Bio

1.8 billion people are left out of, or poorly served by, the global financial system. Our uneven recovery from the pandemic and persistent economic instability threatens their livelihoods. But digital technology has the power to help these people access the tools they need to recover, grow, and build resilience. Data analytics, mobile phones, the Internet, cloud computing, and other technologies are changing every aspect of financial services — and can fundamentally transform the way we serve those who have historically been left out. With more than thirty years’ experience working in international banking, management, and public service, I know how transformational inclusive financial services can be. They allow us to manage our day-to-day lives, seize opportunities, and cope with crises. They spur social and economic progress and build a safer, more equitable world. Accion is a very special organization: we harness the capital markets to support entrepreneurs who are creating successful businesses, helping them solve intractable global problems. Since 1961, we’ve helped build more than 200 inclusive financial service providers in 63 countries that serve tens of millions of people and small businesses. I joined Accion’s Board of Directors in 2007 and became President and CEO in 2009. Before joining Accion, I managed Citi’s network of 100 chief country officers as President of Citigroup’s International Franchise Management. Before that, I ran Citi’s communications, philanthropy, government relations, branding, and human resources. I served as Chief of Staff at the US Securities and Exchange Commission in the Clinton Administration and in New York’s City Hall in the Dinkins and Koch Administrations. My career started in investment banking. Outside of Accion, from 2014 to 2021 I served as Chairman of the New York City Economic Development Corporation, which encourages economic growth throughout New York City’s five boroughs and facilitates investments that build capacity, prosperity, and economic vibrancy. I’m very fortunate to do this work, and to help provide people around the world with the tools they need to build better lives.