SomosVC Appoints José Piñero as Executive Director to Expand Latino Representation in Venture Capital

The appointment of José Piñero as Executive Director of SomosVC marks a significant step in addressing the persistent underrepresentation of Latino professionals in venture capital. Piñero brings more than 20 years of experience in business leadership, nonprofit governance, and Latino empowerment to the organization, which focuses on expanding representation for Latino professionals and allies in the venture capital industry.

In his new role, Piñero will concentrate on broadening opportunities for Latino and allied talent in venture capital, strengthening partnerships with venture firms, corporations, and foundations, and growing the organization's reach through scalable programs, heightened visibility, and advocacy. This leadership transition comes at a time when diversity in venture capital remains a critical industry challenge, with Latino representation particularly low across the sector.

Joanna Lichter, Board President of SomosVC, emphasized the significance of this appointment, stating that Piñero brings a proven track record in fundraising, organizational leadership, and board governance. His national reputation as an advocate for Latino professionals and his vision are expected 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 Microsoft and Procter & Gamble, complemented by extensive nonprofit experience. His previous role as board chair of Hopelink, the largest community services nonprofit in Seattle's Eastside, included co-leading a multi-million dollar capital campaign. He has also served on the boards of Global Partnerships and the International Coaching Federation Foundation, demonstrating his commitment to both corporate excellence and social impact.

Nationally recognized as the Top Coach for Latinos and creator of the Latino Career Test™, Piñero brings specialized expertise in Latino professional development to his new position. His appointment signals SomosVC's commitment to scaling its impact in the venture capital ecosystem through strategic leadership and proven methodologies.

Piñero expressed his commitment to the organization's mission, noting that SomosVC is uniquely positioned as the premier VC pipeline and ecosystem builder for Latino professionals and allies. The organization combines talent development, data-driven thought leadership, and convening power to create systemic change in an industry where diversity remains a pressing concern.

SomosVC operates as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization focused on unlocking opportunities for Latino professionals and allies in venture capital. The organization runs several key programs including fellowship and mentorship programs, Avanza Summit, Eleva, Emerging Manager Showcase, and Annual Summit. These initiatives develop talent pipelines, elevate emerging managers, and convene stakeholders to reshape the VC ecosystem. Additional information about the organization's work can be found at https://www.somos.vc.

The organization is also recognized for its data-driven thought leadership, including its flagship impact report. With a mission to build the next generation of innovators, investors, and leaders for Latino professionals and allies, SomosVC partners with venture firms, corporations, financial institutions, law firms, family offices, and philanthropic organizations to deliver measurable ecosystem ROI and long-term impact. This partnership approach ensures that the organization's work creates sustainable change across multiple sectors of the investment community.