JPMorgan Chase’s Brandon Nelson

Talks Banking and Community Impact

When Brandon Nelson came to Columbus in 2021, he was ready to make a difference in his new community. Today, in addition to his day job as an Executive Director managing a team of bankers that serve middle market clients in central and south Ohio, he serves on the board of the Columbus Urban League, Columbus Chamber of Commerce and partners with local Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to drive change, champion opportunity and address inequities that have disproportionately impacted minority communities.

We sat down with him to learn more about his work and how he is using his job to influence and impact the community for good.

Q: What attracted you to JPMorgan Chase?

A: I was initially attracted to JPMorgan Chase because it’s the largest bank in the country and they place a huge emphasis on treasury and technology. To me, this was a true differentiator. I also appreciated their focus on diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), including numerous initiatives for employees. Starting at the top, they continually think about what more can be done to make a lasting impact in the communities we serve.

Q: Are there ways your own work has community impact?

A: I have the opportunity to lead a team that impacts our communities by supporting local businesses through good and challenging times. Providing customized JPMorgan Chase banking solutions, we facilitate our clients’ maximal operational efficiencies, support growth and expansion and help protect them against threats such as fraud. As an executive on the Commercial Banking Team and Market Leadership Team, I am also active in the community through non-profit board involvement, philanthropic support, community service and any other opportunity that allows me to drive growth and support a stronger, more inclusive economy.

Q: How are you working with local Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and why is partnering with them important?

A: I’m the firmwide ambassador to Central State University and

Wilberforce University. I support these schools by informing students of opportunities at the bank, including internships and post-graduate career opportunities; providing career advice and interviewing tips; and exposing students to existing diverse talent at the bank. HBCUs have been an anchor in the Black community for quite some time. Partnering with them is not only important because it aids in breaking down systemic barriers, but also because I believe in what they do and how they can impact generations to come.