The gap between Hispanic representation and development presented an opportunity to the National Hispanic Corporate Council and Southern Methodist University (SMU) Cox School of Business.
by Site Staff
November 19, 2012
SMU COX SCHOOL OF BUSINESS
Hispanics are the largest minority group in America. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 15 percent of the U.S. population is Hispanic, and that will grow to 30 percent by 2050. But although Hispanics will account for almost 70 percent of workforce growth this decade, they make up only 3 to 4 percent of executives in Fortune 500 and public companies. This gap between Hispanic representation and development presented a challenge and opportunity to the National Hispanic Corporate Council and Southern Methodist University (SMU) Cox School of Business.
The two organizations created an executive development experience for high-potential, mid-level Hispanic managers in Fortune 1000 companies to prepare them for success at high levels. Delivered in three phases over nine months at the SMU Cox campus, the program includes classroom instruction, workplace application and community engagement, provides participants with knowledge, skills and tools to accelerate their progress and equips them to lead in achieving superior business results.
By giving participants tools to address leadership development without losing cultural authenticity, the program expands the number of talented Hispanic managers in the executive development pipeline. More than half of the participants in the first two program offerings have had the opportunity to be considered and selected for positions of higher responsibility and lateral moves.