADO
TUTOR PERINI
VICE PRESIDENT & INVESTOR RELATIONS & CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS
Casado is a seasoned finance and investor relations executive responsible for planning and executing Tutor Perini's comprehensive IR program, with a goal of promoting increased investor understanding and interest in the Company. Prior to his current position, Mr. Casado worked at Tetra Tech (NASDAQ: TTEK), where he served in various operational, financial, and project management positions of increasing responsibilities.
ARMANDO ESTRADA
TUTOR PERINI
VICE PRESIDENT OF OPERATIONS & DESERT MECHANICAL, INC.
SEBASTIEN D. REYES
U-HAUL HOLDING COMPANY
VICE PRESIDENT & HEAD OF COMMUNICATIONS AND INVESTOR RELATIONS
Estrada started working with Desert Mechanical Inc. in 2017. Before joining the company, he worked at Limbach as Operations Manager from 2010-2017. Prior, he held the position of Senior Project Manager at ACCO Engineered Systems from 2005-2010.
ELCIO BARCELOS
U. S. BANCORP
SENIOR EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER
Barcelos has served in this position since joining U.S. Bancorp in September 2020. Previously, he served as Senior Vice President and Chief People and Places Officer of the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae). Prior, Elcio served as Senior Vice President and Head of Human Resources for the Enterprise Services business of Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company.
ALISHA REAL
UNITED NATURAL FOODS
VICE PRESIDENT & ESG AND SOCIAL IMPACT
Real leads UNFI’s social and environmental impact programs. In 2018, she was appointed as the Executive Director of the UNFI Foundation. She has been involved with the Foundation in various capacities since 2013. In her time at UNFI, Alisha has evolved UNFI’s giving strategy so that the associates can be more actively involved.
LISA IGLESIAS
UNUM GROUP
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & GENERAL COUNSEL
Iglesias has been Executive Vice President and General Counsel of Unum Group since 2015. She leads the legal affairs of the company, overseeing areas such as transactions, corporate governance, regulatory matters, and litigation. With nearly 25 years of experience as general counsel for Fortune 500 companies, Lisa previously held roles at WellCare Health Plans, Nordstrom, and Spherion. She is a certified public accountant and holds degrees in accounting and law. Lisa serves on multiple boards and is an active community leader.
STEPHANIE ZAPATA MOORE
VISTRA ENERGY
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & GENERAL COUNSEL & CHIEF COMPLIANCE OFFICER
Previously, Moore served as vice president and general counsel of Luminant, a competitive power generation subsidiary of Vistra. Prior to joining Luminant in 2005, Moore was an associate at Gardere Wynne Sewell LLP (now Foley & Lardner LLP) in the corporate and securities practice group, where she focused on mergers and acquisitions and private securities offerings.
Reyes is a respected strategist, advisor and business leader with a breadth of experience working with public companies, nonprofit organizations and family businesses. He currently serves as Vice President for U-Haul Holding Company, one of America’s most recognizable brands. Sebastien is responsible for Corporate Communications, Investor Relations, Community Relations, Sustainability, Digital Media and External Affairs for over 23,000 retail locations serving millions of U-Haul customers annually. He has served on over a dozen nonprofit and industry boards.
ERIK LOPEZ
ULTA BEAUTY
CHIEF SUPPLY CHAIN OFFICER
Lopez oversees supply chain strategy and operations at Ulta Beauty. He joined the company in 2013, holding various leadership roles, including Senior Vice President of Supply Chain Planning and Operations. Prior to Ulta Beauty, he worked at Target Corporation in multiple supply chain roles.
ALFREDO BARQUIN
UNITED RENTALS
VICE PRESIDENT & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
Barquin joined United Rentals in 2022 to lead its business development function. He was previously with SWM International (now Mativ), a global manufacturer of engineered performance materials where he served as chief growth officer, general manager & CEO of a subsidiary and vice president of corporate development. Previously, he held progressive roles at GE Energy (now GE Vernova) and Eaton Corporation.
JULIA RENDON REINHART
VALERO ENERGY
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER
Rendon is responsible for Valero’s human resources operations companywide as well as well as global security, facilities, and administrative services. She joined Valero in December 2006 as Managing Counsel-Labor & Employment. Prior to joining Valero, Reinhart served as a Partner in the law firm of Bracewell & Giuliani LLP.
THOMAS PACHECO
VULCANFORMS INC.
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Pacheco, based in Franklin, MA, is CFO at VulcanForms Inc. Previously, he served as EVP and CFO at Acushnet Company and held leadership roles at Dell Technologies. A Providence College graduate, he brings expertise in financial advisory, management, IT, and project management.
RAFAEL CARRASCO
WASTE MANAGEMENT
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & OPERATIONS
As Senior Vice President, Operations, Carrasco has responsibility for all operations in the eastern part of North America, including oversight of collection, disposal, recycling and landfills. He is a member of the Company’s senior leadership team, led by Jim Fish, President and Chief Executive Officer. Carrasco formerly served as Area Vice President for WM of the Greater Mid Atlantic.
RUBEN BARRALES
WELLS FARGO
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & EXTERNAL ENGAGEMENT
Barrales is former White House Deputy Assistant to the President & Director of White House Intergovernmental Affairs, elected official, and chief executive officer for nonprofit and business advocacy organizations. A supporter of diversity, inclusion and public policy that expands economic opportunity for all.
FERNANDO CASADEVALL
WORLD KINECT CORPORATION
CHIEF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICER
Casadevall has served in the CHRO role since January 2019 and is responsible for all human resources (HR) responsibilities including compensation, benefits, recruitment, talent, HR services, and corporate security. Prior to WFS, he served as CHRO for Qatar Airways (QA), one of the largest airlines in the world with operations in 75+ countries and more than 50,000 employees.
JOSE MIGUEL TEJADA
WORLD KINECT CORPORATION
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF ACCOUNTING OFFICER
Tejeda is responsible for overseeing the Company’s global accounting, income tax, regulatory and financial reporting, market risk, and corporate finance functions. Prior to joining World Fuel Services, he served as the Head of Finance, Americas for Noble Group Limited. Before Noble Group, he worked for nine years at Constellation Energy, Inc. in various controller and financial planning and analysis roles.
ANA MENENDEZ
WATSCO
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER & TREASURER
Menendez has served as Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer since November 2003, as Treasurer since 1998, and as Assistant Secretary since 1999. She is a certified public accountant. Ana supervises all financial and accounting aspects of the Company, including taxes, risk management, benefits, treasury and cash management, the Company's system of internal control and other compliance activities.
ROBERTO H. CAMPOS
WHIRLPOOL
EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT & GLOBAL PRODUCT ORGANIZATION & STRATEGIC SOURCIN
Holthausen Campos joined Whirlpool Corporation in 2016 as Senior Vice President of the Global Product Organization – Product Platforms, where he led the team responsible for developing and executing home appliance product development plans. In 2017, Roberto was named leader of the overall Global Product Organization. In this role, Roberto is responsible for all product development activity driving cutting-edge consumer-focused design.
AMY QUINTANA AVALOS
WORLD KINECT CORPORATION
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CHIEF SUSTAINABILITY BUSINESS OFFICER & CORPORATE SECRETARY
Quintana leads World Kinect’s enterprise-wide decarbonization efforts and provides critical support for its commercial teams, helping grow the company’s energy transition and sustainability solutions for its customers. Leveraging the expertise from her previous role as Chief Corporate Counsel, Amy is expanding on her work with investors, customers, suppliers and other stakeholders to drive and embed the company’s sustainability efforts throughout the entire value chain.
Astorga is responsible for advancing global visibility, reputation and purpose-driven strategies for Zoetis, the world’s leading animal health company. A member of the executive team, she counsels company leaders and its Board on public policy, government affairs, sustainability, corporate brand management, and strategic communications. She joined Zoetis in 2020 as the first Head of Sustainability, launched long-range environmental and social impact goals, and established the Zoetis Foundation.
EMPOWERING COMMUNITIES THROUGH LEADERSHIP:
CONNIE PILOTO’S JOURNEY FROM JOURNALISM TO ENERGY
Courtesy of Oncor Carlos Cuevas
In a career spanning over two decades, Connie Piloto, Oncor Vice President of Market Relations, has seamlessly transitioned from a newsroom journalist to a pivotal figure in the energy sector. Her story is one of adaptability, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to service—values deeply rooted in her upbringing as the daughter of Cuban immigrants.
From Storyteller to Strategist
Piloto’s journey began in the fast-paced world of journalism. With roles at prestigious outlets such as The Miami Herald and The Dallas Morning News, she spent over a decade amplifying voices and shining a light on stories that mattered. “Journalism was fulfilling,” she recalls. “It gave me the opportunity to tell people’s stories and give back to the community.” However, after years of covering crime and disasters, she sought a new challenge, one that allowed her to transfer her storytelling skills into a different arena.
Her transition to public relations was a natural evolution. Piloto served in PR roles at UT Southwestern Medical Center and UT Dallas, managing communications in medical and higher education sectors. These experiences paved the way for her eventual move to Oncor, where she embraced the energy industry’s dynamic nature.
“I wasn’t necessarily aiming for corporate,” Piloto shares. “I was looking for where I could learn, contribute, and take on new challenges. Energy was a new frontier for me, and it turned out to be a perfect fit.”
Leadership Rooted in Respect
Piloto attributes much of her success to her upbringing in a hardworking immigrant family. Growing up in Miami as the daughter of parents who fled Cuba during Fidel Castro’s regime, she witnessed firsthand the importance of resilience, sacrifice, and respect. These values remain central to her leadership philosophy.
“Respect is huge—respect for others and for their stories,” Piloto explains. Her curiosity and ability to understand and honor the journeys of her team members set her apart as a leader. “Everyone has a story. As a leader, it’s important to recognize people’s potential, sometimes even before they see it in themselves.”
This empathetic approach defines her leadership style. Piloto believes in empowering her team by recognizing their strengths, providing mentorship, and fostering an environment where they can thrive.
Serving Others Through Energy
At Oncor, Piloto has discovered a sense of purpose in serving the more than 13 million Texans who rely on the company for their power needs. “Energy touches everything,” she emphasizes. “Hospitals, businesses, homes—they can’t function without it. Knowing that our work directly impacts lives is incredibly rewarding.”
While the energy sector comes with its challenges, such as navigating record growth across Texas, Piloto thrives on finding innovative solutions. “You need a broad knowledge base—engineering, finance, communications. It’s challenging, but it’s also what makes the work exciting.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
As a Latina in a leadership role, Piloto is passionate about paving the way for others. “Networking and staying curious are crucial,” she advises young professionals aspiring to careers in communications or leadership. She also emphasizes the importance of mentorship.
“I want to help elevate the next generation of Latinos and Latinas in the workforce,” she says. “It’s about creating opportunities and providing guidance so they can achieve their full potential.”
A Legacy of Compassion
Piloto’s colleagues describe her as a compassionate leader who balances a deep care for her team with a commitment to Oncor’s customers. As she steps into a new role within the organization, she remains focused on her core mission: serving others.
Connie Piloto’s journey is a testament to the power of adaptability, respect, and purpose-driven leadership. Throughout various roles and industries, her story inspires a vision of leadership that prioritizes people, values stories, and seeks to make a meaningful impact.
CONNIE PILOTO’S JOURNEY IS A TESTAMENT TO THE POWER OF ADAPTABILITY, RESPECT, AND PURPOSE-DRIVEN LEADERSHIP
AUTHENTIC LEADERSHIP
Silvana Montenegro of JPMorganChase wants to help Latinos succeed at all levels.
ONE OF MONTENEGRO’S GOALS IS TO SHOW HISPANICS THAT JPMORGANCHASE IS THE BANK FOR ALL BY HELPING TALENT MOBILITY AND AIDING THEM TO SUCCEED AT THEIR JOBS.
Joseph Treviño Courtesy of JPMorgan Chase F. Izquierdo
The head of a dedicated Diversity, Equity and Inclusion organization for Hispanics and Latinos at one of the world’s largest banking institutions started out at the firm by chance.
SILVANA MONTENEGRO wanted to join an international company to get professional experience, and 27 years ago answered a help wanted job ad in her local Sao Paulo, Brazil newspaper. The posting was for an internship with JPMorganChase.
“I started in financial services without really knowing where my career would take me and the appeal was mostly about international possibilities,” recalled Montenegro.
Now, Montenegro helms JPMorganChase’s Advancing Hispanics & Latinos, a first-time ever role for the firm, which she’s held since 2021.
The department’s goals go beyond supporting the growth and success of its Hispanic and Latino employees—it seeks to create a future for its customers, business owners and communities to thrive by promoting opportunities and breaking down economic barriers.
“It’s the best job in the world,” Montenegro says when thinking about how she was given her dream job at the launch of this new organization.
She is often quoted in Latino and Spanish-language media, advising Latinos about finances and other matters extolling fellow Hispanics to achieve their goals. But Montenegro is aware that there are hurdles to be tackled, such as a negative perception of the community.
“When I look at the Latino community, I see power and optimism, but when I watch the news that's not the story I always see,” she said. “I almost feel like it’s a call of duty to change the narrative surrounding this community and debunk stereotypes. If I think about the contributions of Latinos into this country, it’s $3.6 trillion in GDP. That’s not common knowledge across the board, but it’s the story we are hoping to bring to the forefront through Advancing Hispanics & Latinos.”
Origins
Montenegro hails from Brazil, where she grew up in a closeknit family with strong values in Sao Paulo. Her father was an entrepreneur and avid traveler who wanted his children to see the world, while her grandmother was a social activist.
“From a very young age, I was instilled with three core values: the importance of exploring the world, the need of never confining myself within my own bubble and to be curious,” Montenegro said. “My grandmother taught me that we are not here just for ourselves but also to serve others. Driven by a deep sense of curiosity, I aspired to have an international career, which guided me to study psychology at university. By understanding people’s stories, I learn and connect with the world. These stories inspire me to discover the most impactful ways to uplift others.”
After she joined JPMorganChase as an intern, she spent four years with the company in Brazil and then moved to New York City to support the firm’s Latin America region for 17 years. In NYC, she held roles including Head of Latin America Talent, Diversity & Inclusion, where she led the department and played a critical role in advising senior management on talent matters. Furthermore, she took charge of strategic efforts like setting up the JPMorganChase Colombia office, where she set up the HR department and led the recruiting and onboarding of over 30 new employees.
Prior to accepting her current role, Montenegro was the Head of Commercial Banking Talent, Diversity & Inclusion, where she managed and raised strategic efforts around developing and retaining talent, as well as promoting an inclusive culture across the organization.
She played a key role in building and developing Leadership Edge, JPMorganChase’s Leadership Center of Excellence. During her three years on the team, Montenegro designed several management and executive programs for senior managers, including leading programs for JPMorganChase’s Top 1,000 Executives.
Taking it to the next level
One of Montenegro’s goals is to show Hispanics that JPMorganChase is the bank for all by helping talent mobility and aiding them to succeed at their jobs. Another area is promoting financial health and education to students and communities to help build a stronger economic foundation.
“Sustainable change is about small acts of kindness and facilitating access to resources. It involves being in the community and partnering with trusted organizations so that residents can see we’re there for them.”
One of Montenegro’s favorite parts of her job is when she has a chance to mentor talent. She added that mentoring and sponsorship are paramount.
“Receiving guidance and mentorship is extremely important. Typically, you seek advice from people you feel comfortable with and trust—those who have your best interests at heart— and it is important that they do not all look like you,” she said.
The advice she gives Latinos who want to further their careers is to prepare for their jobs very seriously. When an opportunity comes along she encourages others to “follow their intuition.”
“Learning from your mistakes is essential. Equally important is seeking feedback. While constructive criticism can be uncomfortable, I believe you have two choices: listen and take action or allow others to maintain their perceptions of you without ever changing.”
Most importantly, Montenegro says: “Anything is possible as long as you persevere and learn from your mistakes.”
CEOS & PRESIDENTS 2024
This list highlights influential Latinos serving as Chief Executive Officer and/or President. They are shaping industries, driving innovation and inspiring the next generation of leaders.
JEFF ALVAREZ
1POINTFIVE SEQUESTRATION PRESIDENT & GENERAL MANAGER
Jeff Alvarez is President of 1PointFive Sequestration. Previously he served as Vice President of Investor Relations for Oxy. Before Oxy, he served as President and General Manager – Permian Resources, Texas Delaware Basin.
RICHARD GONZALEZ
ABBVIE
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Richard A. Gonzalez is Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of AbbVie, a company that employs approximately 50,000 people worldwide and markets medicines in more than 175 countries. Prior to AbbVie’s separation from Abbott in January 2013, Gonzalez was a 30-year Abbott veteran. He served as President and Chief Operating Officer of Abbott before briefly retiring in 2007. Gonzalez has been a long-standing leader in the greater Chicago community where he is a member of the Commercial Club of Chicago.
MIKE YBARRA
PRIZEPICKS
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Mike Ybarra is the CEO of PrizePicks, based in Atlanta, Georgia. Previously, he served as President of Blizzard Entertainment (2022–2024) and Executive Vice President & GM of Platform and Technology at Blizzard. Before Blizzard, he spent 22 years at Microsoft, holding leadership roles in engineering and general management. An experienced business and technical leader, he has a strong track record of driving scale growth and full P&L accountability.
DAVID DE LEON
ALLIANT ENERGY
PRESIDENT – ALLIANT ENERGY’S WISCONSIN ENERGY COMPANY AND SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT – OPERATIONS
De Leon has two leadership roles at Alliant Energy Corporation. He is President of Alliant Energy’s Wisconsin energy company and Senior Vice President of Operations. He joined the company in 1987 as a thermal performance engineer. Throughout his career, David has focused on improving, maintaining and constructing the company’s operating assets. Outside of work, David volunteers for various activities to help strengthen the communities Alliant Energy customers and employees live and work in.
JUAN LUCIANO
ARCHER DANIELS MIDLAND CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, PRESIDENT & CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD
Juan R. Luciano is chairman of the board of directors, president and chief executive officer of ADM. Luciano joined ADM in 2011 as executive vice president and chief operating officer. He was named president in February 2014, and in January 2015 became the ninth chief executive in ADM’s 112-year history. He became chairman of the board in January 2016. Before joining ADM, Luciano had a successful 25-year tenure at The Dow Chemical Company, where he last served as executive vice president and president of the Performance division.
ANTONIO CARRILLO
From April 2018 until November 2018, Carrillo served as the Senior Vice President and Group President of Construction, Energy, Marine, and Components of Trinity Industries, Inc. From 2012 to February 2018, Carrillo served as the Chief Executive Officer of Orbia Advance Corporation, a publicly-traded global specialty chemical company. Prior to joining Orbia, Carrillo spent 16 years at Trinity Industries, Inc. where he served as Senior Vice President and Group President of Trinity’s Energy Equipment Group and was responsible for Trinity’s Mexico operations.
JEFF D. MARTINEZ
DIVISION
Jeff has held the current position since 2020. In March 2018, Jeff was named vice president of customer service organization. Prior, Jeff served as vice president of operations in the Mid-Tex Division of Atmos Energy. In his 21 years with the Company, he has held positions in strategic management, engineering and operations. He has been active in a number of community organizations including Big Brothers –Big Sisters and the Fort Worth Diocesan School Advisory Council, as well as American Gas Association and Southern Gas Association committees.
ANDRÉS GLUSKI
Under Andrés’ leadership, AES became a world leader in innovating and adopting new technologies that enable our customers to meet their business objectives, including establishing AES as the world leader in energy storage. He led AES to establish its aggressive carbon reduction strategy in 2018 to show the company’s commitment to creating a sustainable climate future, making AES the first publicly-traded US energy company to issue a climate report that complies with recommendations from the Task Force on Climate Related Financial Disclosures.
JUDITH TALAVERA
AMERICAN ELECTRIC POWER PRESIDENT & CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER, AEP TEXAS
Judith E. Talavera is president and chief operating officer for AEP Texas, responsible for the company's operations in south and west Texas. At AEP Texas, we're improving our customers' experience, strengthening communities and energizing our employees to create a brighter future together. Previously, she was director of Regulatory Services for AEP Texas since November 2008. Talavera began her career with AEP in 2000 as manager of Governmental Affairs for AEP Texas. Before joining AEP, Talavera worked in a number of legislative positions
DOMINGO LASTRA
ARCHER DANIELS MIDLAND PRESIDENT, LATIN AMERICA
Domingo Lastra is president, Latin America, for ADM and a member of the company’s Executive Council. In that position, he has oversight of all of ADM’s business activities in that region. Since joining ADM in 1994, Lastra has held a range of merchandising, operations and logistics leadership roles. Prior to his current position, he was vice president, Integration and Strategy. Lastra holds a bachelor’s degree in agricultural engineering from the University of Belgrano in Argentina, and a master’s degree in agricultural economics from the University of Illinois.
GUILLERMO NOVO
ASHLAND GLOBAL HOLDINGS CHAIRMAN & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Novo joined Ashland’s Board of Directors in May 2019 and he became Chief Executive Officer of Ashland December 31, 2019. Previously he was the President and Chief Executive Officer of Versum Materials and a member of its Board of Directors. He joined Air Products in 2012 as Senior Vice President Electronics, Performance Materials, Strategy and Technology. Prior to Air Products, he was employed by Dow Chemical Company where he most recently served as group vice president, Dow Coating Materials.
CARLOS RODRIGUEZ
AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Appointed in 2011, Carlos serves as ADP’s sixth CEO since its 1949 founding. A recognized leader in the HCM industry, Carlos has led the global tech company through significant shifts in the world of work including the impacts of digital transformation. Under his leadership, the company has accelerated its transition from payroll processor to HCM innovator, leveraging its vast workforce data and technology investments to design a better workplace experience. He joined the Microsoft board as an independent director in November 2021.
ALEX QUEVEDO
AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING
PRESIDENT & HUMAN RESOURCES OUTSOURCING
Alex Quevedo is President of Human Resources Outsourcing (HRO). Alex and his team are focused on helping small and mid-sized businesses manage their most important resource, their people, while providing tools to attract and retain top talent, mitigate employment risk, gain operational efficiencies, and control cost.Prior to this role, Alex served as Senior Vice President of Sales for HRO where he drove growth and market leadership for ADP’s TotalSource and Comprehensive Services solutions.
JOSE ALMEIDA
BAXTER INTERNATIONAL CHAIRMAN, PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
José (Joe) E. Almeida is chairman, president and chief executive officer of Baxter International Inc. Almeida assumed his current responsibilities at Baxter in January 2016. He is now leading the company through a period of dynamic evolution and innovation, powered by Baxter's mission to save and sustain lives and vision to transform healthcare. Before joining Baxter, Almeida served as chairman, president and CEO of Covidien plc from 2012 to 2015, and as president and CEO from 2011 to 2012.
ERNIE GARCIA, III
CARVANA PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER AND CHAIRMAN
Ernie Garcia, III co-founded Carvana and has served as our President and Chief Executive Officer since our inception in 2012. Garcia is also Chairman of the Carvana Co. Board. Prior to founding Carvana, Garcia held various roles at the DriveTime Automotive Group, Inc. from January 2007 to January 2013. From November 2009 until January 2013, he served as a Vice President and Treasurer and Director of Quantitative Analytics. Garcia holds a B.S. in Management Science and Engineering from Stanford University.
VALMIR FERNANDES
CINEMARK HOLDINGS PRESIDENT OF INTERNATIONAL
Valmir Fernandes has served as our President of Cinemark International, L.L.C. since March 2007 and has been with Cinemark for more than 20 years. He has previously hed different position at Arthur D. Little from 1991 to 1995, and Dow Chemical from 1983 to 1990.
JUAN PABLO ZAMORANO
COLGATE-PALMOLIVE PRESIDENT, COLGATE-LATIN AMERICA
JP Zamorano became President, Latin America, in 2019, deploying his extensive experience in navigating changing macroeconomic conditions for continued growth. Previously he served as President, North America, where he strengthened the Colgate brand and pursued promising omnichannel marketing and advertising opportunities. JP joined Colgate Colombia in 1990 as a product manager and progressed through marketing and management roles of increasing responsibility. JP earned his Engineering degree from Pontificia Universidad Javeriana.
RAUL ANAYA
BANK
Raul A. Anaya is president of Business Banking, one of Bank of America’s eight lines of business, and is a member of the company’s executive management team. He leads a nationwide team that serves mid-sized U.S.-based companies with annual revenues between $5 million and $50 million, by delivering strategic financial advice and solutions to help companies grow, improve cash flow and invest for the future. In addition to his responsibilities as president of Business Banking, Anaya serves as president of Bank of America for Greater Los Angeles.
HORACIO D. ROZANSKI
BOOZ ALLEN HAMILTON HOLDING PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Since 2012, Horacio has led a strategic transformation of the firm, investing in innovation, advanced technology, and highly skilled talent, and reshaping its portfolio toward mission-critical, high-margin solutions. He joined Booz Allen in 1992 as a consultant to commercial clients, was elected vice president in 1999, and served as chief personnel officer, chief strategy and talent officer, and president and chief operating officer before becoming CEO. He also is a member of the firm’s Board of Directors.
DARREN REBELEZ
CASEY'S GENERAL STORES
PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Darren Rebelez is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Casey’s General Stores, Inc. in Ankeny, Iowa since 2019. He brings a wealth of experience as a senior executive in the convenience store and restaurant industries. Prior to joining Dine Brands, Darren was employed by 7-Eleven, Inc, as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer. Before 7-Eleven, Darren held numerous management roles within ExxonMobil, and before that, at Thornton Oil Corporation.
ERNESTO TORRES CANTU
CITIGROUP HEAD OF INTERNATIONAL
Prior to his current role, Ernesto served as CEO of Citibanamex from 2014 to 2019. He also served as CEO of Citibanamex Consumer Banking from 2012 to 2014 and in 2006 was appointed President of the Retail Bank in Mexico. Ernesto joined Citibanamex in 1989 as a Corporate Banker. Ernesto holds a degree in industrial engineering from the Instituto Tecnológico y de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey and holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Georgia State University in Atlanta. He serves as Chairman of the Board of Tecnológico de Monterrey.
ANTONIO VALENCIA
DANA PRESIDENT, POWER TECHNOLOGIES AND GLOBAL ELECTRIFICATION
Valencia serves as president of Power Technologies (PT) and Global Electrification, where he works closely with Dana’s other business units and engineering. Antonio also leads Dana’s electrification strategy as the only supplier of a fully integrated electrified system across all mobility markets. Antonio joined Dana in 2012 as director of operational excellence for the Asia Pacific region, based in Shanghai, China. Before coming to Dana, Antonio worked in a number of operational and business leadership positions.
RICK CARDENAS
DARDEN RESTAURANTS
PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Rick was unanimously elected in Dec 2021 to become the fourth President and Chief Executive Officer of Darden Restaurants effective May 30, 2022. A 34-year veteran of the company began his career with Darden as a busser. Rick has a bachelor’s degree in Finance & Accounting from the University of Central Florida, an MBA from The Amos Tuck School of Business Administration at Dartmouth College and is a Certified Public Accountant. He currently serves on the board of Tractor Supply Company.
GUILLERMO BRISEÑO
DONALDSON PRESIDENT, INDUSTRIAL SOLUTIONS
Guillermo Briseño is President, Industrial Solutions and joined the company in 2003. During his tenure, he has held positions of increasing responsibility across the organization, most recently Vice President, Latin America. He holds a bachelor’s degree in architecture and science from Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México and an MBA from Instituto Tecnológico de Estudios Superiores de Monterrey.
DEANNA RODRIGUEZ
ENTERGY
PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, ENTERGY NEW ORLEANS
Deanna oversees the company’s electric distribution system, safety, financial performance, customer service, resource planning, economic development, charitable contributions, employee development, and regulatory and governmental affairs. Rodriguez, a 28-year veteran of Entergy, previously served a vice president of regulatory and public affairs at Entergy Texas, Inc. Prior to that, she was vice president of regulatory affairs for Entergy New Orleans, where she worked closely with the New Orleans City Council to launch the first Energy Smart program.
PABLO VEGAS
ERCOT PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Pablo Vegas joined ERCOT in October 2022 as President and CEO. He has a long history of service in both the electric and gas industries. Prior to ERCOT, Mr. Vegas was Executive Vice President of NiSource, and Group President of NiSource Utilities. He served as a versatile executive at NiSource for six years. Prior to joining NiSource, Mr. Vegas held a variety of senior executive positions with American Electric Power. Before his career in the regulated utility industry, Mr. Vegas served in senior leadership positions with IBM, PricewaterhouseCoopers, and Andersen Consulting.
RUBEN MENDOZA
FOUNDATION BUILDING MATERIALS PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Mendoza is the founder, President and Chief Executive Officer at FBM and has 25 years of industry experience. Prior to founding our company in 2011, he served as the Chief Executive Officer of AMS. MS grew significantly under Mr. Mendoza’s leadership, particularly across the West Coast and Northern Mexico through greenfields and strategic acquisitions. Mendoza originally joined AMS in 1991 and assumed the Chief Executive Officer role in 2003 after several years as AMS’ Vice President and Sales Manager.
OCTAVIO MARQUEZ
DIEBOLD NIXDORF PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Octavio Marquez currently serves Diebold Nixdorf as president and chief executive officer. In this role, he is responsible for driving the organization's global strategies and performance to enable secure, software-defined connected commerce and related services across the financial and retail industries. Marquez has more than 25 years of leadership experience in the banking, technology and IT sectors. Most recently, he led Diebold Nixdorf’s Global Banking business.
PEDRO PIZARRO
EDISON INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Pedro J. Pizarro is president and chief executive officer of Edison International, the parent company of Southern California Edison, one of the nation’s largest electric utilities. Edison International is also the parent company of Edison Energy, a portfolio of competitive businesses providing commercial and industrial customers with energy management and procurement services. Pizarro is a member of Edison International’s board of directors and serves on a number of industry-related boards.
ELIECER "ELI" VIAMONTES
ENTERGY
CHAIRMAN, PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER ENTERGY TEXAS
Viamontes is responsible for the company’s safe and reliable service, financial performance, customer service, regulatory and public affairs, resource planning, economic development programs, and charitable contributions. Before assuming his current role in November 2021, Viamontes served as vice president, utility distribution operations for Entergy Corporation. Viamontes has 19 years of experience leading and working in customer-centric initiatives. Prior to joining Entergy, Viamontes served at Florida Power & Light Company.
JUAN C. BIANCHI
RIA FINANCIAL SERVICES PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Juan is responsible for the financial and operational performance of the segment in addition to driving the global strategy for the money transfer division. Prior to the acquisition, Juan served as the CEO of Ria and has spent his entire career at either Ria or AFEX Money Express, a money transfer company purchased by Ria’s founders. Juan has more than 15 years of experience in the money transfer industry. He began his career at AFEX in Chile in 1992 and in 1996, he moved to the U.S. to join AFEX USA’s operations.
ALEJANDRO REYNAL
FOUR SEASONS HOTELS
Alejandro joined the company in 2022 as President and CEO following an international career in global travel and hospitality, business services, and telecommunications industries. Previously, Alejandro was President and CEO of Apple Leisure Group (ALG), a luxury resort management and leisure travel group owned by Hyatt Hotels Corporation. Prior to ALG, Alejandro was CEO of Atento, a customer relationship management and business process outsourcing services company. Earlier in his career, Alejandro held strategic management positions at Telefonica and The Coca-Cola Company.
CARLOS ALBERINI GUESS CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
ANTONIO NERI
HEWLETT PACKARD ENTERPRISE
PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Alberini currently serves as member of the board of directors and Chief Executive Officer of Guess? Inc., since February 2019. Alberini previously served as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Lucky Brand. Alberini served as Co-Chief Executive Officer for RH (formerly Restoration Hardware), and he served as sole Chief Executive Officer from October 2012 through July 2013. Alberini was President and Chief Operating Officer of Guess from December 2000 to June 2010. From May 2006 to July 2006, Alberini served as Interim Chief Financial Officer of Guess.
ENRIQUE LORES
HP PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Enrique Lores is the President and CEO of HP Inc., a technology company that believes one thoughtful idea has the power to change the world. A Fortune 100 company with operations in more than 180 countries, its product and service portfolio of personal systems, printers, and 3D printing solutions helps bring these ideas to life. During his more than 30-year career at HP, Enrique has held senior leadership positions spanning HP’s Personal Systems, Print, Industrial, and Services businesses across country, region, and worldwide roles.
JOAQUIN DUATO
JOHNSON
& JOHNSON
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Joaquin Duato is the Chief Executive Officer of Johnson & Johnson and serves on its Board of Directors. As CEO of the world’s largest healthcare company, Joaquin leads a global workforce of 135,000 employees in developing and delivering transformational and innovative healthcare solutions in Pharmaceuticals, MedTech, and Consumer Health. Joaquin is leading Johnson & Johnson to harness data science and intelligent automation for insight generation so that teams work as a united front, with expertise and purpose, to solve the world’s toughest health challenges.
OSCAR AUGUSTO DEL CUETO CUEVAS
KANSAS CITY SOUTHERN PRESIDENT, CPKC DE MEXICO
Del Cueto Cuevas has served in this role since 2020. He joined KCSM predecessor TFM in 1997. He has nearly 30 years of railway industry experience, working in institutional relations, communication, operations, planning and logistics. Del Cueto holds a master’s degree in business administration and bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of Monterrey. He has also completed advanced studies, such as the Railroad Management Program certificate from the University of Michigan and certification programs at the Transportation Technology Center in Pueblo, Colo.
RUSS TORRES
KIMBERLY-CLARK GROUP PRESIDENT, NORTH AMERICA, MEMBER BOARD OF DIRECTORS
As group president of Kimberly-Clark's North American consumer business, Russ Torres is responsible for the company's Personal Care and Consumer Tissue businesses in the U.S. and. He previously served as president of the Kimberly-Clark Professional business, which provides a wide range of commercial products and services globally. Torres joined Kimberly-Clark in 2020 with more than 20 years of experience within the consumer product goods industry, spanning several key senior leadership roles.
Antonio Neri is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Hewlett Packard Enterprise – the global edge-to-cloud company – responsible for the development and delivery of enterprise technology solutions and services that help organizations accelerate outcomes by unlocking value from all of their data, everywhere. During his more than 25 years at the Hewlett-Packard Company (HP) and Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE), Antonio has held numerous leadership positions. Antonio led the strategy, development and introduction of many breakthrough innovations.
VICENTE REYNAL
INGERSOLL RAND
CHAIRMAN,
PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Vicente Reynal is Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ingersoll Rand. Prior to Ingersoll Rand, Vicente served as chief executive officer of Gardner Denver and was a member of its board of directors. In this role, he was responsible for driving overall growth and profitability leading to the IPO of Gardner Denver in May 2017 and subsequently in early 2020 acquiring the Ingersoll Rand Industrial Segment. Before joining Gardner Denver, Vicente spent 11 years at Danaher Corporation.
DANIEL PINTO
JPMORGAN CHASE & CO.
PRESIDENT AND COO, JPMORGAN CHASE, CEO, CORPORATE & INVESTMENT BANK, J.P. MORGAN
Daniel has spent his career at JPMorgan Chase and its predecessor companies. He began as a financial analyst and foreign exchange trader at Manufacturers Hanover in 1983 in Buenos Aires. In early 2006, Daniel was made global head of Emerging Markets. In 2009, he was made co-head of Global Fixed Income for the Investment Bank before becoming sole head of the group in 2012. In January 2018, he was named Co-President and Chief Operating Officer of JPMorgan Chase, to work closely with the CEO and the Board to identify and pursue critical firmwide opportunities.
NICOLAS AMAYA
KELLANOVA LATIN AMERICA
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & PRESIDENT NORTH AMERICA
Nicolas Amaya serves as Senior Vice President and President, Kellogg North America and is a member of Kellogg Company’s executive committee. Amaya joined Kellogg Company in 2001 as a Marketing Intern for Eggo in the United States. Since then, he has held a variety of leadership positions in the U.S. and Latin America across the cereal, frozen and snacks businesses.
GONZALO URIBE
KIMBERLY-CLARK PRESIDENT, LATIN AMERICAN CONSUMER BUSINESS
Gonzalo Uribe is the president of Kimberly-Clark Latin America since 2020. The executive studied at the ICESI University Business School in Cali, Colombia. He also holds a master’s degree in International Trade from the same academic center. He has over 25 years of experience in Marketing and General Management. At Kimberly-Clark he is responsible for integrating different business models under the same strategic direction, promoting profitable growth and the consolidation of K-C’s brands in Latin America.
CARLOS ABRAMS-RIVERA
KRAFT HEINZ CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER & BOARD MEMBER
CRISTINA PARDO
LENNAR PRESIDENT, LENNAR TITLE GROUP
Carlos Abrams-Rivera is the CEO and Board Member of The Kraft Heinz Company since December 2023. Previously, he served as President of Kraft Heinz and held leadership roles at Campbell Soup Company and Mondelēz International. Carlos began his career at Kraft Foods. He holds a B.S. in Economics from Carnegie Mellon and an MBA from the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business.
LAURA ESCOBAR
LENNAR PRESIDENT, LENNAR MORTGAGE INC
Laura is a 35-year industry veteran who has held leadership positions with both bankowned and independent mortgage companies, overseeing all aspects of mortgage banking. She joined Lennar Mortgage in 2002 as Branch Manager, was promoted to Senior Vice President managing the Eastern Region in 2004, and became Executive Vice President in 2016, overseeing operations and production of the Builder Division. Laura was named President of Lennar Mortgage in 2018. Laura has been nominated to serve as the 2023 Vice Chair of the Mortgage Banker Association (MBA).
GABRIEL TIRADOR
MERCURY GENERAL PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, DIRECTOR
Gabriel became the second person to hold the title of CEO in the company’s 58year history when Mercury Founder and Chairman of the Board, George Joseph. He personally selected Tirador to succeed him in 2006. He was appointed Mercury’s VP & CFO in 1998, President & COO in 2001 and CEO in 2007. Gabe has played a key role in growing Mercury’s revenues to over $3.4 billion per year and expanding operations. Prior, he held various financial positions including Senior Accountant for KPMG LLP and VP and Controller for the Automobile Club of Southern California.
MAURICIO GUTIERREZ
NRG ENERGY PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Mauricio Gutierrez is President and CEO of NRG Energy, America’s premier competitive power company. Mauricio joined NRG in 2004 and helped build it from a regional wholesale generation business into a national, Fortune 500 energy company. Previously he held the positions of Chief Operating Officer for five years and Executive Vice President of commercial operations overseeing all commodities trading. Mauricio has held several senior positions at energy merchant Dynegy and consulting firm DTP in Mexico City.
RAMON LAGUARTA
PEPSICO
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER AND CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Ramon became CEO in 2018. Before joining PepsiCo he worked at Chupa Chups, a candy company based in Spain known for its lollipops. His first role was in the company’s European business, and in 2014 became the CEO of the entire Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa (ESSA) sector. Laguarta was named president of PepsiCo in September 2017. Between 2015 and 2017, Ramon served as Chief Executive Officer of the sector formerly known as Europe Sub-Saharan Africa (ESSA).
Cristina Pardo is President of Lennar Title. Previously, she was Chief Financial Officer, Vice President of Lennar Financial Services, LLC, parent of Lennar Title. Cristina started her career in public accounting working for Deloitte and after 5 years left to work for one of her clients. In 2003, Cristina started with Lennar Financial Services as Controller. Cristina earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration in 1989 from Florida International University, with a major in accounting and has been a CPA in Florida since November 1989.
JOSE MAS
MASTEC
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Jose R. Mas, is Chief Executive Officer of MasTec, Inc., one of the largest and most diversified U.S. infrastructure services providers in the country. Mas was appointed CEO of MasTec in 2007 and during his tenure MasTec’s revenues have grown more than 800% and earnings and cash flow have grown at a much larger pace. Jose Mas has grown up in the business and over 20 years worked his way from the field to the executive suite. He serves on the U.S. Department of Commerce National Advisory Council on Minority Business Enterprises.
ARMANDO PIMENTEL
NEXTERA ENERGY PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, FLORIDA POWER & LIGHT COMPANY
Pimentel, Jr. has been the president and CEO of Florida Power & Light Company, a subsidiary of NextEra Energy, Inc. and an electric utility serving 5.8 million customer accounts, since February 2023. He previously served as president and chief executive officer of NextEra Energy Resources, a subsidiary of NextEra Energy, Inc., and leading provider of sustainable energy generation.
JOSE MINAYA
BNY MELLON INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT AND WEALTH MANAGEMENT. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
José Minaya is Global Head of BNY Investments and Wealth and a member of BNY’s Executive Committee. Previously CEO of Nuveen, he led the $1.2 trillion asset manager, overseeing diverse investment strategies. With over 30 years of experience, he’s held roles at AIG, Merrill Lynch, and JP Morgan. José holds a finance degree from Manhattan College and an MBA from Dartmouth. He serves on several boards, including Moody’s and the Smithsonian Institution, and chairs the Robert Toigo Foundation.
IGNACIO ALVAREZ
POPULAR PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Alvarez has been at the current position since 2017. Prior to this appointment he served as President and Chief Operating Officer. Previously, served as Executive Vice President and Chief Legal Officer. Before this, he was one of the six founding partners of the law firm Pietrantoni Mendez & Alvarez LLP. Recognized by Chambers Global as “one of the best lawyers in Puerto Rico,” Alvarez was an integral part of the firm’s success for 18 years. Some of his main practice areas are banking, corporate and commercial law; corporate and public finance law.
NICOLAS CATOGGIO
POST CONSUMER BRANDS
PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF POST CONSUMER BRANDS
Catoggio is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Post Consumer Brands. He joined the company in 2021.Nicolas served as Managing Director and Senior Partner in the Chicago office of The Boston Consulting Group (BCG) from 2007-2021. He also has vast experience working in international markets. Before joining BCG, Nicolas worked at Unilever for several years in business development, corporate strategy and finance. Nicolas earned his MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.
GINA AYALA CLAXTON
ROCKWELL AUTOMATION PRESIDENT, AMERICAS
Gina Ayala Claxton is president, Americas, at Rockwell Automation. Prior to joining Rockwell in 2022, Gina enjoyed a successful 20-year career at IBM in a variety of go-tomarket segments, industries, and offerings. She most recently served as the IBM general manager for the Consumer & Travel industries and was also a member of the IBM CEO’s transformation team. As a Latina in tech, Gina is passionate about inclusion, mentorship, and representation and serves to foster a culture where individuals believe they belong and can thrive.
LEONARDO MORENO
SOLARPACK CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Leo leverages his vision and insight about the future of the power industry to collaborate across countries, improving lives by shaping worldwide energy use. Over his 15 years at AES, Leo designed and led teams in charge of strategy, finance, commercial, investments, and mergers and acquisitions to deliver on our sustainability commitments. Today, he continues to inform our business on a holistic level as a board member of Dayton Power & Light and AES Distributed Energy in the US, AES Gener in Chile, and AES Tietê in Brazil.
JAVIER ANDRADE-MARIN
SPECTRUM BRANDS HOLDINGS
PRESIDENT, HOME & GARDEN
Javier Andrade-Marin was appointed President of the Home & Garden (H&G) Division of Spectrum Brands in November 2022. Mr. Andrade-Marin previously served as General Manager, Retail Brands US at Henkel North America from 2020 to 2022. Prior to that, he served as Vice President Marketing for Laundry and Home Care at Henkel North America between 2018 and 2020. Before Henkel, Mr. Andrade-Marin held a number of operational and marketing roles across Europe, Latin America and the United States at Reckitt Benckiser, Verizon Communications and The Walt Disney Company.
IGNACIO “NACHO” MEYER
TELEVISAUNIVISION PRESIDENT OF U.S. NETWORKS
Meyer started at the current position in September 2022. He has been at the company for more than 10 years, with different roles in increasing leadership. With more than 20 years of experience in the media and entertainment industry, Meyer has a proven track record in starting and operating growth initiatives, driving innovation, and business development. Most recently, he led the Music and Non-Scripted Entertainment division at TelevisaUnivision, driving the group’s global strategy.
ADAM MUÑOZ
PROPETRO HOLDING PRESIDENT & CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Adam Muñoz joined the Company in 2010 to initiate ProPetro’s Permian pressure pumping operation. Prior to joining ProPetro, Adam held sales and operations roles at Frac Tech Services and Weatherford International. Since joining ProPetro, Adam has served as the Director of Business Development and Technical Services where he was responsible for overseeing the growth of the hydraulic fracturing operations as well as managing the department’s day-to-day technical services. Adam has most recently served as the Vice President of Frac Service.
ROBERT SANCHEZ
RYDER SYSTEM
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Over the course of nearly 30 years at Ryder, MSanchez has held many senior executive leadership positions including president and chief operating officer (COO), chief financial officer (CFO), president of Fleet Management Solutions (FMS), chief information officer (CIO), SVP of Transportation Management within Supply Chain Solutions (SCS), and VP of Asset Management. He has been a member of the company’s Executive Leadership Team since 2003. He was named CEO in January 2013 and chairman of the board in May 2013.
DAVID MAURA
SPECTRUM BRANDS HOLDINGS
EXECUTIVE
CHAIRMAN & CHIEF EXECUTIVE
OFFICER
Maura was appointed Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in July 2018. Previously, he had served as the Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of SPB Legacy. Prior, Maura was a Managing Director and the Executive Vice President of Investments at HRG Group, Inc. and had been a member of HRG Group’s board of directors from May 2011 until December 2017. Maura previously served as a Vice President and Director of Investments of Harbinger Capital Partners LLC (“Harbinger Capital”) from 2006 until 2012.
MARIA PACHECO STORYFUL CHIEF
Maria Pacheco is CEO of Storyful, a news and intelligence agency. Prior to joining Storyful, Maria served as deputy head of News Corp’s corporate strategy team, spearheading global initiatives such as partnerships with Big Digital and across News Corp companies. Prior to her tenure at News Corp, Maria led international business development at Portland Communications, an Omnicom agency. She has also worked in competitive planning and strategic partnerships at Comcast and ViacomCBS, and started her career at Univision in Miami.
MARK HERNANDEZ
THE EASTERN COMPANY PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Hernandez, 56, has served as the Company’s President and Chief Executive Officer since January 2023 and as a director of the Company from June 2022. Previously, he led Navistar’s global manufacturing, supply chain, and logistics from 2018 to 2022, most recently as Executive Vice President from 2021 to 2022 Hernandez is Executive Vice President, Global Manufacturing and Supply Chain for Navistar, Inc.
ROBERTO GARCIA-RODRIGUEZ
TRIPLE-S MANAGEMENT
PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
President & Chief Executive Officer since 2016; Secretary since 2010; Vice President and General Counsel since 2008. Previously, Vice President and General Counsel at Puerto Rico Telephone. He holds a BA from Harvard University, an MBA from Stanford Graduate School of Business, and a JD from Stanford Law School. He completed the Advanced Management Program at Harvard.
JOSE DEL AMO
TRIPLE-S MANAGEMENT CORP.
PRESIDENT, TRIPLE-S PROPIEDAD
President of Triple-S Propiedad since March 2017. He has held positions of increasing responsibility since joining the company in 1998, including Surety Manager, Manager, Vice President and Senior Vice President of Underwriting and, most recently, Senior Vice President of Underwriting and Claims. Previously, he worked at Universal Insurance Company. He is a certified public accountant with a BBA in Accounting from the University of Puerto Rico.
RAFAEL O. SANTANA
WABTEC CORPORATION
PRESIDENT & CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
A native of Brazil, Santana has roughly 25 years of commercial, product management andexecutive leadership. Most recently, he served as President and CEO of GE Transportation, aunit of General Electric company. Prior to that role, he was president & CEO of GE in LatinAmerica; Santana also served as president and CEO of the Turbomachinery Solutions Businessof GE Oil & Gas, Prior to joining GE in 2000, Santana worked for six years at ExxonMobil andBritish American Tobacco. Santana has a degree in engineering from the Universidade Federalde Minas Gerais in Brazil.
GUSTAVO VIESCAS
WYNDHAM HOTELS PRESIDENT, LATIN AMERICA AND THE CARIBBEAN
Gustavo serves as President, Latin America and the Caribbean, and is responsible for the development of all Wyndham brands in the region while maximizing the performance of both franchised and managed hotels. A 25-year Wyndham veteran, he most recently served as Senior Vice President, Latin America and the Caribbean, overseeing Operations for the region. In that role, he was instrumental in launching two of Wyndham’s newest brands—Wyndham Alltra and Registry Collection Hotels.
ANDRÉS IRLANDO
ZAYO GROUP HOLDINGS PRESIDENT
Irlando oversees the Global Sales and Marketing organization, leading commercial operations and Company growth. Andrés has deep experience as both a senior executive and a commercial leader in the communications infrastructure industry. Prior to Zayo, Andrés spent 15 years at Verizon where he held a variety of leadership roles in several areas of the business, including sales, customer service, product development, operations and public policy. Andrés currently serves on the Board of Trustees for Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta.
ARTURO L. CARRIÓN CRESPO
TRIPLE-S MANAGEMENT CORP. PRESIDENT, TRIPLE-S VIDA
President of Triple-S Vida (formerly Great American Life Assurance Company of Puerto Rico, Inc.) since 1998. He served as a Vice President of Finance at GA Life since 1987. Previously, he worked at KPMG LLP from 1978 to 1987. A Certified Public Accountant, he has a BBA in Accounting from University of Puerto Rico.
FABIAN GARCIA
UNILEVER PRESIDENT, PERSONAL CARE
As President, Personal Care and a member of the Unilever Leadership Executive, Fabian is responsible for Unilever’s deodorant, skin cleansing and oral care categories globally, as well as the Elida Beauty and Unilever International Global Business Units. In this role, Fabian oversees Unilever’s category-leading, innovation-powered Personal Care brands including Dove, Rexona, LUX, Axe, Lifebuoy, Smile and Pepsodent. Fabian joined the company in 2020 as President of Unilever North America,
KLEBER R. SANTOS
WELLS FARGO CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER OF CONSUMER LENDING
Santos is CEO of Consumer Lending and a member of Wells Fargo’s Operating Committee. He is responsible for leading more than 35,000 employees focused on providing consumer lending products and services, including Home Loans, Auto Loans, Personal Lending, Credit Cards, Retail Services and Merchant Services. He was previously head of Diverse Segments, Representation & Inclusion at Wells Fargo and was responsible for leading efforts to make the company a place where diversity is reflected in every facet of the company’s operations, processes, and programs.
ADRIAN RODRIGUEZ
XCEL ENERGY PRESIDENT, XCEL ENERGY - NEW MEXICO AND TEXAS
Adrian Rodriguez is President of Xcel Energy’s New Mexico and Texas Southwestern Public Service Company (SPS), a wholly owned subsidiary of Xcel Energy Inc. Rodriguez joined Xcel Energy in 2022 from Puget Sound Energy where he served as senior vice president of regulatory and strategy, overseeing clean energy strategy, regulatory and governmental affairs, new product development, and energy efficiency. He previously served as interim Chief Executive Officer and General Counsel of El Paso Electric Company.
JAVIER J. RODRIGUEZ
DAVITA INC. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Rodriguez is an experienced leader committed to transforming care delivery for patients with kidney disease—from the earliest stages of the disease through transplantation. He is passionate about accelerating the digital transformation and delivering customized care to each patient while lowering costs for the health care system. In more than 20 years with DaVita, he has continued fostering a powerful sense of inclusivity and community among teammates and patients.
SUPPLIER DIVERSITY 2024
Supplier diversity is vital for fostering innovation, driving economic growth, and promoting equity in business. We explore the impact of diverse suppliers in the corporate landscape.
EMPOWERING HISPANIC ENTREPRENEURS:
HOW THE USHCC OPENS DOORS FOR SUPPLIER DIVERSITY AND ECONOMIC IMPACT
The heart of what we do at the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is ensuring Hispanic-owned businesses have the opportunities they deserve. Our mission to advance supplier diversity isn’t just a goal; it’s a commitment to creating real change for the Hispanic business community. This also means we understand Hispanic entrepreneurs' challenges in accessing capital, scaling their businesses, and making the necessary connections to succeed. That’s why we’ve built programs specifically designed to meet these needs.
The USHCC actively promotes the economic growth, development, and interests of more than five million Hispanic-owned businesses that contribute over $800 billion to the American economy every year. As America's largest Hispanic business advocacy group, we represent over 260 local chambers and business associations nationwide and partner with hundreds of major American corporations. Recognizing the more than $3.6 trillion GDP contribution of U.S. Latinos, a vital economic force, the USHCC is dedicated to supporting their interests nationwide.
Through the USHCC Educational Fund, for example, we support initiatives beyond leveling the playing field—they’re about opening doors and changing perceptions. Currently, with our Avanzado Suppliers with Blue Wave program, we aim to deepen the core capabilities of Hispanic entrepreneurs to meet competitive international standards and welcome new opportunities in procurement. This program equips Hispanic suppliers with Blue Wave’s pragmatic and systematic approaches to competitive global contracts.
Whether through community grants for our local chamber members, launching the Capital Readiness Program with the Minority Business Development Agency, or our digital series In Her Footsteps, brought to you by Bank of America, highlighting the journeys of Latina entrepreneurs, we are reminded that supplier diversity isn’t just about numbers but about celebrating the voices and perspectives that strengthen our economy. Through programs, workshops, and mentorship, we’re not just boosting business plans—we’re building a legacy of growth and empowerment.
RAMIRO A. CAVAZOS
PRESIDENT & CEO UNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Advocating for Hispanic-owned businesses is more than just dollars and cents; it’s about creating a fair, inclusive economy that represents all of us. When Hispanic companies grow, our entire economy benefits. We’re not just working for today’s entrepreneurs but for future generations who will see supplier diversity as the norm, not the exception.
By broadening the pool of suppliers, supplier diversity encourages competition, helps businesses grow, and supports a more equitable economy. Latinos are also starting businesses at a rate three times higher than the national average. Hispanic-owned businesses are growing ten times faster than White-owned businesses and are a driving force in local economies, generating 2.9 million jobs in the U.S. alone, reducing unemployment, and fostering economic activity through innovation and rapid business formation.
Together, we can build a more inclusive economy that uplifts everyone.
Follow more information, check out the USHCC’s new website at www.ushcc.com
TAPPING INTO HISPANIC ENTREPRENEURS TO COMPETE AND WIN BIG WITH USHCC’S AVANZANDO SUPPLIER PROGRAM
For companies looking to strengthen their supply chains and gain a competitive edge, supplier development initiatives have emerged as a powerful tool for corporations to foster opportunities for minority-owned businesses. Hispanic suppliers, for example, often face challenges in securing contracts with large corporations due to competition, lack of resources, or insufficient industry connections. The United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce has turned this challenge into an opportunity with pathways for certified Hispanic suppliers to tap into global markets and secure strategic contracts.
Through the USHCC’s Educational Fund, the Avanzado Suppliers with Blue Wave program is transforming the supply chain by empowering Hispanic entrepreneurs to meet the highest of procurement standards and earn competitive contracts. This, in turn, fuels business growth and workforce expansion, contributing over $800 billion to the American economy every year generated by Hispanic-owned businesses.
Empowering Hispanic entrepreneurs to secure competitive global contracts with Avanzando is embedded in the USHCC's mission to ensure one of the fastest growing entrepreneur cohorts in the country has the resources and tools to succeed in procurement. By expanding capital access, strengthening core skills and fostering connections, our program arms Hispanic-owned businesses with the strategies and real-time guidance to lead in today’s global economy. It also serves as a solution provider for corporations looking to stay competitive in today's global supply chain landscape.
The Avanzando program equips participants with critical skills and actionable strategies to secure corporate contracts. The curriculum offers turnkey and real-time
EVELYN BARAHONA
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, EDUCATIONAL FUND UNITED
STATES HISPANIC
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
solutions on seven essential compliance pillars that are based on the highest standards in the marketplace, including health, safety, security, environmental standards, cybersecurity, quality assurance, corporate policies, financial management, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), and technical capabilities.
Throughout the program, participants will complete assessments to identify capability gaps, work alongside experts to close them, and be part of a supportive peer community. This tuition-free program unlocks valuable resources, mentorship and access to USHCC corporate partners in less than five months.
Promoting supplier diversity, particularly by including Hispanic-owned businesses, fosters a more inclusive and globally competitive marketplace. As these businesses succeed, so do the corporations that embrace them. From local economies to a national scale, the U.S. economy grows to be more dynamic and representative, driving financial prosperity nationwide.
USHCC’s Avanzado Suppliers with Blue Wave is now accepting nominations for its next cohort. To nominate a Hispanic supplier, email Evelyn Barahona, Senior Vice President, USHCC Educational Fund, at ebarahona@ushcc.com
Soledad Tanner, STC Consulting, USHCC Avanzando with Blue Wave cohort 2 graduate, with Ramiro and Evelyn at USHCC Energy Summit in June 2024
Luz Lobos
Founder Synergy Design Group
Can you share the journey of starting and growing your business as a Latino-owned enterprise, and what role diversity played in your success?
Luz Lobos: After completing high school in El Salvador, I came to the United States to pursue my education and the American dream. My journey began at Cornell University School of Architecture, where I discovered my passion for design. However, as I delved deeper into architecture, I realized my true calling lay beyond site plans and building specifications and I shifted my focus to design and marketing.
Fresh out of college from LSU, I was tasked with designing a trade show exhibit for a hospital in Baton Rouge. It was there that I was introduced to the dynamic world of trade shows—a perfect fusion of brand design and architecture. My background in both architecture and graphic design made this feel like the perfect fit—I loved how I could blend creativity with strategy to bring a client’s vision to life in such an impactful way.
Captivated by the opportunity to bridge the gap between brand visibility investment and the power of face-to-face marketing, I founded Synergy Design Group, driven by the vision to help clients extend their brands into the trade show arena. Over time, we identified new opportunities and expanded into branded interiors, diversifying our expertise while staying true to our mission of creating impactful environments that elevate our clients’ brands.
Yes, I am a proud Latina and a business owner. For much of my journey, I didn’t see myself as different from any other small business owner—just someone relentlessly driven to succeed. It wasn’t until after years of hard work and perseverance that I realized our company had been labeled a Disadvantaged Business.
Were there moments of frustration when I struggled to build rapport with long-term clients? Absolutely. Did I sometimes wish I could hire someone who might “fit in” more seamlessly than I did? I won’t deny it crossed my mind. But did I let others’ biases or perceptions hold me back? Never.
Instead, I turned those challenges into fuel, proving that determination, resilience, and authenticity can break through barriers. My identity is not a disadvantage—it’s a strength, and it’s a testament to the value of diversity in business.
01 Synergy newly expanded team in Q2 2024 Company quarterly in Nashville, TN.
Synergy Team
What strategies have you implemented to overcome barriers in accessing supply chain opportunities, and how do you ensure your business remains competitive?
LL: I faced my share of challenges breaking into supply chain opportunities—limited access to established networks, tough competition, and the ever-changing landscape of higher client expectations. I learned that persistence, authenticity, and a commitment to continuous growth were our key to success. One of the pivotal steps I took was actively participating in associations and professional organizations. By contributing—whether through committee involvement, sharing insights, or supporting initiatives—I built meaningful relationships and established trust within the community. Consistently showing up, not just for events but also for collaborative efforts, demonstrated my dedication to being a reliable partner. Joining communities like the NMSDC (National Minority Supplier Development Council) and WBEC South (Women’s Business Enterprise Council South) provided access to invaluable resources I might have otherwise missed. Attending events such as the U.S. Hispanic Chamber Conference created opportunities to connect with larger companies focused on diverse supplier procurement initiatives.
Additionally, I prioritized learning. Whether it was through workshops, conferences, or simply listening to the experiences of others, I sought out every opportunity to enhance my understanding of leadership and procurement best practices. This knowledge, combined with a commitment to adapt and innovate, allowed me to position Synergy Design Group as a capable and forward-thinking partner. I am currently enrolled in the NMSDC Centers of Excellence Certificate Program and just started USHCC Avanzando Blue Wave program and I am grateful for the opportunity to become a better leader and resource partner. It is never too late to learn!
Most importantly, I embraced the power of authenticity. Every interaction, proposal, and pitch reflected our values and our genuine desire to provide exceptional value. Even when opportunities were
scarce, I kept introducing our services and I refused to give up. This perseverance has been instrumental in not only overcoming obstacles but in building a reputation as a dependable and resilient company. Through these efforts, I’ve learned that success isn’t just about accessing opportunities—it’s about creating them through relationships, growth, and unwavering commitment.
How important is supplier diversity to your business, and in what ways do you prioritize working with diverse suppliers within your own supply chain?
LL: Supplier diversity becomes more relevant to us with each passing year. In our industry, most suppliers are larger manufacturers of exhibit systems and flooring, leaving limited opportunities to work with diverse vendors who provide the materials we use. However, we actively partner with MBE (Minority Business Enterprise) and WBE (Women’s Business Enterprise) certified companies within the event, marketing, and promotional product sectors. It is incredibly rewarding to collaborate with and support diverse suppliers, strengthening both the MBE and WBE communities.
What advice would you give to other minority-owned businesses looking to enter or expand within larger corporate supply chains?
LL: For me, one of the most essential steps was evaluating whether we were truly ready to meet our clients’ expectations. Being self-aware and recognizing the need to deliver at a high professional standard is critical. Understand that the opportunity may not come in the first month or even the first year, but if you are committed to marketing your company to larger corporations and truly listening to their needs, the opportunity will eventually arise.
Be prepared to finance your growth. One of the biggest challenges we face is navigating the extended payment terms often stipulated in contracts with larger corporations. Some companies take over 90 days after project completion or Purchase Order issuance to make payments, which can place significant strain on your company’s cash flow.
Take time to assess your strengths, work on your weaknesses, and seek out teaming opportunities and collaborations with fellow minority businesses. Then, prove that you deserve a seat at the table— that you are worthy of their trust and capable of growing together.
Too often, we impose our own limitations and undervalue ourselves in negotiations just to secure the business. Instead, immerse yourself in your client’s perspective: Understand their pain points, and position yourself as a solution. This approach builds strong, trust-based relationships that benefit everyone.
How do you think companies and organizations can better support Latino-owned businesses in their supplier diversity programs?
LL: Ok, so this may be a long wish list, but you asked! We would be very grateful if companies with DEI programs could support Latino-owned businesses by:
• Including Latino-owned businesses in supplier diversity initiatives, ensuring their procurement processes are accessible and inclusive, therefore removing barriers that might disproportionately affect us.
• Fostering partnerships with Latino-owned businesses through mentorship, joint ventures, and collaborations.
• Offering access to capital and resources: This can be education, loans, grants, and other opportunities.
• Sponsoring and participating in events, trade shows, and conferences that showcase Latino-owned businesses and provide networking opportunities so they can connect.
• Offering development and training, like workshops on digital marketing, financial management, and business scaling to support growth.
• Engaging with the Latino community by supporting Hispanic chambers of commerce and business organizations.
• Highlighting and promoting Latino-owned businesses through social media, newsletters, and corporate communications.
(And for the companies already doing all in this list, a heartfelt thank you!)
How has obtaining certification as a minority-owned business (such as MBE certification) impacted your ability to access new opportunities or partnerships with larger companies?
LL: Becoming certified as an MBE has been a game-changer for my business. For the longest time, I resisted the idea of certification. As a small business owner, I often poured long hours into RFPs, only to feel like just a checkbox on a list—receiving no response or follow-up. This frustration made me hesitant to pursue certification until 2020. Since then, the impact has been remarkable. Certification has opened doors to learning, growth, and business opportunities I might never have
BRIEF DESCRIPTION ON THE BUSINESS:
• Synergy Design Group empowers clients with nationwide turnkey trade show exhibits, marketing activations, and branded interiors. We design, build, rent, and install custom solutions, including two-story exhibits, LED Video Walls, and even giant Rubik’s cubes. Our goal is to create engaging, impactful displays that maximize return on investment and elevate our clients’ presence.
• Beyond trade shows, we help non-profits and museums expand their reach and support companies in enhancing their workplace culture by delivering customized designs and seamless execution, ensuring success both on and off the trade show floor.
• Synergy Design Group is a certified Minority and Woman-Owned Business Enterprise (MBE and WBE), an International Design Award winner and ranked #1377 in the 2024 Inc 5000.
• Ranked as one of the fastest growing private companies in America.
https://synergy-dg.com/
02 International award winning design for Maritime Partners, International Workboat Show, New Orleans. Booth entrance is through a large scale LED video wall. Rear of the booth included a two-story exhibit with meeting room and lounge.
03 Synergy location near the New Orleans International Airport.
04 Synergy location near Nashville, TN
05 Exhibit design for CPG Sorting Solutions, Waste Expo, Las Vegas, NV
discovered otherwise. It’s not just about connecting with corporate sponsors and partners—it’s also about building relationships with fellow business owners, creating strategic partnerships, and collaborating in ways that amplify everyone’s success.
To anyone who hasn’t pursued certification, I highly recommend taking the leap. Make the effort to get certified and, most importantly, be present. Step back from working in the business to focus on working on it, allowing you to grow strategically and seize new opportunities.
In your experience, how do clients or partners perceive the value of working with certified minorityowned businesses, and how does this certification influence your business relationships?
LL: I hadn’t given much thought to how we are perceived because of our certification, but I hope corporations see us as legitimate, committed to our growth, and dedicated to supporting the development of our community.
In the past, I’ve felt that some corporations view minority businesses as if we’re seeking handouts without accountability. As a strong, certified business, we aim to dispel that misconception. We extend our hand in partnership, asking, "How can we help?" rather than expecting favors.
I believe our clients recognize and appreciate our dedication while holding us to their usual high standards—without exceptions. We strive to represent our community with professionalism and integrity, paving the way for other emerging Latino businesses to thrive.
NO BOUNDARIES FOR SUCCESS
ELIZABETH GOMEZ-JAZOWSKI, PRESIDENT & CEO, JZ
GLOBAL SOLUTIONS
Can you share the journey of starting and growing your business as a Latino-owned enterprise, and what role diversity played in your success?
EGJ: It's been quite a journey these past three and a half years building JZ Global. As a 100% Hispanic minority owner, I've faced my share of challenges, but also incredible opportunities. Let me share a bit about the road so far and how diversity has played a crucial role in our success:
The Early Days:
Starting any business is tough, and being a minority entrepreneur often adds another layer of complexity. Access to capital, navigating networks, and overcoming biases can be real hurdles. But my previous experiences leading sales teams, managing operations, and developing strategic partnerships gave me a solid foundation. I knew how to hustle, build relationships, and get things done.
I recognized the power of diversity. I intentionally sought out connections and partnerships with people from different backgrounds, cultures, and perspectives. This included:
• Mentorship: I connected with experienced entrepreneurs and business leaders from various minority communities who provided invaluable guidance and support.
• Strategic Alliances: We formed partnerships with minority-owned businesses in complementary industries, expanding our reach and creating mutually beneficial opportunities.
• Diverse Team: We prioritized building a diverse team that reflects the communities we serve. This has brought a richness of ideas, perspectives, and problem-solving approaches.
Diversity has been instrumental to our success in many ways:
• Innovation: Different perspectives spark creativity and lead to more innovative solutions. Our diverse team challenges assumptions, identifies opportunities others might miss, and develops products and services that resonate with a wider audience.
• Market Reach: Our diverse network has opened doors to new markets and customer segments. Understanding different cultures and needs allows us to tailor our offerings and connect with customers on a deeper level.
• Resilience: Facing challenges is inevitable in business. But a diverse team and network provide a broader range of support, resources, and perspectives to navigate obstacles and emerge stronger.
I'm incredibly proud of what we've accomplished at JZ Global. Our journey is a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and embracing diversity. As we continue to grow, we remain committed to fostering an inclusive culture where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their unique talents. Diversity drives innovation, fuels growth, and creates a stronger, more resilient company. And that's always worth celebrating.
What strategies have you implemented to overcome barriers in accessing supply chain opportunities, and how do you ensure your business remains competitive?
EGJ: As a Latina business owner, I've learned that overcoming supply chain barriers requires a multi-pronged approach.
• Cultivating strong relationships: We prioritize building long-term relationships and partner with minority-owned and women-owned businesses based on trust and mutual benefit. This not only diversi-
fies our supply chain but also opens doors to new innovations and opportunities.
• Technology Integration: We cast a wide net, leveraging our network to identify the best in cutting-edge technology platforms.
• Agility and resilience: We proactively identify and assess risks, developing mitigation strategies to minimize disruptions and ensure business continuity.
These strategies, coupled with our focus on innovation and customer-centricity, ensure JZ Global remains competitive. We believe that by embracing diversity and fostering strong partnerships, we can not only overcome obstacles but have and will thrive in the face of them.
How important is supplier diversity to your business, and in what ways do you prioritize working with diverse suppliers within your own supply chain?
EGJ: Supplier diversity is vital to JZ Global. It's a core business strategy. We prioritize working with diverse suppliers by actively seeking them out through attending diverse supplier conferences and engaging with minority business organizations.
At JZ Global we spend time building relationships and prioritizing open communication and mutual understanding.
We really get to know our diverse suppliers understanding their capabilities and fostering long-term partnerships.
By embracing our diverse suppliers, we gain access to innovation, strengthen our supply chain resilience, and better reflect the communities we serve. It's a win-win for everyone involved.
What advice would you give to other minority-owned businesses looking to enter or expand within larger corporate supply chains?
EGJ: My advice to other minority-owned businesses seeking to break into larger supply chains:
1) Be undeniably excellent, deliver top-notch quality and service. Exceed expectations!
2) Get Certified - look for certifications that validate your minority-owned status and open doors to opportunities.
3) Network - attend industry events, connect with corporations committed to supplier diversity, and build relationships with key decision-makers.
4) Highlight your unique value and showcase your strengths, whether it's specialized expertise, cultural understanding, or innovative solutions.
5) Mentorship – find a mentor that can provide support and guidance that may provide a different perspective and share different thought processes.
6) Utilize minority and business organizations that can guide and support your business strategy and goals such as the USHCC, WBENC SBA and APEX Accelerators.
7) Don't give up, be persistent. Rejection is part of the process. Keep refining your pitch, seeking opportunities, and demonstrating your value.
Believe in your business, stay focused, and never underestimate the power of your unique perspective.
How do you think companies and organizations can better support Latino-owned businesses in their supplier diversity programs?
EGJ: Speaking from my own experiences, companies can better support Latino-owned businesses by:
1) Providing mentorship and support for diverse suppliers on navigating corporate processes, accessing capital, and scaling operations.
2) Offer a Mentorship/Protege program where companies can learn and grow from their experiences of working together.
3) Provide a virtual training on how to do business with the said organization.
4) Invest time in understanding our businesses, our cultures, and our unique value propositions.
5) Go beyond simply stating good intentions. Actively participate in Latino business events, partner with Latino organizations, and use targeted outreach to find us.
True supplier diversity goes beyond checking boxes. It's about fostering genuine partnerships and empowering Latino-owned businesses to thrive.
How has obtaining certification as a minority-owned business (such as MBE certification) impacted your ability to access new opportunities or partnerships with larger companies?
EGJ: Obtaining minority-owned business certification has been a game-changer for JZ Global. It's like a key that unlocks doors to opportunities we might not have otherwise accessed through increased visibility, access to networks, and a competitive advantage.
The MBE certification has been instrumental in accelerating our growth and
expanding our partnerships. It's a powerful tool for any minority-owned business seeking to compete and thrive in today's market. But like any tool, its effectiveness depends on how you use it. You need to be proactive, leverage the opportunities it provides, and continue to build strong relationships. The certification opens the door, but it's up to you to walk through it.
In your experience, how do clients or partners perceive the value of working with certified minority-owned businesses, and how does this certification influence your business relationships?
EGJ: In my experience, clients and partners see immense value in working with certified minority-owned businesses like JZ Global. They recognize that we bring diverse perspectives. Our experiences and backgrounds allow us to offer unique insights and solutions. We often bring fresh ideas and approaches to the table, driving creativity and problem-solving. Partnering with us demonstrates their commitment to diversity and inclusion, enhancing their own brand reputation.
Looking back on my journey with JZ Global, I'm filled with gratitude for the many challenges overcome and the milestones achieved. I'm especially grateful for all the mentors who have taught me so much and pushed me through those challenges. Their guidance and support have been invaluable.
If there's one piece of advice I could offer aspiring Latino entrepreneurs, it would be this:
Believe
in your vision, embrace your heritage, and never stop pushing boundaries.
IN MY EXPERIENCE, CLIENTS AND PARTNERS SEE IMMENSE VALUE IN WORKING WITH CERTIFIED MINORITY-OWNED BUSINESSES LIKE JZ GLOBAL.
DIVERSITY FOR SUCCESS
ANUAR GARCIA, CEO, GREENTEK SOLUTIONS
Can you share the journey of starting and growing your business as a Latino-owned enterprise, and what role diversity played in your success?
AG: Starting and growing GreenTek Solutions as a Latino-owned business has been a deeply personal and transformative journey. Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, I moved to the U.S. as a teenager, where hard work, adaptability, and resilience became the foundation of my success. These values now shape GreenTek Solutions.
Diversity has been central to our growth. As a minority-owned business, I understand the challenges faced by underrepresented groups, which inspired me to build a culture where inclusivity is a guiding principle. With 98% of our team identifying as minorities, we leverage diverse perspectives to drive innovation, solve problems, and better serve our clients and communities. This internal commitment to diversity extends to the partnerships and strategies we pursue externally
At GreenTek Solutions, we believe that diversity drives innovation and inclusivity creates opportunity. We’re committed to leading by example and inspiring others to make meaningful change.
This commitment to diversity extends beyond our team and into our partnerships. Organizations like USHCC, LBAN and NMSDC have provided critical resources and opened doors, while advancing broader efforts to empower minority entrepreneurs. The commitment to 'democratizing opportunity' has been instrumental in GreenTek’s growth and lasting impact.
What strategies have you implemented to overcome barriers in accessing supply chain opportunities, and how do you ensure your business remains competitive?
AG: To overcome supply chain barriers, we
built a foundation of trust, innovation, and adaptability. Certifications like R2v3, ISO 14001, ISO 9001, and ISO 45001 validate our performance and commitment to data security, quality, environmental responsibility, and workplace safety building trust with large organizations.
Networking with groups like USHCC, LBAN and NMSDC has connected us to supplier diversity programs and decision-makers, positioning GreenTek as a reliable, minority-owned provider that aligns with ESG and Diversity Goals.
We also invest in our team and innovation to stay competitive. Empowering our employees and leveraging their talents ensures we deliver exceptional results. Our proprietary ERP system provides real-time reporting for transparency and accountability, enabling us to handle large volumes of IT assets while tailoring solutions to client needs. By exceeding industry standards and fostering strong relationships, we remain agile in a dynamic market.
How important is supplier diversity to your business, and in what ways do you prioritize working with diverse suppliers within your own supply chain?
AG: Supplier diversity is vital to GreenTek Solutions, aligning with our core values of inclusivity, sustainability, and creating opportunities for underrepresented communities. As a minority-owned business, we understand the challenges diverse suppliers face, which drives our commitment to partnering with minority-, women-, and veteran-owned businesses.
For example, partnering with a local minority-owned Access Control Security provider streamlined operations while creating economic opportunities in their community. This is just one example of how supplier diversity strengthens our business while creating economic op -
portunities. We embed supplier diversity goals into our procurement process and collaborate with organizations like the NMSDC, LBAN and USHCC to identify suppliers who share our dedication to equity and innovation. Supporting these businesses creates a ripple effect, amplifying their economic impact within their communities while fostering a more inclusive economy. For us, supplier diversity isn’t just a priority—it’s a strategy for driving meaningful change.
What advice would you give to other minority-owned businesses looking to enter or expand within larger corporate supply chains?
AG: For minority-owned businesses, success in corporate supply chains requires preparation, persistence, and building strong relationships. Start by focusing on credibility—third-party certifications validate your performance and demonstrate your commitment to excellence, helping you stand out.
Leverage supplier diversity programs from organizations like the NMSDC, LBAN and USHCC to gain access to opportunities, mentorship, and decision-makers. Tailor your value proposition to meet specific client needs, such as supporting ESG goals or improving efficiency,
Courtesy of GreenTek Solutions Carlos Cuevas
to position your business as a solution. Investing in your team and technology is critical for scaling. Empower your team and use tools like ERP systems for real-time reporting and transparency to enhance efficiency and build trust. Finally, stay persistent and adaptable—breaking into supply chains can take time, but your identity as a minority-owned business is a strength. Lean into your story, highlight your resilience, and let your values guide your approach. Corporations are increasingly looking for partners who bring innovation, diversity, and authenticity to the table —qualities that minority-owned businesses naturally embody.
How do you think companies and organizations can better support Latino-owned businesses in their supplier diversity programs?
AG: Companies and organizations can better support Latino-owned businesses in their supplier diversity programs by increasing outreach, simplifying processes, and promoting success stories. For instance, when a major client publicly recognized GreenTek’s contributions to their diversity goals, it not only opened doors for us but also inspired other businesses to engage.
Partnering with groups like the USHCC, LBAN and NMSDC connects businesses to opportunities, while simplifying application requirements ensures accessibility. Highlighting partnerships with Latino-owned businesses builds awareness and inspires broader engagement. Offering long-term partnerships, such as multi-year contracts, fosters trust and stability, allowing Latino-owned businesses to plan strategically and invest in their growth. These efforts create inclusive supply chains while empowering Latino-owned businesses to thrive.
How has obtaining certification as a minority-owned business (such as MBE certification) impacted your ability to access new opportunities or partnerships with larger companies?
AG: Certification as a minority-owned business has been transformative for GreenTek Solutions. It validates our commitment to diversity and excellence, opening doors to supplier diversity programs and partnerships with larger companies.
Beyond access, the certification has positioned us as a trusted partner aligned with our clients' ESG and diversity goals. It has facilitated valuable relationships with organizations like the NMSDC, LBAN
and USHCC, providing networking opportunities and increased visibility. These partnerships have expanded our reach and showcased the unique value minority-owned businesses bring.
Overall, the certification has been instrumental in driving growth and enabling us to make a meaningful impact.
In your experience, how do clients or partners perceive the value of working with certified minority-owned businesses, and how does this certification influence your business relationships?
AG: In my experience, clients and partners increasingly recognize the value of working with certified minority-owned businesses like GreenTek Solutions. The certification signals our commitment to excellence, accountability, and diversity, which aligns with their ESG, CSR, and supplier diversity goals.
This certification also enhances our business relationships by fostering trust and collaboration. Clients often see it as an opportunity to not only meet their diversity targets but also to support meaningful social and economic change. For many partners, working with a certified minority-owned business adds value beyond the transactional—it’s about creating long-term partnerships that drive positive impact for both businesses and communities. This shared commitment strengthens relationships and creates a foundation for mutual growth and success.
FOR MANY PARTNERS, WORKING WITH A CERTIFIED MINORITYOWNED BUSINESS ADDS VALUE BEYOND THE TRANSACTIONAL—IT’S ABOUT CREATING LONGTERM PARTNERSHIPS THAT DRIVE POSITIVE IMPACT FOR BOTH BUSINESSES AND COMMUNITIES.
LATINOS IN HEALTH
This section examines the crucial role Latinos play in the health sector. From addressing disparities to celebrating leaders in medicine and innovation, they are shaping the future of health in Latino communities.
DR. MAURICIO GONZÁLEZ:
Inspiring Healthier Lives Through Social Media
DR. MAURICIO González, one of the most influential Latino doctors on social media today, has built an impressive platform to inspire healthier lifestyles, particularly within Hispanic communities. But his journey to medicine wasn’t a straightforward one—it began in the chaos of his teenage years.
Based in Manhattan and known to millions as “Dr. Mau,” González grew up in Mexico, where as a teenager, his focus was more on sports and socializing than academics or a medical career.
“My path to medicine wasn’t linear. I was passionate about soccer and, like many teens, caught up in the fun and freedom of youth,” González shared.
That was then. Today, Dr. Mau is not only a practicing physician specializing in emergency medicine and obesity but also a trusted health advocate for millions. With a mission to empower individuals— especially Latinos—to take control of their health, González educates his audience on managing diabetes, losing weight, and giving up harmful habits like smoking.
With nearly 4 million followers across his social media platforms, González recently graced the cover of Newsweek en Español, hailed as “Dr. Mau, el influencer de la medicina.”
“Besides being an excellent doctor, you’re also our Latino Superman,” one TikTok follower, Sylvia, commented on his page.
Dr. Mau’s message is clear: prevention is essential. “As a Latino doctor, I see how the healthcare system often fails our community. We start taking care of ourselves too late,” he said. “That’s why I use every platform to communicate the importance of prevention.”
Joseph Treviño Courtesy of Mauricio Gonzalez F. Izquierdo
From Unhealthy Beginnings to a Healthy Mission
Born in 1981 in Campeche, Mexico, González’s early years were a stark contrast to the life he leads now. As a teen, he smoked, indulged in fast food, and partied frequently.
“I won’t deny it—I loved to party,” González recalled. “My days were a cycle of euphoria on the weekends and emptiness during the week, waiting for nightlife to return.”
After high school, a conversation with his father prompted him to enroll in college to study nutrition in Puebla. Despite this step, his lifestyle remained unchanged, leaving him feeling unfulfilled.
“The excitement of partying began to fade, and my life felt monotonous and meaningless,” he admitted. “It was during this period of introspection that I realized I needed to make a change. I decided to prioritize my health and personal growth.”
FOR DR. MAU, THE MISSION IS CLEAR: AMPLIFY THE VOICES OF LATINO PROFESSIONALS AND EMPOWER COMMUNITIES TO LIVE HEALTHIER, HAPPIER LIVES.
This turning point led González to pursue medicine, where he found his true calling. After completing medical school in Mexico, he worked at a hospital in Miami before moving to New York City, where he became an Internist and an ER physician.
A Voice for Health on Social Media
González’s career took a transformative turn when he began leveraging his communication skills, honed through years of giving free lectures in schools, churches, and other community spaces. In 2015, he started posting health content on Instagram, and his online influence quickly grew.
“When social media began taking off, I was already skilled at breaking down complex ideas into simple, actionable steps,” González said. “I applied those skills online, and things just took off.”
His posts tackle critical topics like diabetes prevention, quitting smoking, and effective weight management, delivering clear, relatable advice to his audience.
“Latinos often begin gaining weight in their 20s and don’t see a doctor until their 40s,” he explained. “That’s 20 years lost where we could intervene, build their confidence, and teach them how to make healthier choices. Social media can play a vital role in delaying or even preventing these outcomes.”
Leading Change for a Healthier Latino Community
Dr. Mau’s influence extends beyond social media. He has collaborated with the White House, the United Nations, he is a Unicef Ambassador, and collaborates with organizations like the American Heart Association to promote healthier lifestyles among Latinos.
“Representation matters,” González emphasized. “We need Latino doctors visible in social media, TV, print, and radio to inspire students and show them that they, too, can excel in hospitals, committees, and major organizations.”
For Dr. Mau, the mission is clear: amplify the voices of Latino professionals and empower communities to live healthier, happier lives.
“It’s vital we showcase the incredible work of Latino healthcare professionals and influencers,” he said. “Because when people see themselves reflected in these roles, it changes everything.”
LATINOS IN HEALTH
DR. JOSÉ ALEJANDRO LUCHSINGER
HEALING FUTURE GENERATIONS
Joseph
Treviño Courtesy
Dr. José Alejandro Luchsinger looks to help people who suffer from dementia and Alzheimer’s disease by doing groundbreaking research.
He is one of the leading medical researchers tackling dementia and Alzheimer’s disease, a heartbreaking condition which robs millions of their memories and ability to live life as they once knew. For Latinos, this work is especially crucial as Latinos are twice as likely than Caucasians to be living with Alzheimer’s disease.
Dr. José Alejandro Luchsinger, who is the director of the Center for Research on Aging and Quality of life and vice-chair for Clinical and Epidemiologic Research in the Department of Medicine at Columbia University Irving Medical Center in New York, has been working for decades to better understand this disease, especially in his community in Upper Manhattan.
His work started by researching how a drug that manages sugar in the blood may help to prevent dementia, a type of Alzheimer’s disease, and people at high risk. His expertise also brought him to study a synthetic version of vitamin B1, known as benfotiamine, in the BenfoTeam clinical trial, named after the study treatment.
“Right now, I'm involved in two clinical trials. One is about metformin, which has metabolic effects on the body and we want to see what kind effects it has on the brain and the risk of Alzheimer's disease in particular. But the other one is the trial of benfotiamine, which we believe also affects the metabolism in the brain, but in a different way,” Luchsinger said.
Growing Up In Venezuela, Moving to the U.S.
Dr. Luchsinger’s grandfather served as a strong influence on his life. After escaping the Spanish Civil war, he and his family settled in Venezuela, where his medical practice thrived.
“I was most attracted by the intellectual challenges that internal medicine brings. That's actually one of the things that I find the most enjoyable about internal medicine. In addition to that, like my grandfather, I've always liked to interact with patients and help people, explain complex medical problems to them,” Luchsinger recalled.
“I know that this career path was the one for me.”
Luchsinger started studying medicine in Venezuela, but hoping to train in medicine at the highest levels, he moved to the United States in 1993. Family roots in the Northeast of the country also added a level of comfort.
“My grandmother was from Boston and I used to spend summers in Massachusetts. I've always felt great affinity for the United States and for New England and the East Coast in particular,” Luchsinger said. “In Venezuela it was difficult to earn a living and be independent. So coming to the United States facilitated my career and enabled me to pursue important work.”
A Career in Medicine
After earning a medical degree from the Universidad Central de Venezuela in Caracas, Dr. Luchsinger completed an internal medicine residency, including one year as chief medical resident at St. Luke’s Hospital located in New York City. In addition, he completed a general medicine fellowship at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, including getting a masters in public health in epidemiology from the Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University Irving Medical Center.
For Dr. Luchsinger, being Latino meant having to work harder than most.
“I do feel that sometimes I have to work harder than everybody else. However, I think that working hard has paid off well,” Dr. Luchsinger said. “In addition, I think that, overall, I've been very lucky, and I am grateful to the United States and those who have supported me along the way at St. Luke’s hospital first, and Columbia University Irving Medical Center in the last 25 years.”
Notably, his research with BenfoTeam, a Phase 2 clinical trial funded by the National Institute on Aging, is focusing on benfotiamine, which has been specifically developed to enhance its absorption by the brain.
The BenfoTeam study is being carried out at about 50 clinical research sites across the country. Researchers are evaluating the effects of benfotiamine on cognitive function and preservation and/ or potential improvement in daily routine activities.
For people interested in learning more about the BenfoTeam trial and how to enroll, visit BenfoTeam.org.
As for Dr. Luchsinger, he is motivated to push on in his research, especially in the Latino community.
Dr. Luchsinger adds, “I think another important feature of my journey, if you will, is not just stopping at interesting observations, but see if the observations can lead to ways of helping people, which we test in clinical trials such as BenfoTeam.”
HOW A CAREER IN LOCAL POLICY PAVED THE WAY FOR LATINO ADVOCACY AT CHILDREN’S HEALTH SM
Cristal Retana’s parents hoped she would grow up to be an engineer, a lawyer or a doctor. Raised in a Mexican household, those were the careers she had been told would lead to success. Wanting to make her parents proud, Cristal pursued a chemistry degree and made plans to go to medical school.
Valeria Olivares Courtesy of Children's Health
But her desire to help people in a different way gnawed at her.
“I realized my path to help people was not through medicine, but through becoming a voice for those that felt like they didn’t have one or didn’t know how to vocalize it,” Cristal said. “I wanted to ensure that those who didn't know how to work the system were able to get the information and resources they needed.”
A former Farmers Branch city council member, Cristal now serves as Vice President of Community Relations at Children’s Health, where she advances local policy on behalf of the hospital system.
“We’re a conduit between Children’s Health and the community,” Cristal said. “Whether it’s nonprofit organizations, corporate partners, elected officials or community leaders, we aim to share our story and develop partnerships and relationships with those who can join us in our mission to make life better for children.”
How does your role support the hospital’s Hispanic population?
CR: Our team is dedicated to finding and partnering with community organizations and nonprofits to learn about the resources available within our communities. We then share that information with our other partners, especially those who serve our Latino community, as nearly 50% of our patients at Children’s Health are Hispanic. Most of the families that our outreach team sees are also Hispanic and the reason they come to us is because they might not speak English; they don’t understand the jargon used in health insurance documents; or they’re unsure about filling out the application correctly. There could also be a digital divide — some might not have a computer. Our outreach representatives are able to help families one-on-one to fill out these applications. Sometimes, they may not even be our patients – we’re doing this as part of our mission to help our community and make life better for children. Our team has been able to help thousands of families and children secure health insurance for themselves. If families
SUPPORTING CHILDREN’S HEALTH ENSURES WE ARE ABLE TO HELP EVERY CHILD WHO COMES THROUGH OUR DOORS TO THE BEST OF OUR ABILITY EACH AND EVERY DAY. ”
“
need resources outside of our hospital, like food or rental assistance, our representatives also can refer them to one of our community partners.
In the past couple of years, I also helped start a coalition of Hispanic-serving nonprofits, called La Alianza, that meet every other month to discuss the issues impacting Latinos and their families and figure out ways to support them through available resources.
What are you most proud of the work you do at the hospital?
CR: I am most proud of the fact that more people across Texas and surrounding communities now understand that Children’s Health deserves a seat at the table if we need someone to talk about the quality of life for kids. Whether it is a community coalition, a city task force or a school health advisory council, we are able to provide data and information, so our community leaders are able to make the best decision for our kids and families. Success for me is having the opportunity to share our story and our resources. We’re now a part of the conversation. I’m so proud of our team. We are a very small team, but we extend out into so many different areas. We’re all passionate about helping our community and helping children.
My family was also like the ones we help today. I was one of those kids that were positively impacted by nonprofits. Being able to work at Children’s Health and collaborate with other organizations now is amazing. It’s something I'm proud to be a part of.
Why is supporting the work being done at Children’s Health important?
CR: We are constantly looking for an opportunity to share our story and build a connection where we can ensure that we have another advocate, another community partner, another entity that can support us in our mission to make life better for children. Supporting Children’s Health ensures we are able to help every child who comes through our doors to the best of our ability each and every day. Our families go through so much when it comes to ensuring their child gets better. Supporting Children’s Health, particularly at a time in which we’re expanding and building the new Dallas pediatric campus, ultimately allows us to help more kids.
LATINO SERVING ON CORPORATE BOARDS: UPDATE END OF YEAR 2024
As the number of Latinos serving on corporate boards is on the rise, Latino Leaders is proud to present a supplement list to the one published in our May-June edition. Congratulations to all the new appointments and we hope to keep seeing this upward tendency.
Annette Franqui, founding partner of Forrestal Capital, has over 30 years of financial industry expertise. She previously served as CFO of Panamerican Beverages, managing its $3.6B sale. A former JP Morgan Managing Director and Goldman Sachs Vice President, she specializes in private equity, investment banking, and Latin American markets. Franqui holds a Wharton B.S. and a Stanford MBA and serves on several corporate and nonprofit boards.
Judith Klimovsky is a seasoned drug developer with over 20 years of R&D leadership experience in global biopharma, including key roles at Genmab, Novartis, Merck, and Bristol-Myers Squibb. She specializes in oncology and hematology, driving the successful development and approval of critical cancer therapies. A medical doctor from the Universidad de Buenos Aires, she brings extensive clinical, scientific, and international expertise, including work across Latin America. JUDITH
MARIE GLAZER
Rose Marie Glazer is EVP and General Counsel at AIG, overseeing legal, compliance, regulatory, government affairs, global security, and sustainability teams. She previously served as Chief Human Resources & Diversity Officer. With over 30 years in legal leadership at global firms like Siemens, Telvista, and American Airlines, she holds a J.D. from SMU Dedman School of Law.
ANNETTE FRANQUI
MARIA
FERRERAS
Age: 52
Ferreras is Netflix's Global Head of Partnerships and a leader in tech. She began in telecommunications before joining YouTube in 2007, where she shaped partnerships and content strategies in Europe and emerging markets. Her success led her to Netflix in 2017 as VP of Business Development for EMEA. In 2021, she became Global Head of Partnerships, managing key relationships worldwide. With a master's degree in telecommunications engineering, she is fluent in Spanish, English, Italian, and French. Maria also serves on the board of E.L.F., contributing her expertise in digital transformation. Based in the Bay Area, she remains connected to her Hispanic roots, inspiring women in tech
Age: 48
Madrid, SP
Nationality:
Sergi Herrero is CEO of Mangopay, a payment infrastructure provider, and Chairman of Intix. He serves on the boards of Ezra and Euronet. Previously, he was Co-CEO of VEON, Global Director of Payments at Meta, and held roles at Square and BNP Paribas. Sergi brings deep expertise in payments and fintech, having driven innovation at leading global companies. He holds master's degrees from UC Berkeley and Ramon Llull University, Spain, and a BS in Electrical Engineering.
MARIA WALKER
Age: 59
Independent Board Member, Audit Committee
Five9, MapLight Therapeutics, Global Support and
JESUS MALAVE JR
Age: 55 Bethesda, MA
Maria Walker is an Independent Board Member and Audit Committee Chairman with extensive leadership experience. She retired as CFO of Patient Square Capital in 2023 and held key roles at KPMG, including Audit Partner and Global Lead Partner of Private Equity. She co-founded Recuerdo Therapeutics, served as CFO for Montes Archimedes Acquisition Corp, and was a board member at ForgeRock. Maria holds a B.A. in Economics from UC San Diego.
Jesus "Jay" Malave Jr. is the Chief Financial Officer of Lockheed Martin, overseeing financial reporting, investor relations, strategic planning, and M&A activities. Previously CFO at L3Harris Technologies, Carrier, and UTC Aerospace Systems, he also led investor relations at United Technologies. Jay holds a J.D. from the University of Connecticut School of Law and an M.S. in Accounting from the University of Hartford.
SILVIA
Age: NA
PEREZ CASSARINO
Silvia M. Perez Cassarino is a seasoned business executive with a proven track record in driving organizational excellence and leading transformational growth in diverse industries, particularly healthcare. She excels in M&A, strategy, and international business, with experience spanning life cycle stages of businesses. Passionate about DEI and fostering high-performing teams, Silvia has held senior roles at 3M, leading commercial and healthcare divisions. She also chairs the Board of Directors for the Children's Theatre Company.
Age: 45
San Francisco, CA
Nationality:
Leah Solivan is a founder, entrepreneur, and investor with over 20 years of experience in technology. She founded TaskRabbit in 2008 and led it as CEO before transitioning to Executive Chairwoman. Leah now invests in early-stage startups at Fuel Capital and hosts Breaking Precedent the Podcast. She is on the Board of Directors for PetMeds and the San Francisco Ballet, and is dedicated to increasing diversity in tech and business. Leah has been featured in major publications like Time and Wired.
BERTIL CHAPPUIS
Age: 57
San Juan, PR
Nationality:
Founder & CEO of Xtillion, a data and AI services firm. Former Senior Partner at McKinsey & Company with 27 years of experience advising tech and private equity clients. Board member of Popular, Inc. Chairman of Platform for Social Impact, focused on economic mobility in Puerto Rico. Deeply committed to social impact, investor, and mentor.
Age: 56 Dallas, TX
Nationality:
JO-ANN DE PASS OLSOVSKY
Railway, Quanta Services, Reltio
Age: 59 Bay area, CA
Nationality:
Experienced technology executive and board member. Former EVP & CIO at Salesforce, leading global IT for Salesforce core, Mulesoft, Tableau, and Slack. Board member at Canadian National Railway, Quanta Services, and Reltio. Previously held leadership roles at BNSF Railway, AT&T, GTE, and Verizon. Recognized for operational excellence, innovation, and community contributions.
Successful CEO with thirty years of experience in commercial, leadership and Board positions in the medical technology industry. Currently, President , CEO Hyperfine Inc ( Nasdaq: HYPR). Previously, President and CEO of AEGEA Medical, President and CEO of Cardiokinetix, and President and CEO of Concentric Medical, Inc. BA from Complutense University of Madrid MA in Languages. MIM from Thunderbird School of International Management Master's Degree in International Management.
Age: 61 North Chicago, IL Nationality:
Carlos Albán is a seasoned pharma executive with over 30 years of experience. Former Vice Chairman and Chief Commercial Officer at AbbVie, he led global commercial operations. Previously, he held senior roles at Abbott, overseeing international pharmaceutical operations. Albán currently serves on the boards of SpringWorks Therapeutics and Solventum. He holds an economics degree from Pontificia Universidad Javeriana.
SAINZ
Inc; Tissium Inc.; Onera Health Boards
CARLOS ALBAN
Age: 57 Monte Sereno, CA
Nationality:
Martinez retired from Cisco Systems as executive vice president and COO. Before Cisco, she held senior roles at Salesforce, including president of Global Customer Success and Latin America. Prior to Salesforce, she managed Microsoft’s global services business and held leadership roles at Motorola and AT&T. She was also CEO of Embrace Networks. Recognized as No. 2 on ALPFA’s 50 Most Powerful Latinas list, she holds a bachelor’s in electrical engineering from the University of Puerto Rico and a master’s in computer engineering from Ohio State University. MARIA
MARTINEZ
Age: 60
United States
Nationality:
Rogério Vivaldi Coelho is an experienced healthcare executive, formerly CEO of Sigilon Therapeutics and Minerva Neurosciences. He has held senior roles at Genzyme, Spark Therapeutics, and Bioverativ, contributing to innovative medicine approvals and global commercial strategies. He currently serves on the boards of Crinetics Pharmaceuticals and Viatris. Dr. Vivaldi holds a doctorate from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro and an MBA from COPPEAD. ROGERIO
VIVALDI
JOSE SEGRERA
Age: 53 Miami, FL Nationality:
Jose Segrera, co-founder and partner at Segrera Associates, brings over 30 years of experience in the technology infrastructure, cybersecurity, and software sectors. He has held CFO roles at Terremark and FirstCom, leading their successful sales to Verizon and AT&T, respectively. Currently, he advises IT infrastructure and SaaS businesses, including Mac Stadium and Backpack Networks. Segrera holds BBA and Master of Accounting degrees from the University of Miami and chairs WOW!’s Audit Committee.
SAENZ
Age: 54 Dallas, TX
Nationality:
Hernán Sáenz is a Senior Partner at Bain & Company, leading its Global Performance Improvement Practice. With over 25 years of experience, he specializes in corporate transformations, operational turnarounds, and strategy. A former Managing Partner for Bain Southwest, he also lectures at Cornell University and advises the World Economic Forum on advanced manufacturing. Hernán is committed to promoting Latino business talent through initiatives like Latinos at Bain.
Head, Performance Improvement Practice
Age: 48 Washington, DC Nationality:
Bendza serves as an independent director of Modine Manufacturing, a thermal management technology company. He also serves as CFO of Telos Corporation, a leading provider of cyber, cloud, and enterprise security solutions for the world's most security-conscious organizations. Prior to joining Telos, he served as the head of investor relations for Honeywell. Prior to that, he held executive roles in finance and international business at Northrop Grumman and investment banking roles with global investment banks in the United States and overseas.
MARK BENDZA
ELLEN OCHOA
Age: 66 Boise, ID Nationality:
Outside Director, Speaker, Veteran Astronaut
Age: 43 Palo Alto, CA Nationality:
Ellen Ochoa, the first Latina astronaut, is an accomplished aerospace leader and former Director of NASA’s Johnson Space Center. She serves on the boards of NVIDIA, SCI, and other organizations, focusing on STEM advocacy and change management. A member of the National Academy of Engineering and recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, Ochoa is dedicated to inspiring minorities in STEM.
Julie M. Gonzalez is Senior VP of Business Finance at Workday, overseeing forecasting, planning, and performance analysis across global teams. With 15+ years in finance and leadership, she previously served as Senior VP at VMware, leading M&A efforts and SaaS transformation. Her experience spans roles at Maxim Integrated and AT&T. Julie holds an Electrical Engineering degree from Stanford and an MBA from Santa Clara University.
Age: 67 Ann Arbor, MI
Nationality:
MAURO GREGORIO
Global executive with 40 years at Dow, leading divisions like Performance Materials & Coatings. Expertise in reshaping businesses, M&A, and governance. Former chair of USA-Brazil CEO Forum, fluent in Portuguese, Spanish, and English. Holds a BS in Chemical Engineering and an MBA.
Age: 70 Miami, FL
Nationality:
Adis Vila is a global CXO with 30+ years of public and private sector experience, specializing in navigating regulated industries, international business, and organizational transformation. Former Chief Diversity Officer at USAFA, she brings expertise in governance, DEI, and public policy. A Cuban-born political refugee, she speaks four languages and has lived and worked across the U.S., Latin America, and Europe.
Age: 64 Atlanta, GA
Nationality:
Alfredo Trujillo, President of the Georgia Tech Foundation, has over 30 years of leadership experience spanning aerospace, energy, and nonprofit sectors. A Georgia Tech and Stanford MBA graduate, he serves on the Havertys Furniture Board as Audit Chair. Former CEO of Recall Corp., he has held various director roles, bringing expertise in governance, finance, and strategic growth. ALFREDO
JULIE M. GONZALEZ
TRUJILLO
Age: 43
FL
ANNETTE RODRIGUEZ-FERRER
Annette Rodriguez is a private equity leader and co-founder of MKH Capital Partners. A Wharton and Harvard MBA graduate, she has served on boards across sectors, including healthcare, retail, and aerospace. Previously a Managing Director at Warburg Pincus, she oversaw investments in consumer and industrial firms. Annette is committed to ESG principles and serves on nonprofit and corporate boards.
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Anthony "Tony" López is a multicultural leader, author, and speaker with global C-suite experience in Fortune 500 companies. Founder of L&L Associates, he is a leadership expert with >$1B P&L experience. He served as CEO of AZZUR GROUP and held leadership roles at Ansell Healthcare, CareFusion, and J&J. A former Air Force Captain, he holds engineering degrees and is a decorated military officer.
PARDO
Age: 55
New York, NY
Nationality:
Beatriz Pardo Martín is a seasoned executive with over 30 years of experience in consumer-facing sectors, holding leadership roles at global companies like Starbucks, Grupo Vips, and Heineken. She specializes in brand transformation, retail innovation, and strategic operations. Beatriz is renowned for driving growth and value creation in FMCG, hospitality, and retail sectors across Europe and the U.S.
Age: 49
Washington, DC
Nationality:
Brandon Torres Declet is a distinguished executive in drones, robotics, and defense, serving as CEO and Board Director at Exyn Technologies and co-founder of ReadyMonitor. A five-time CEO and founder with expertise in M&A, corporate strategy, and regulatory affairs, he has led multiple companies to profitable exits. Appointed to the FAA's Advanced Aviation Advisory Committee, he shapes aviation innovation. A recognized Latino leader and Tech Titan, he holds advanced degrees from Georgetown and Fordham.
Age: 53 Brooklyn, NY
Nationality:
David Ashe is a seasoned CEO and board director with expertise in leading private equity-backed companies. With over 25 years of experience in strategic governance, M&A, P&L management, and business transformation, he has driven record-setting growth and profitable exits in diverse industries across the U.S. and Latin America. Passionate about diversity and governance, he is an Executive Member of the Latino Corporate Directors Association (LCDA) and a fluent communicator in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.
DAVID SEGURA
Age: NA Miami, FL
Nationality:
CEO of Aximas AI, an AI solutions and products company. Built one of the largest Hispanic-owned technology service firms in the U.S. from startup to acquisition as CEO of VisionIT. Served at the White House on U.S. Trade. Launched venture backed FreightVerify, a SaaS based AI enabled software for global supply chains with tracking and prediction. Served on boards of key Latino organizations including the launch of HITEC (Hispanic IT Executive Council) and LBAN (Latino Business Action Network) at Stanford University. Served on board of the Alumni Association of the University of Michigan.
Age: 53
New Jersey, NJ
Nationality:
CASTILLEJOS
Age: 56
M&A dealmaker and global business leader, Desiree Castillejos serves on the Board of Hunter Industries, and on NJEDA’s Diversity Finance Advisory Board. Desiree is currently the Chief Strategy Officer and M&A Head North America for Scutum Group. She was previously the VP of Business Development for EMEA at Johnson Controls, and held executive roles at Kimball Electronics and Nokia. Desiree earned her MBA from The Wharton School and her MSc in Computer Engineering from the Université de Technologie de Compiègne, France. She was recently recognized as one of the 50 Women to Watch for Boards.
Eddie Ramos is a seasoned Chief Investment Officer, Chief Strategy Officer, and Independent Director with a strong background in global investments. He has an exceptional track record managing assets for private enterprises, government entities, and endowments, including leading three 5-star Morningstar-rated mutual funds. He is committed to advising organizations aiming to tackle global issues with measurable social and environmental impact while maintaining financial return. He holds numerous board and leadership roles.
Age: 55
Eduardo Hauser is a seasoned executive with over a decade as a portfolio CEO for leading private equity firms and 20+ years as a divisional leader for multinational media companies. He co-founded AOL Latin America, leading its $2B NASDAQ IPO, and eventual sale to TimeWarner. He also founded DailyMe, a content personalization platform, and led its sale to Cricket Media. Known for driving innovation and geographic expansion, Eduardo creates value through strategic growth and digital innovation. He has served on NPR, GEMS, Vme Media, and VIX boards.
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Elizabeth Oliver-Farrow is an experienced board director, entrepreneur, and former CEO with 40 years in public affairs, governance, and strategic partnerships. She chairs the Latino Corporate Directors Association and advises on accessing the $3.6T U.S. Latino economy. A coalition builder and advocate for diversity, Elizabeth has led outreach programs for federal agencies and served on the boards of CareFirst BCBS and major nonprofit organizations.
Hunter Industries Boards
RAMOS
ELIZABETH OLIVER-FARROW
ELIZABETH ATLEE
Age: 50
Los Angeles, CA
Nationality:
Liz Atlee, a global business executive and Deputy General Counsel, specializes in legal, compliance, governance, ESG, and DEI transformation. She has led teams across 37 countries and chaired CBRE's compliance programs during significant growth. Liz is Board Chair of Cyclum Renewables and serves on nonprofit boards including USC Gould School of Law. Recognized among the 50 Most Powerful Latinas, she is committed to driving growth, innovation, and diversity.
Age: 43 Chicago, IL
Nationality:
EMMA RODRIGUEZ-AYALA
Emma Rodriguez-Ayala is a seasoned legal and operations executive with nearly 20 years of experience in investment management. She serves as the CAO, General Counsel, and Board Secretary at Ariel Investments, overseeing legal, compliance, governance, and risk operations. She has previously held leadership roles at LGIM America and Mesirow Advanced Strategies, where she managed legal, risk, and governance functions. Emma is also an independent director at First Bank Chicago and serves on multiple boards.
Age: 44 San Francisco, CA
Nationality:
EUGENIA GIBBONS
Eugenia Gibbons is a senior executive with a proven track record in accelerating digital growth and innovation. As General Manager at SoFi, she led the consumer banking unit, took the company public, and secured a bank license. She was instrumental in digital transformation at BBVA, reaching over 70 million customers globally. Passionate about Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion, Eugenia advocates for these causes while driving business growth and innovation.
Age: 49 Switzerland Nationality:
FELIPE FLOREZ-ARANGO
CFO PE Pc’s & Board of Directors
BioXpansion / Gotogate Switzerland AG
Felipe Florez-Arango is a seasoned executive with over 25 years of experience in leadership roles across private and public companies globally. He has expertise in financial oversight, improving efficiencies, and building high-performing teams. With a background at major firms like Pharmanovia, STADA, Allergan, and Novartis, Felipe has served on numerous boards worldwide. His experience spans Europe, the U.S., Latin America, and Asia, focusing on innovation, collaboration, and driving financial integrity.
Helvion Pharma AG; BioXpansion GmbH Boards
FRANCISCO LEIJA
Age: 50 New York, NY
Nationality:
Founder & Principal Modern Phalanx Solutions, LLC
Francisco Leija is a private company advisor with nearly three decades of executive leadership experience. He is fluent in Spanish and specializes in strategic advising for early tech companies and higher education institutions. His career spans roles in defense procurement, congressional liaison work, and significant experience in military leadership, having served as a Colonel in the U.S. Army. He is passionate about Latino, disability, veteran, and education issues, and is active with several boards.
Norwich University; HQE, Department of Army Boards
FRANCISCO URIARTE
Francisco Uriarte is an accomplished co-founder, President & CEO with 34+ years’ experience in Private Equity, Corporate & Entrepreneurial Finance, Business Valuations, Strategy, Marketing, Operations and M&A. He has raised equity and debt, delivered increased shareholder value, led the audit and investment committees, chaired boards and brings a diverse perspective and business insights having led investor backed entities, advised venture backed entities and invested in & governed private equity investment vehicles.
Geisha Jimenez Williams has over three decades of experience in the energy industry, including serving as the first Latina CEO of PG&E Corporation. Under her leadership, PG&E achieved high levels of customer satisfaction and safety while advancing in renewables and smart grid technologies. Williams is currently Chair of Osmose Utilities, Board Member of Artera Services, and Supervisory Board Member of Siemens Energy. She holds degrees in engineering and business, and is active in several nonprofit and policy organizations.
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Guillermo Aponte is an accomplished business executive with global experience in the food and beverage industry. As CEO and Founder of StratVizor LLC, he helps businesses achieve revenue and profit growth. He also serves on the boards of Diaz Foods and Source to Bottle. Known for his bold strategies and leadership, Aponte inspires teams and drives results in complex environments.
50
WI
Héctor Colón is the President & CEO of Lutheran Social Services, leading a $42M financial turnaround and strategic growth. A former champion boxer, Colón transitioned into servant leadership, driving transformation in social services and inspiring others through his book From Boxing Ring to Boardroom. He also serves on multiple boards.
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Indrani L. Franchini, J.D., serves on the Avanos Medical board and is a legal and compliance expert with experience at Alnylam, Alexion, Hess, Pfizer, and Milbank LLP. She has led compliance transformations and supported global operations in healthcare and energy sectors. A graduate of Princeton and the University of Michigan Law School, she contributes extensive leadership and governance expertise.
Diaz Foods; Source to Bottle Boards
INDRANI FRANCHINI
Age: 50
TX
Janie Martinez Gonzalez is the CEO of Webhead, a leader in web, mobile, and cloud solutions. She also serves as Chairman of CPS Energy, championing policies and technologies to revolutionize energy generation and storage. As the first Mexican-American woman on CPS Energy's board, she focuses on innovation, resilience, and community impact. A San Antonio Women's Hall of Fame inductee, she holds a BA from UT San Antonio and completed postgraduate studies at the University of the Incarnate Word. JANIE
MARTINEZ GONZALEZ
JEAN-CLAUDE TISSOT
Jean Claude Tissot is the President of Coca-Cola Southwest Beverages, overseeing operations in the U.S. and Mexico. With over 20 years in the Coca-Cola system, he has led record financial growth, sustainability initiatives, and cultural transformation. Known for fostering collaboration and digitization, Tissot emphasizes employee engagement and talent development. He holds MS degrees from CESA (Colombia) and a BS from ICESI University.
JOCELYN
Age: 49
Miami, FL
Nationality:
CORTEZ YOUNG
Partner & Founder
Jocelyn founded Minerva Capital Group in 2009, a direct investment platform with an ESG lens that helps families express their values and social impact in their investment mandates. Previously, as part of the first Hispanic Business Leaders’ Forum at the White House, she was recognized as a seasoned leader and pioneer in impact investing. She gives lectures at such institutions as MIT Sloan School of Business, Kellogg School of Business, and Merrill Lynch. She frequently appears on CNN (in English and Spanish) and has contributed to publications throughout Latin America.
Age: 59 Las Vegas, NV Nationality:
Jonathan Huberman has over 25 years of high-tech business leadership experience. He is currently the CEO of Nogin, which provides the world’s leading ecommerce technology and services that deliver superior ecommerce growth and profitability. This is Jonathan’s sixth time serving as a CEO of a technology company. His previous five CEO roles ended with successful exits to strategics or private equity buyers. Jonathan also spent nine years as an investor for the Bass Family and has had senior roles in private equity leading the operations of the technology investments of the Gores Group and Skyview Capital. Mr Huberman has a degree in Computer Science from Princeton University and an MBA from the Wharton School of Business.
Age: 50 Miami, FL Nationality:
Jorge A. Plasencia is the Global Chief Client Officer of Havas Creative Network and Co-Founder, Chairman & CEO of Republica Havas, partnering with top brands worldwide. His career includes executive roles at the Florida Marlins, Estefan Enterprises, and Univision. A former TotalBank board director, he’s been named Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year and CEO of the Year by the Greater Miami Chamber. He co-founded Amigos For Kids and serves as board chair of the Miami Dade College Foundation, and on the boards of PBS, Aspen Institue Latinos & Society, NMSDC, and Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts.
JONATHAN HUBERMAN CEO
Nogin Inc.
Curiosity Stream; Aculon Boards
JORGE PLASENCIA
Republica Havas
Republica Havas, LLC
JULIAN FRANCO
Age: 45
Los Angeles, CA
Nationality:
Julian Franco, President of Strategy and Operations at Fox Entertainment, is a strategic leader with expertise in business development, content creation, e-commerce, and marketing. He drives high-impact strategies and inspires teams to achieve aggressive results. With a dual degree in Marketing and International Business from Florida Atlantic University, he combines technical knowledge and leadership to build successful initiatives in streaming and e-commerce.
Age: 65
Miami, FL
Nationality:
Julio Ramirez is a highly experienced executive with over 35 years in leadership roles, including CEO and COO positions at public companies. He specializes in strategy, talent development, and scaling operations for businesses with market capitalizations. Julio has extensive non-profit board experience and a global network, including franchise expertise in Central America. A member of the Latino Corporate Directors Association, he advocates for diversity and inclusion.
Age: 58 New York, NY
Nationality:
Age: 59 Chattanooga, TN Nationality:
Lisa has been EVP and general counsel of Unum Group since 2015, overseeing legal affairs, corporate compliance, privacy, regulatory matters, and more. She also leads Unum’s Internal Audit, Aviation, and Information Security functions. With 25 years as general counsel for four Fortune 500 companies, she previously held roles at WellCare Health Plans, Nordstrom, and Spherion. A CPA with degrees from USF, she graduated first in her class at the University of Miami law school. Lisa is a director at Ambac Financial Group, serves on several boards, and resides in Chattanooga, TN, with her family.
LUCIE CLAIRE VINCENT ORTIZ
Lucie Claire Vincent is a seasoned global executive with 30+ years in leadership roles at multinational consumer product companies like Colgate-Palmolive and Philip Morris. She has managed P&Ls of up to $3B across North America, Latin America, Asia, and beyond. Known for her strategic leadership, Lucie excels in business transformation, governance, and risk management. She mentors startups and advocates for gender equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Age: 44 Kirkland, WA Nationality:
Head
Luis Villegas is an accomplished technology leader with expertise in game development, cloud strategy, and software engineering. With experience at Bungie, Electronic Arts, and Microsoft, Luis has worked on iconic games like Halo, Destiny, and Madden. He now serves as Head of Technology, Creative, and Services at PlayStation Studios. Luis holds an MBA in Technology Management from UW Foster School of Business and an MS in Computer Science from DigiPen Institute of Technology.
JULIO RAMIREZ
LISA IGLESIAS
LUIS VILLEGAS
Age: 58 Houston, TX
Nationality:
MANOLO SANCHEZ RODRIGUEZ
Manolo Sánchez, former Chairman of BBVA, transformed BBVA Compass into one of the top 20 U.S. commercial banks by deposits, growing its assets from $3bn to $100bn. He led the acquisition of six banks and adopted a client-centric model. Manolo spearheaded innovations in digital banking and mobile services, earning recognition for BBVA. A global speaker, he worked with leaders like President George W. Bush and Steve Wozniak. He continues to leverage his expertise in technology and financial management in future opportunities.
Age: 52
San Diego, CA
Nationality:
MANUELA "NELLY" MOLINA
Seasoned executive with more than 25 years of experience in the energy sector in the US and Mexico. Prior to CRC she held various senior finance leadership roles at Sempra, including serving as Chief Financial Officer of IEnova. Previously, Nelly served in leadership roles with Kinder Morgan and the former El Paso Corporation in Mexico. She is a director at Corporacion Inmobiliaria Vesta. She’s also a board member at Make-A-Wish Tri Counties and other non-profit organizations and institutions. Nelly holds an accounting degree from Universidad de Sonora and a master’s degree in finance by ITESM.
Age: 50 Saint Louis, MO
Nationality:
Marcela Manjarrez, bestselling author and CEO of M Strategic Communications, has 25+ years of experience in strategic communications, reputation management, and leadership. She was Chief Communications Officer at Centene Corporation, overseeing enterprise-wide communications and managing the Centene Charitable Foundation. Previously, she spent 15 years at the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, ending as VP of Public Affairs. Marcela holds degrees in Economics from UMSL and Washington University and serves on multiple corporate and nonprofit boards.
MARGARET LAZO
Age: 57
Margaret Lazo is a seasoned HR leader and DE&I advocate with expertise in human capital strategy, organizational transformation, and culture building. She has held executive HR roles at Univision, GE Capital, and NBC Universal, driving M&A, leadership, and business growth. Margaret serves on multiple boards, including Heartland Financial, Xapa, and the Hispanic Federation, leveraging her bilingual and bicultural background to foster inclusion and operational excellence.
MARIA AZUA HIMMEL
Age: 64 Jacksonville, FL Nationality:
Maria Azua Himmel, Managing Director at Bank of America, leads Enterprise Data Platforms and Services, overseeing a 150-petabyte data lake and driving data governance, cloud technology, and IT innovation. With a 25+ year career at firms like Fidelity, Barclays, and IBM, she holds 51 patents and authored The Social Factor. A WITI Hall of Fame inductee, she also serves on the American Red Cross Board and advocates for tech education.
Age: 62
Denver, CO
Nationality:
Mario M. Carrera is a seasoned media and marketing communications professional with 35+ years of experience dedicated to advancing Latino and community well-being. He serves on the Board of Directors for Intermountain Health System and other organizations. Formerly Chief Revenue & Content Officer at Entravision Communications, he has expertise in media, strategic planning, and P&L management. Mario holds a sociology degree from Harvard and is a certified member of the Latino Corporate Directors Association.
Age: 55
Boulder, CO
Nationality:
Marta Ronquillo Newhart, an independent director and Fortune 100 executive, specializes in crisis management, corporate strategy, M&A, and brand transformation. As Chief Communications & Brand Officer for Westinghouse, she led a $300M brand transformation and seven acquisitions. Recognized for elevating CCO and CMO roles, Marta has driven ESG, DEI, and digital initiatives, earning accolades such as Diversity Journal's Latino Leadership Award and Ragan Communications' Hall of Fame induction.
Age: 64
FL
Mick Lopez is a seasoned global CFO with over 30 years of leadership across Fortune 500, public, and private equity companies. He has expertise in M&A, IPO readiness, capital markets, and global expansion, delivering shareholder value for billion-dollar businesses. A Cuban American fluent in four languages, he has lived and worked in the US, France, South Africa, Brazil, and India.
Age: 59
Monika is the co-founder of Altura Capital, a values-driven investment platform delivering results for 19 years. Based in Miami, Altura fosters ecosystems of entrepreneurs, investors, and corporations, focusing on private equity, private debt, and company building. Monika's 30-year career spans finance, law, and logistics, with a mission to empower diverse, scalable businesses. She holds an MBA from Columbia and a J.D. from Universidad del Rosario.
Age: 54 Milwaukee, WI Nationality:
Nancy Hernandez leads ABRAZO, a marketing firm specializing in multicultural audiences, and serves as president of the Hispanic Collaborative. She is dedicated to advancing economic opportunities for Latinos in Milwaukee and holds an MBA from Marquette University.
CARRERA
MARTA RONQUILLO NEWHART
APCO International Advisory; Lincoln Educational Services Corp Boards
Cidrines; AVS; Rocket Health Partners; Coastal Painting Boards
NANCY HERNANDEZ
Age: 47 San Francisco, CA
Nationality:
GARZON-MITCHELL
Nichol Garzon-Mitchell is a global business leader and Chief Legal Officer with expertise in corporate governance, legal and regulatory risk management, and strategic growth. As SVP of Corporate Development and Corporate Secretary at Glass Lewis, she has helped scale the company into a leading global SaaS provider of governance solutions. Recognized as one of ALPFA's Top 50 Most Powerful Latinas and a Top Latino Lawyer by Latino Leaders Magazine, Nichol is a trusted advisor on compliance and sustainability.
Age: 63
CO
Nationality:
GUERRERO MAHON
Age: NA New York, NY
Nationality:
Nilsa Guerrero-Mahon is a senior executive and financial expert with a background in global corporate finance, accounting, and governance. She serves as Chair of the Audit Committee for NioCorp Developments and a Board Member of FinGoal, Inc. Formerly at Microsoft, she led compliance and financial operations. Certified as an NACD Board Leadership Fellow, she has extensive experience in financial management, regulatory compliance, and corporate governance.
Noreen oversees the Wealth Planning experience for The Snyder/Balducci Group, advising clients on complex financial issues, including investment strategy, tax minimization, risk management, and wealth transfer. A CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® and CEPA®, she specializes in exit planning for business owners. With a B.S. in Finance from NYU Stern, Noreen mentors CEOs in the Stanford Latino Entrepreneurship Initiative and serves on the boards of LCDA's Board Ready Institute and AARP Foundation.
Age: 63 Miami, FL
Nationality:
Oscar Suarez is a seasoned financial expert with 40 years of public accounting experience across consumer, retail, hospitality, and banking sectors. A former EY leader for Florida and Puerto Rico, he now serves on the boards of Amerant Bancorp and Industrial Rail Services. Suarez is a CPA, a founding member of corporate advisory boards at FIU and the University of Miami, and a member of the Latino Corporate Directors Association. He holds an Accounting degree from St. Thomas University.
Age: 51 Bay Area, CA
Rafael Torres is a seasoned healthcare executive, board member, and investor with over 25 years of experience in portfolio transformations, M&A readiness, activist defense, and scaling business models. He is an Operating Partner at Altaris LLC, a $10B AUM healthcare private equity firm, and was previously Chief Strategy & Corporate Development Officer at Varian Medical, where he led its $16B sale to Siemens Healthineers. Rafael is an advocate for equity, active in LCDA, and holds an MBA from Harvard.
Age: N/A Washington, DC Nationality:
Age: 62
Miami, FL
Nationality:
Raquel Tamez is the Chief Inclusion & Engagement Officer at Charles River Associates (CRA), where she leads efforts to integrate inclusion and engagement as core values. Since joining in May 2021, she has created innovative programs that elevate diverse perspectives. Raquel also drives CRA's social impact initiatives. Previously, she served as CEO of the Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers (SHPE), empowering Hispanic students and professionals in STEM. She has held senior leadership roles at SourceAmerica and DXC Technology. Raquel holds degrees from University of Texas at Austin and St. Mary's University School of Law.
NA
Rita Mitjans is a global executive with over 25 years of expertise in aligning people and business strategies to drive growth and sustainable value. As ADP’s former Chief Diversity & CSR Officer, she spearheaded transformative initiatives in DEIB, ESG, and business strategy, contributing to billion-dollar growth. Now the founder of BizGuru, LLC, she advises companies on inclusive culture and go-to-market strategies, leveraging her expertise to enhance performance.
Age: 63
Robert Otto Valdez, PhD, is the Director of the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality and a renowned expert in U.S. healthcare policy, health services research, and health equity. He has held senior roles in the Clinton administration, was founding dean of Drexel’s School of Public Health, and led the RWJF Center for Health Policy. A National Academy of Medicine member, he has championed initiatives advancing community health and health policy innovation.
Rudolph Juarez is a global business strategist with expertise in driving sustainable growth, operational transformation, and employee engagement. With deep experience across 30 countries, he has doubled operating earnings for businesses, spearheaded DEI initiatives, and revitalized corporate resource groups. Currently serving on multiple boards, Juarez holds an MBA from SMU and a BS from ASU, with certification from the Latino Corporate Directors Association.
Successful career in Financial Services. C-level senior executive at Global Companies Citigroup and Barclays, in areas Wealth Management, Consumer Finance, Payments , Fintech among others. Have worked and lived in Latin America, Europe and USA. Board Member previously at Barclays/Sweden Bank, currently at Consumer Finance Fintech BMG Money and Universo. Advisor to start -up Organizations Endeavor Miami and Maze Impact.
RAQUEL TAMEZ
RITA MITJANS
ROBERT OTTO
Forum ; Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute, DC
SANDRA DI MOISE
Sandra Lopez is a seasoned General Manager and CMO with over 20 years of experience spanning B2B and B2B2C at leading companies like Microsoft and Intel. CEO of Ambi Ventures, she is a transformational leader in business innovation, diversity advocacy, and team performance. A recognized speaker and board member, Sandra has received numerous accolades for her contributions to technology, media, and diversity. She is committed to fostering Women and Latine advancement in the workplace.
Sergio De Castro is a senior finance executive with over 20 years of experience in the oil and energy industries. He currently serves as Senior Vice President and Chief Transformation Officer at California Resources Corporation. A Colombian-born industrial engineer with an MBA, Sergio has held leadership roles at Mobil, ExxonMobil, and Aera Energy. Passionate about sustainability, he mentors professionals, supports diversity initiatives, and engages in nonprofit work focused on education and health.
STACIE OLIVARES
Age: 47 Los Angeles, CA
Nationality:
Stacie Olivares is a seasoned C-suite executive, independent board director, and policy expert. With a focus on ESG and DEI, she has guided organizations like CalPERS, KBRA, and the Federal Retirement Thrift Investment Board, overseeing trillions in assets. A qualified financial expert and former Chief Investment Officer, she excels in finance, technology, and policy. Stacie holds degrees from UC Berkeley and Harvard and champions innovation in dynamic markets.
Age: 41 San Diego, CA
Nationality:
Stefan Okhuysen is a Partner and Investment Committee member at HCAP Partners, a private equity and debt firm based in San Diego. With nearly 20 years of experience, he has led or participated in transactions across sectors like logistics, healthcare, and manufacturing in the U.S. and Mexico. Previously, he was a Principal at CVF Capital Partners and VP at Tresalia Capital. Stefan is a member of the Latino Corporate Directors Association and holds an MBA from Kellogg and a BA from Tec de Monterrey.
Age: 50
Los Angeles, CA
Nationality:
Steven Wolfe Pereira is CEO of Alpha & Co., guiding leaders through AI-era growth. Recognized by Adweek and LinkedIn for his expertise in tech, business, and culture, he has held executive roles at Akamai, Univision, and Publicis. Co-founder of edtech firm Encantos, Steven advises high-growth companies and champions diversity and STEAM education. A Fulbright Scholar, he holds degrees from Tufts and MIT and serves on the boards of Save the Children and the Latino Community Foundation.
Kroll Bond Rating Agency; Federal Retirement Thrift Investment
HCAP Partners; Simplified E Solutions; Gondola Skate; Gary Platt Manufacturing Boards
STEVEN WOLFE PEREIRA
TRICIA MONTALVO
Board Member
Salsify
Salsify Boards
Age: 51
San Francisco, CA
Nationality:
Tricia Montalvo Timm is a first-generation Latina who broke barriers in Silicon Valley, becoming one of the few Latinas to achieve the C-suite, boardroom, and venture capital success. She played a pivotal role in the $2.6B sale of Looker to Google and now serves on the board of Salsify. A bestselling author and advocate for diversity, Tricia inspires others to embrace their identity and achieve workplace success. She invests in and mentors female-founded companies.
Age: 52 Miami, FL
Nationality:
William M. Velez is a 4X CIO with 27+ years of experience driving digital transformations, cybersecurity, and compliance in highly regulated sectors. Renowned for "speaking human," he has led enterprises with 10,000+ employees across the U.S., Puerto Rico, and Latin America. A dedicated advisor and former President of the South Florida CIO Council, he champions STEM scholarships and brings a global perspective to strategy, risk management, and technology leadership.
Yolanda Tálamo is an accomplished HR executive with over 25 years of global experience in both developed and emerging markets. Currently Chief People Officer at Heineken, she leads efforts to unlock the full potential of the organization through talent development, diversity, and inclusion. Previously, she held leadership roles at SAB Miller, Cisneros, and P&G. Yolanda is renowned for building high-performance teams and fostering cultural integration across multinational organizations.
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Yonesy Núñez is the Managing Director and Chief Information Security Officer at DTCC, leading Information Security and Technology Risk Management while driving technological modernization and cybersecurity efforts. Previously, he was CISO at Jack Henry & Associates and held roles at Wells Fargo, Citi, and PwC. He is President Emeritus of InfraGard Long Island and serves on multiple boards, including Pentegra Retirement Services. Yonesy holds a Doctorate in Computing from Pace University and was named one of the Top 100 Most Influential Hispanic Leaders in Technology.
Yosbel Ibarra is the Co-Managing Shareholder of Greenberg Traurig’s Miami office and a recognized expert in international corporate transactions. With over 20 years of experience, he advises multinational corporations, Latin American investors, and family offices on investments, acquisitions, joint ventures, and governance. A Cuban immigrant and DEI advocate, Yosbel is known for promoting diversity in the legal profession and supporting community organizations in Miami.
WILLIAM VELEZ
DolEx Dollar Express, Inc. Boards
YOLANDA TALAMO
YOSBEL IBARRA
BY FRANCISCO ARIAS
AN EVENING OF ELEGANCE: THE STILL AUSTIN TANAGER CIGAR BLEND RELEASE
On the evening of December 3rd, at the intimate Algiers Club, cigar aficionados and whiskey enthusiasts gathered for an event unlike any other. The occasion? The highly anticipated launch of Still Austin’s latest masterpiece, The Tanager Cigar Blend. As a certified cigar sommelier and passionate advocate of exceptional craftsmanship, I was honored to curate the cigar pairings for this exclusive evening, blending the finest in premium cigars with Texas’ emerging legacy in spirits.
The atmosphere at The Algiers Club, carefully created by owner Tucker McCormack, was warm and inviting, a space that embodied the very essence of the evening. Guests were welcomed with expertly crafted cocktails designed to highlight The Tanager’s bold yet nuanced profile. This ultra-premium bourbon whiskey, bottled at 750ML, 53% ABV (106 proof), is a delicate blend of red, white, and blue corn bourbon distilled entirely from Texas-grown grains. Aged for five years in the turbulent Central Texas climate, the spirit is meticulously balanced through ancient techniques such as slow water reduction and Petites Eaux. Retailing at $149.99, The Tanager Cigar Blend is a remarkably unique bourbon that marries heritage with creative innovation. The whiskey itself is a revelation: its rich, smoky undertones intertwine with a velvety smoothness, creating a complex and luxurious experience.
It’s a spirit designed to linger, to savor, and to pair. For this pairing, I selected the Arturo Fuente Rosado Sun Grown Magnum R Vitola 56 Box Pressed, a cigar as distinguished as the whiskey it accompanied. Its silky Ecuadorian Habano wrapper envelops medium-to-full-bodied Dominican binder and filler tobaccos, delivering a balanced profile of creamy spice, toasted cedar, and a hint of sweetness. This cigar, celebrated as one of the Top 10 Cigars of the Year, paired seamlessly with the Tanager’s robust character. Together, they created an indulgent sensory experience, a harmony of rich textures, smoky layers, and refined complexity. The pairing elevated both the cigar and the whiskey into a shared masterpiece. The Tanager Cigar Blend’s
Francisco Arias
Certified Cigar Sommelier
rich and complex nose, with notes of dense fruitcake, dried apricot, honey-candied almonds, and hazelnut liqueur, mirrored the cigar’s creamy spice and subtle sweetness. On the palate, the bourbon’s unctuous flavors of fig pudding with brandy butter, almond torte, and black truffles aligned beautifully with the cigar’s roasted coffee, earthy leather, and caramelized nuts. The bourbon’s rancio complexity found its perfect match in the cigar’s subtle spice and soft red pepper. Finally, the whiskey’s extremely long, oily finish, with poached pears, candied dates, and brown butter, lingered alongside the cigar’s notes of cedar, creamy tobacco, and sweet nuttiness. Throughout the evening, members of the Still Austin team shared the inspiration behind The Tanager Cigar Blend, illustrating the labor of love poured into its creation. This limited-edition release, available exclusively at the Still Austin Distillery in Austin, Texas, and select retailers is a testament to the distillery’s commitment to blending tradition with innovation. Priced at $149.99, it embodies the spirit of creativity and the rich heritage of Texas craftsmanship.
Excellent Cabernet Sauvignon that opens with notes of redcurrant, cherry and blueberries on the nose. On the palate it shows balance, structure and firm tannins, surrounded by notes of prunes, cocoa powder and dried figs. It is a wine that is very harmonious, dense and with certain floral touches. It shows some earthy-minty notes towards the end. It is a great wine to drink with a good cut of meat. Honestly delicious.
Alta Vista Malbec "Alizarine" 2019
Las Compuertas
Ruby red with notes of ripe red fruit, blueberry jam and spices. Big body and good balance, with more succulent notes; red candy, currant and a structure showing great harmony. This is a delicious Malbec, typical expression of the Las Compuertas vineyard, which also usually produces wines that show spices and vanilla notes. This is a wine to be enjoyed with cheeses and charcuterie or with a juicy charcoal “churrasco”.
Clos Saint Michel, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, 2017
The elegance and finesse of Grenache, (with perhaps something of Mourvedre and Syrah) reveals itself from the first nose, followed by aromas of cigar box, currant and roasted coffee. It is well balanced, round and polished, which increases its silkiness and finesse. On the palate it is full-bodied, with ripe black fruits, forest notes, liquorice and plum. Great wine to drink with sophisticated cooking dishes, plum sauces, pasilla chiles, or roasted pork chops.
Vignai da Duline Chardonnay 2018
A great Chardonnay from the Friuli region in the Veneto showing delicious notes of crystallized pineapple, butter and dried apple. Medium-bodied, balanced and harmonious. Great expression of Chardonnay from northern Italy, showing mineral notes, orange marmalade and some hints of ripe banana on the palate. A succulent wine to enjoy with seafood pasta dishes or complex white fish dishes.
Château Pichon Longueville Baron 2004, Pauillac.
This wine is a legend of Bordeaux and must be opened and decanted several hours before drinking to appreciate it better. At first it is stiff on the nose for a while, but then it opens up to a discreet type of Boardeaux aromas with lots of ripe red fruit and hints of earthy and spicy, veggie notes. After fully emerging from the decanter, it becomes a daring, agile, balanced and perfectly full-bodied wine, with a silky texture and notes of coffee and cocoa powder. It is long, complex and well structured. A true experience!
Joseph Swan Vineyards
Pinot Noir 2018 Cuvée de Trois Russian River Valley
A Pinot Noir of great value, made by a lover of this varietal in California; On the nose it begins with a pleasant balance with spicy and floral notes. In the mouth it becomes more and more succulent, with silky and sweet tannins with notes of bright fruit. It is a round, medium-bodied and harmonious wine, which goes ideally with spicy dishes, exotic flavors such as oriental food, sweet sauces, but also pairs perfectly with BBQ.
In praise of building better corporate culture
We’re thrilled to celebrate Elcio R.T. Barcelos and all of this year’s honorees in Latino Leaders Magazine.
As an experienced senior executive, Elcio has provided longstanding leadership in human resources for numerous high-profile corporations and institutions, driving community support and employee services for a significant number of people each year. Since 2020, he has served as senior executive vice president and chief human resources officer at U.S. Bank. His efforts bolster the bank’s culture of growth and collaboration while building stronger services, products and experiences for our clients.
Whether it’s within the company or outside of it, Elcio strives to build brighter futures for others. He serves as a board member of Concordance, a nonprofit partner of U.S. Bank whose mission is to reduce reincarceration rates by providing re-entry support and services to individuals at risk.
U.S. Bank is proud to congratulate Elcio for this recognition and his ongoing valuable contributions.
ELCIO R.T. BARCELOS Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer
