Hispanics in the American Corporate Business World

Regardless of Hispanics’ significant economic presence in the U.S., as a group they are underrepresented in leadership positions in American business organizations.  When executives meet to manage their businesses, Hispanics with a seat at the table often recognize that they are the only one of their group in the room.  The absence of Hispanics in the boardrooms of American corporations may be because many lack the economic means to attend college and graduate programs to earn appropriate educational credentials for executive positions.  They also must deal with ethnic bias and misconceptions about Hispanics that make working together difficult.  And, Latinas have the added burden of corporate glass ceilings that limit the promotion of female employees.  

Despite these obstacles, the number of Hispanics who have achieved great success in the business world is on the rise.   However, their accomplishments frequently are not recognized by members of the Hispanic community.  What follows are stories of successful Latina and Latino corporate executives.  These individuals have not only made names for themselves and brought credit for their employers, but also are notable for their contributions to other important institutions that are the foundation of American society.  Please note, however, that these individuals represent only a small sample of Hispanics who have had successful careers in the American corporate world.