SomosVC Appoints José Piñero as Executive Director to Advance Latino/a Representation in Venture Capital

SomosVC has announced the appointment of José Piñero as Executive Director, effective immediately. Piñero brings more than 20 years of experience in business leadership, nonprofit governance, and Latino/a empowerment to his new role at the organization dedicated to advancing representation in venture capital.

In his position as Executive Director, Piñero will focus on broadening opportunities for Latino/a and allied talent in venture capital, strengthening partnerships with venture firms, corporations, and foundations, and growing the organization's reach and impact through scalable programs, heightened visibility, and advocacy. His appointment comes at a critical time for diversity and inclusion efforts within the venture capital industry, where Latino/a representation remains significantly underrepresented despite growing recognition of the business value of diverse perspectives.

Joanna Lichter, Board President of SomosVC, expressed confidence in Piñero's leadership capabilities, noting his proven track record in fundraising, organizational leadership, and board governance. Lichter emphasized that Piñero's vision will enable SomosVC to strengthen the VC talent pipeline, elevate emerging managers, and deliver measurable impact for partners and the broader ecosystem.

Piñero's professional background includes senior leadership positions at major corporations including Microsoft and Procter & Gamble, as well as significant nonprofit experience. He previously chaired the board of Hopelink, the largest community services nonprofit in Seattle's Eastside, where he co-led a multi-million dollar capital campaign. His board service extends to Global Partnerships and the International Coaching Federation Foundation, and he is nationally recognized as the "Top Coach for Latinos" and creator of the Latino Career Test™.

"I am honored to join SomosVC at such a critical moment for Latino/a and allied leadership in venture capital," Piñero stated. He described SomosVC as uniquely positioned as the premier VC pipeline and ecosystem builder for Latino/as and allies, combining talent development, data-driven thought leadership, and convening power. Piñero committed to working with the board, staff, and partners to expand opportunities for Latino/a and allied talent, strengthen the ecosystem, and build an institution that funders, corporations, and VCs will proudly continue to support.

SomosVC operates as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization focused on unlocking opportunities for Latino/as and allies in venture capital and developing a community that leaves a lasting impact on the ecosystem. The organization's comprehensive approach includes fellowship and mentorship programs, Avanza Summit, Eleva, Emerging Manager Showcase, and Annual Summit events that develop talent pipelines, elevate emerging managers, and convene stakeholders to reshape the VC landscape. Additional information about the organization's mission and programs is available at https://www.somos.vc.

The appointment signals SomosVC's commitment to accelerating its impact during a period of increased focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion within the investment community. As venture capital continues to drive innovation and economic growth, the development of diverse talent pipelines becomes increasingly crucial for identifying untapped opportunities and bringing varied perspectives to investment decisions. Piñero's leadership is expected to strengthen the organization's position as a key player in transforming the venture capital ecosystem through measurable ecosystem ROI and long-term impact.