The 2017 Corporate and Board Edition

TOP REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONALS Our research of the top names in this practice

The 2017 Corporate & Board e d i t i o n

More than 100 Latino directors recognized In Partnership with Korn Ferry International

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

JORGE PEREZ

THE MAN WHO CHANGED THE SKYLINE OF MIAMI

September / October 2017 Vol. 18 No. 5

www.latinoleaders.com

HITEC 100

The official announcement of the most important Hispanic Technology Executives in 2017

Hispanic Leaders and Initiatives

L AT INO LE A DE R S

Contents September / October 2017

24- BOARDS EDITION A thorough look at one of the most respected titles in Corporate America: Board member. In partnership with Korn Ferry, Latino Leaders bring you the top 120 Latinos on Boards, the 4 most influential board members, and the upcoming top Latino candidates. Get to know what is going on behind the glass door.

7- COMERICA CORNER- Leading business hero and client of Comerica, Luis Spinola- President and CEO of Azteca Omega Group, talks his business venture and maintaining a fruitful relationship with Comerica Bank.

10- CTCA- The No Esperes campaign, a collaborative PSA effort from CTCA and the USHCC, urges Latinos to get screened. Prevention is key.

12- PRUDENTIAL- Get to know Dorinda Walker, Vice President of Consumer Strategy and Key Initiatives for Multicultural Marketing at Prudential’s U.S. Businesses.

She talks serious about the lack of financial literacy in the Latino community.

14- HITEC- The HITEC 100 list revealed! Also, interviews with Marcela Alava, CIO at Monarch Landscaping Companies, named as one of HITEC’s 100, and Cimi Thomas, mentee of, also HITEC 100, Rodolfo Dominguez of Mercedes Benz Financial Services.

20- NFL- Each year, NFL participates in the celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. We chatted with one of the greatest football player, Anthony Munoz, about the work of his foundation with the youth. We also feature the recipients of the NFL Hispanic Heritage Leadership Award, highlighting the contribution of Hispanic leaders in each NFL market.

2 • September / October 2017

62- REAL ESTATE- The Top Latinos Real Estate agents in the country. Each agent has lead their city in community service, achievements, percentage of Latino clients.

We also feature the Latino billionaire and real estate developer, Jorge Perez. As one of the most important and influential, he has been able to provide the community with leadership inside and outside of the real estate industry. We also feature NAHREP’s President Leo Pareja. His story and how he escalated the ranks in real estate is one to know of.

70- SPOTLIGHT- We introduce BARU PR Founder and CEO, Elizabeth Barrutia. This Latina leads the multicultural marketing and public relations industry.

Her experience, accomplishments, and work ethic continue to give Elizabeth success after success.

IN EVERY EDITON: 4- Publisher’s Letter 6- Editor’s Letter 8- Co-Editor’s Letter 72- Cellar

JORGE & RAUL FERRAEZ / PRESIDENTS OF FERRAEZ USA

FROM THE DESK OF THE PUBLISHER

T

There’s nothing better than the perception that you are evolving. And this is precisely what we feel with our new Corporate and Boards Edition 2017.

For many years, we worked with our good friend and collaborator Pablo Schneider and his staff. Pablo’s knowledge and network are impressive and gave the edition a very good sense of current affairs. He also worked extensively in building a list of potential candidates for Boards, that was a true value for Corporations in search of potential Board members. Pablo did a great job and taught us very much about this field.

This year, we have taken another direction, mostly because we felt that our approach in the past was just “preaching to the choir” and the impact of the message was not being as effective as we wanted. So we changed the content of the feature to focus more on the real value of Board Service, the evolution of Board Service and the Latinos making a difference on that. With that in mind, we looked to someone who could give us a general perspective of both sides: the Board member and the Corporation. We decided to invite Korn Ferry International, through our good friend, Maestro Awardee and well-known Diversity figure Victor Arias Jr. Along with Bob Halligan, who directs the Board Practice at Korn Ferry, Victor and his colleagues worked passionately to provide information, quotes, lists and advisory for us to build the content of this feature. Like previous editions, there’s a list of current Latinos serving on Boards, and also a list of Candidates that could fit in this position very well. But aside from that, this edition is filled with interviews, profiles, and data that would help us understand the great challenges that Board Practice has today and for the future, well beyond just adding diversity and being more inclusive. Our deepest appreciation for Victor Arias and Korn Ferry International for their confidence and collaboration in this edition.

Along with the Boards, we also have the premiere of the HiTEC 100 List (Hispanic Executive IT Council) directed by great leader Andre Arbelaez, an unveiling of this year’s most relevant Latinos is Hi-Tech. It is a great privilege for Latino Leaders to be able to recognize them and announce them first hand.

We also have our very first list of the Top Latino Real Estate Professionals nationwide. This list was based on our own research, consulting sources like the NAHREP (National Association of Latino Real Estate Professionals) lists of top agents and a nomination process we conducted for months. The result is a great snapshot of those Latinos leading in this business and the Companies working with them.

Everybody knows that the Latino Community has been a driving force for this market for quite some years now.

Publisher Jorge Ferraez

President and CEO Raul Ferraez

Director of Journalism Mariana Gutierrez Briones mariana@latinoleaders.com Administrative Director Lawrence Teodoro Editor Sarai Vega svega@latinoleaders.com Business Development Manager Cristina Gonzalez cristina@latinoleaders.com Washington, D.C. Sales Associate and Representative Deyanira Ferraez dferraez@latinoleaders.com Karla Espinoza kespinoza@latinoleaders.com Art Director Fernando Izquierdo ferdiseno@latinoleaders.com Editorial Art & Design Rodrigo Valderrama Carlos Cuevas Luis Enrique González Moisés Cervantes Oswaldo Bernal Guerrero Human Resources Manager Susana Sanchez Administration and Bookkeeping Claudia García Bejarano Executive Assistant to the Publishers Liliana Morales Social Media Manager and Graphic Designer Kenzie Tysl kenzie@latinoleaders.com For advertising inquiries, please call 214-206-4966 x 227.

Latino Leaders: The National Magazine of the Successful American Latino (ISSN 1529-3998) is published seven times annually by Ferraez Publications of America Corp., 15443 Knoll Trail, Suite 210, 75248 Dallas, TX, USA, September / October 2017. Subscription rates: In U.S. and possessions, one year $15.00. Checks payable to Ferraez Publications of America, 15443 Knoll Trail, Suite 210, 75248 Dallas, TX, USA. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Latino Leaders, 15443 Knoll Trail, Suite 210, 75248 Dallas, TX, USA.© 2001 by Ferraez Publications of America Corporation. All rights reserved. No part of this periodical may be reproduced without the consent of Latino Leaders: The National Magazine of the Successful American Latino. The periodical’s name and logo, and the various titles and headings therein, are trademarks of Ferraez Publications of America Corp.

Another great edition we’re proud to bring to you!

Jorge & Raul Ferraez

Member of The National Association of Hispanic Publications

Audited by Member of Reg. # 283/01

MEMBER OF SRDS

4 • September / October 2017

Latino Leaders The National Magazine of the Successful American Latino 15443 Knoll Trail, Suite 210, 75248 Dallas, TX, USA Phone: (214) 206-4966 / Fax: (214) 206-4970

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR

H

Hello readers!

If you thought last edition was great, get ready for this edition! Our team has done an incredible job of bringing together a broad outlook of Board service. Latino Leaders has partnered up with Korn Ferry, and with their advice, knowledge, and input we have put together the List of the Most Relevant Latinos in Board Service. We also got to chat with Top Influential Latinos on Boards. Outside our Board edition, we have included the list of the Top Latino Real Estate Professionals. With the help of NAHREP, we were able to compile a thorough list of them all. As part of our partnership with HITEC, we have the reveal of the HITEC 100. These are the top Latinos in technology. They have all been carefully chosen and selected by HITEC to represent Latinos in the tech industry.

As part of Hispanic Heritage Month, Latino Leaders also partnered up with NFL to bring you the story of Anthony Munoz, who through his foundation has created programs for the youth. We also feature the recipients of the NFL Hispanic Heritage Leadership Awards. They have been Latinos who have used their platforms and titles to benefit their community.

This edition has been such a learning experience for myself! I hope you enjoy reading this edition as much I have enjoyed learning so much from all our leaders!

Sarai Vega Editor

6 • July / August 2017

LETTER FROM THE CO-EDITOR As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage we are very proud of the new partnerships that have allowed us to continue to explore our identity as Latinos and our contributions to the country we now call home.

This year, we launched a partnership with the NFL and their Hispanic Heritage Leadership Award program, which donates grants to business leaders across the country whose leadership, dedication and love for the community reflect the NFL values. We are also proud to include in this edition an interview with NFL Hall of Famer Anthony Munoz, who through his foundation is working to leave a long-lasting impact on the younger generations. “The greatest thing about the Latino community is the work ethic, but also just believing that anything can be achieved. We dream big,” he shares in an inspiring account of how his love of the game was transformed into programs aimed at developing healthy habits and a leader mindset.

Our Boards feature is also a wonderful testament of the strides made in recent years. It is key that we highlight these leaders, and that is why we are so grateful to those corporations who invested in this edition – not only are they celebrating their Hispanic directors and their contributions as they help shape their direction, but by supporting a platform that is committed to diversity and the development of new leaders they also allow us to inspire a new generation of potential partners and collaborators – and we thank them for allowing us to continue to do our work.

This year we are especially grateful to BNY Mellon, a new partner who is genuinely invested in sharing the stories of their Latino Leaders, making a powerful statement of their commitment to our communities.

In March, we featured an interview with Rodolfo Dominguez, VP of Business Transformation and Chief Digital Officer of Mercedes Benz Financial Services USA and one of the country’s 100 most influential leaders in tech – “I have been very fortunate to have had many people help me throughout my career. It is my turn to leverage my experience and resources and pay it forward.”, he shared then. We are very proud to feature in this edition an interview with Cimi Thomas, IT Lead for Client Services Systems and one of Rodolfo’s mentees: “He has taught me how to be my genuine self.

He has taught me how I can be a great leader just by being authentic and, in doing so, he has helped me tap into my own potential.”, Cimi concludes in our follow up to that first conversation. We believe that it is through these relationships that we can all be elevated and inspired and we hope our story will awaken on other leaders the passion to mentor.

We are also very proud to share Monarch Landscape’s Marcela Alava’s commitment to providing opportunities for those who are interested in a STEM career. Throughout our upcoming issues, we will continue to address the possibilities for Latinos in an industry that is leading the way to the future.

Finally, we present for the first time an interview with Dorinda Walker, Prudential Financial’s VP of consumer strategy, key initiatives, and multicultural marketing because it all begins with the resources to pursue our dreams. “I have a passion for helping to ensure that women and multicultural consumers are educated and provided with access and resources to accumulate wealth and leave a legacy” is how she describes her love for her work.

We thank all of these leaders for sharing their expertise and our partners and supporters for securing a platform for their voices to be heard.

Mariana Gutierrez Briones Co-Editor

8 • September / October 2017

Board Member and Visionary Arcilia Acosta Story by: Kristian

B

uzz words like “inclusion” and “diversity” have become en vogue across market sectors, yet women continue to be distinct minorities when serving as CEOs or prominent board members.

Data from a 2017 study sponsored by The Rockefeller Foundation and Global Strategy Group corroborates that only six percent of CEOs in Fortune 500 Companies are women. While the study takes into account numerous factors as to why, the bottom line centers on a disparity in leadership roles.

For Arcilia Acosta, CEO of CARCON Industries & Construction, and STL Engineers, the road to serving on numerous Fortune 500 corporate boards started when preparedness and opportunity converged.

“It’s humbling to know that I am a part of decisions that affect thousands and even millions of people,” explained Acosta. “Because these decisions are so important, I am constantly expanding my knowledge base about the latest issues facing corporate America today such as cyber security trends, SEC rules, the EPA, corporate compensation, governance, and overall economic trends.”

Achieving the greatest good for the greatest amount of people is not always a clear path. With so many competing interests, corporate utilitarianism is nothing short of seeing a complete picture.

For business magnates like Acosta, successfully leading companies as CEO or as a board member involves finding a balance in oneself as it does

Jaime

staying ahead of the curve. The breakneck speed of modern business, especially the lucrative oil and energy sectors, demands asking the best minds for the best determinations.

Then, it requires reflection.

“When I recognize the complexities of an issue, I look to our experts and consultants and welcome further one-on-one discussion of the pros and cons,” continued Acosta. “Although it takes more effort, I take the time for quiet reflection while weighing through a 480 page deck of pertinent information!

Collectively, I make decisions based on these and other important factors. All the while balancing the other aspects of my day including meeting with our companies’ leadership teams and sending my boys in college a daily hello.”

With the growing demand for both equitable and profitable energy solutions, the stakes for corporate boards are even higher. For that reason, decisions that start with a board vote quickly ripple across the nation and potentially the globe.

For Acosta, that translates into serving on boards for very influential industries such as finance, banking and energy and power generation, and oil and gas. At hand are often convoluted quandaries like nuclear power, gas prices, coal mining, unions and the EPA to name a few. More often than not, questions surrounding interest rates, oil prices, risk assessments and corporate strategy and growth are not far behind.

With a growing number of women joining the ranks of board members and even CEOs, the question of women having the experience for strong leadership positions has been answered.

The anatomy of a sound decision is rooted in various factors. Yet, at its core, the principle of a vote outweighs the indignation of any single voter. The only real standard, in the end, is sound judgment and empirically based deliverables.

For many companies, progressive and inclusive policies stem from the top.

For that reason, Acosta offers a unique perspective to those aspiring to attain a balance as a CEO and as a Fortune 500 board member.

“I’m passionate about sharing my experiences and providing guidance on key steps for board service. I’m very fortunate that the [boards on which I serve] value my opinion and they too, see it as value-added to have me on the board,” Acosta continued.

With so much riding on a boards reflective of all employees, women in leadership roles seem all the more vital.

“You really have to understand what your connection is to the industry of the boards you serve on. You start there,” concluded Acosta. “I believe that what makes me attractive to corporations is my background in finance and my 20 plus years as the sole owner and CEO of two companies.” latinoleaders.com

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Jumping the Corporate Divide

CANCER TREATMENT CENTERS OF AMERICA® For more information, visit www.cancercenter.com

¡NO ESPERES!

NEW PSA CAMPAIGN CONTRIBUTES TO THE WELLNESS OF LATINOS Story by: Judi Jordan

UNITED STATES HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND CANCER TREATMENT CENTERS OF AMERICA® JOIN FORCES FOR EARLY CANCER DETECTION CANCER IS A TOPIC that many superstitiously avoid discussing for fear of “attracting” it, and has long been a taboo topic in the Latino community. While mammograms, prostate exams and colonoscopies are not usually dinner table conversation, the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (USHCC) has joined forces with the Hispanic Advisory Council (HAC) of Cancer Treatment Centers of America® (CTCA) to launch the ¡No Esperes! campaign during Hispanic Heritage Month.

This initiative is designed to raise awareness among Latinos of the realities of cancer mortality rates, the importance of having those uncomfortable conversations and the potentially life-saving value of early detection and screening.

The harsh reality is that cancer accounts for 22% of deaths in the Latino population and 25% of those deaths occur in patients under 50. In fact, it is the number one killer of Latinos in the US. Cynthia Lynch, MD, medical oncologist at CTCA® , urges Latinos to take control of their health: “Don’t be afraid of cancer. Be diligent.

Get screened. Testing is available. Get regular screenings now, so it never becomes a problem.”

Dr. Lynch has a wealth of firsthand experience.

“There’s nothing worse than seeing someone die of cancer that could have easily been treated if it was caught early,” she says. This spike will not subside until Latinos understand that prevention is the actual “secret.” Dr. Lynch is adamant about 10 • September / October 2017

Cynthia Lynch, MD, CTCA medical oncologist

the power of prevention: “You can really make an impact with regular screenings. Make time to see your doctor yearly. Don’t wait until you have symptoms. By the time you sense something is wrong, it can already be spreading.”

While cancer can be devious, it does provide silent clues. Prevention research has advanced so that regular screenings and checkups can detect even the smallest signals. Screenings are “pre-insurance” for your body and mind.

Dr. Lynch recognizes the anxiety of patients, however: “Screenings make people nervous, but if you find something at a screening, it’s likely going to be at a very early stage, and likely treatable. You don’t need to have a family history of cancer to be at risk, so regular screenings can really make an impact.” She adds, “It’s really being willing to reach out; primary care doctors have a lot of resources.” For those with noticeable symptoms, Dr. Lynch is still encouraging.

“Should the cancer progress, there are new targeted therapies available,” she explains.

Javier Palomarez, president and CEO of the USHCC and member of the HAC, is also committed to raising awareness in Latino cancer prevention. “If something feels wrong, go seek medical help early. Don’t be shy and don’t try to be ‘brave’ by ‘toughing it out,’” he cautions. “Cancer is the leading cause of death among Hispanics, making it

a clear priority that our community needs to address. We know that 1 in 3 Hispanic women and 1 in 3 Hispanic men will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. We need to take more preventative measures when it comes to our health. Culturally, we are less likely to proactively visit a physician until we are experiencing severe symptoms and often, it is too late,” says Palomarez.

Each type of cancer is associated with different symptoms. With such a fatal disease, prevention is key. A simple checkup might save your life. The ¡No Esperes! campaign seeks to create a sense of urgency among Latinos.

According to Palomarez, “the ultimate goal is to bring about a paradigm shift in the community, removing any remaining stigma that incorrectly correlates putting off seeking medical attention to a perception of strength and stoicism.”

DON’T WAIT. ¡NO ESPERES! Busy?

Make time for your health.

Prevention is your best option. There are HPV vaccines, yearly mammograms after 40, yearly pap smears after 21, colonoscopy exams after 50 and prostate screenings after 50. Primary care doctors have a wealth of resources and there are free mammograms and cancer screenings available through many community programs.

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“I HAVE A PASSION FOR HELPING TO ENSURE THAT WOMEN AND MULTICULTURAL CONSUMERS ARE EDUCATED AND PROVIDED WITH ACCESS AND RESOURCES TO ACCUMULATE WEALTH AND LEAVE A LEGACY”

Planning for the Future

D

orinda Walker has had people tell her they have planned for the future and bought life insurance.

She’s had people tell her they’ve created a trust for their grandchildren’s college fund or invested in their retirement, and for Walker, those conversations are the most rewarding part of her job.

“These things are what it’s all about for me,” Walker said. “It’s about helping consumers achieve the American dream by having financial security and peace.

“I have a passion for helping to ensure that women and multicultural consumers are educated and provided with access and resources to accumulate wealth and leave a legacy,” she said.

Walker started as a temporary employee nearly 20 years ago before climbing to her role as the vice president of consumer strategy, key initiatives, and multicultural marketing at Prudential Financial, Inc. In her position, she helps U.S.-based businesses engage with women and diverse consumers, such as Latinos.

12 • September / October 2017

Story by: Amanda Casanova

“The Latino community is a strong family and values culture,” she said. “Yet it is still underserved when it comes to important financial solutions that protect family and legacy of loved ones.”

A 2014 Prudential research study found that more than half of the Hispanics surveyed said they had a “poor” or “very poor” understanding of workplace-based retirement plans and Social Security. The Hispanic American Financial Experience study also showed that Hispanics have less access to workplace retirement plans than the general population.

“The top reasons for not contributing to workplace retirement were other financial priorities, such as paying down debt, the perception that there was enough income to save, and not tying up their money in case they need it,” she said.

But financial planning should be a priority, Walker said, and that’s why Prudential is hoping to reach more Hispanics by partnering with Latino professionals and events, such as Hispanicize, an annual gathering of Latino journalists and bloggers.

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“The number one solution we’re working to address is providing greater access and engagement,” she said. “Our collaboration with Hispanicize, Hispanic Federation and other key influencers and community-based organizations who serve the Latino community help us to drive deeper engagement and awareness about Prudential and our financial services and solutions.”

Walker said that teaching Latinos about financial planning should lead to more investments in their future.

“I hope to see more Latino consumers gain a deeper understanding and education about the need for life insurance and take the action to purchase it,” she said. “Life insurance is a great vehicle to ensure the transfer of wealth and leaving an inter-generational legacy.”

According to the study, only about 28 percent of Hispanics have a life insurance policy through their workplace, compared to nearly 50 percent of the general population. About 25 percent of Hispanics have purchased individual life insurance policies.

The study also showed that 20 percent of Hispanics said they did not have retirement plans, bank accounts or life insurance and only 15 percent said they were currently working with a financial adviser.

“Our strategy is simple— to provide a complete and engaging educational experience, to create a better understanding of the need for financial planning, and demonstrate the importance of working with a financial professional,” Walker said.

As part of the drive for education, Prudential also partnered with The BOSS Network and DiMe Media to educate and inspire multicultural women entrepreneurs.

“Working with DiMe and The Boss Network is fantastic,” Walker said. “It gives Prudential a way to engage with women around the country. We had discussions about entrepreneurship, women, and money, motivating moms. There were laughter, tears and great relationship building.”

The 2017 Boss Network’s Ladies that Lead Tour will finish on Oct. 26 in Newark after visiting Houston, Los Angeles, and Baltimore.

“One of the key things we learned was that women are fearful of the unknown,” Walker said. “We heard things like, ‘I’m terrified something will happen to my spouse. My kids and I won’t have the financial means to maintain our status of living.’”

And just like in the Hispanic American Financial Experience study, Walker said retirement planning wasn’t a top priority for the women because of other financial obligations.

“We also learned that retirement planning was deprioritized,” she added. “Although they have the need and desire to save more, they just haven’t been able to get started.”

Because of that “need and desire,” Walker said Prudential would keep working with other influencers and brands that specifically target Hispanics.

“I HOPE TO SEE MORE LATINO CONSUMERS GAIN A DEEPER UNDERSTANDING AND EDUCATION ABOUT THE NEED FOR LIFE INSURANCE AND TAKE THE ACTION TO PURCHASE IT,” SHE SAID. “LIFE INSURANCE IS A GREAT VEHICLE TO ENSURE THE TRANSFER OF WEALTH AND LEAVING AN INTER-GENERATIONAL LEGACY.” “We’ll continue to invest in research to better understand the financial challenges and needs of the Hispanic community,” Walker said. “We’ll make efforts to recruit Hispanic talent that understand the needs and cultural nuances of the Hispanic community.”

But it will not be a single strategy to reach out to Hispanics.

While the research shows that many Hispanics need better financial plans, Walker said connecting with those Hispanics might not have a single approach.

“Companies that want to engage the Latino community need to treat them as a diverse group that they are. They’re not a monolithic, one-size-fits-all group.”

“A marketing strategy targeting Hispanics in New York may look very different than a marketing strategy in Texas.”

For now, many Hispanics prefer family advice on finances to the advice of a professional, according to the study.

However, Walker said, a financial adviser can help Latinos build their wealth and plan for the future. Consumers can also check the background of a possible financial adviser at the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).

“Don’t try to figure it out by yourself,” she said. “Seek the services of a financial professional. There’s a tremendous value in developing goals and working with a knowledgeable professional to help you develop a comprehensive financial plan. They are trained and knowledgeable and can assist you to develop a strong financial foundation.”. latinoleaders.com

In partnership with:

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Latinos in HiTech

HiTech

100

On behalf of the Board of Directors and Members of the Hispanic IT Executive Council (HITEC), we are proud to announce the 2018 HITEC Top 100 List for the United States of America.

The list was compiled by nominations and selected by a special HITEC judging committee to select the top 100 Technology Executives of Hispanic decent operating from the USA. HITEC is the premier global executive leadership organization for senior business and IT executives who have built outstanding careers in information technology. HITEC premier network spans the Americas and is focused on building stronger technology and executive leaders, leadership teams, corporations, and role models in a rapidly changing, flatter; and the information technology centric world. These global leaders include executive leading Global 1000 corporations while others lead some of the Hispanic-owned IT firms across the Americas.

We congratulate the 2018 awardees for their hard work and ability to “Push Up and Pull Up”!

Andre Arbelaez President of HITEC

Elizabeth Agosto

Marcelo Claure

Jonathan Echeverria

Gene Alvarez

Ernest Cordova

Jorge L. Escobar

Carlos Amesquita

Francisco Cornellana Castells

Marina Escobar

Vice President BNY Mellon

MVP – CRM, CX and Digital Commerce Technologies Gartner, Inc. Chief Information Officer Gartner, Inc.

Guillermo Ardon

President & Chief Executive Officer Sprint Managing Director Accenture Federal Services

Senior Vice President & Global Chief Information Officer Revlon

Chief Applications Officer & Company Vice President Johnson & Johnson

Lilian Coral

Marcela Alava

Eduardo Cue

Chief Information Officer Monarch Landscape Companies

Leandro Balbinot

VP IT & CI - Officer North America KraftHeinz Company

Ricardo Bartra

Senior Vice President and CIO DHL Global Forwarding Americas

Eduardo Cabrera

Chief Cybersecurity Officer Trend Micro

Vince Campisi SVP, Digital & CIO United Technologies

Chief Data Officer Office of Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti SVP - Internet Software and Services Apple

Vinicius Da Costa

SVP – Enterprise Business Technology Applications Executive Bank of America

Joel De la Garza Box Security Officer Box

George DeCesare

SVP, Chief Technology Risk Officer Kaiser Permanente

Anthony Diaz

SVP – Business Technology Executive Bank of America Vice President San Jose City College

Vice President Advanced Technology Group ESPN

Josue Estrada

Senior VP of Strategy & Operations Salesforce

Nancy Faginas-Cody

SVP - IT Enterprise Business Systems The Walt Disney Company

Kevin Fernandez

SVP - Head of Business Systems Citi

Steve Fernandez

Global Chief Technology Officer L'Oreal

Henry Fleches

Chief Executive Officer United Data Technologies

Erika Flora President BEYOND20

Francisco Fraga

Timothy Campos

Accenture - Managing Director – Northeast Oracle Technology Lead Accenture

Mariely Franzetti

Julio Carbonell

Guillermo Diaz, Jr. SVP and CIO Cisco Information Technology Carlos Dominguez

Carlos Fuentes

Jose Dominguez

Isaura Gaeta

Rodolfo Dominguez

Miguel Gamino

Jose Dominguez

Michael Garcia

Chief Executive Officer Pulsera

Chief Information Officer ALPFA

Carlos Carpizo President LinkAmerica

Alfredo Casta

CEO Cascades Technologies, Inc.

Santiago Chamurro EVP, Global Connected Customer Experience General Motors

14 • September / October 2017

President and Chief Operating Officer Sprinklr Chief Information Security Officer TD Ameritrade VP - Business Transformatio & CDO Mercedes-Benz Financial Services USA LLC CISO TD Ameriatrade

Chief Information Officer Campbell Soup Company Vice President, Support Services IT Dell Technologies VP of Strategy, Architecture and Security Federal Reserve Bank of New York CSH of Business Operations Intel Corporation Chief Technology Officer City of New York VP for Development Services Fannie Mae

SVP, eCommerce Development and Emerging Technologies Domino's Pizza

Gregory Garcia

Director, Chief Information Office US Army Corps of Engineers

Noni Gonzalez VP - Global Technology Systems InterContinental Hotels Group (IHG) Robert Grillo

Vice President & CIO Florida International University

David Guzman Chief Information Officer Staples Solutions Marius Haas

CCO and President, Enterprise Solutions Dell

Yamila Harris

Director of Regional Business Enablement - Worldwide, Office of the CIO DXC Technology

Luis Hernadez

VP - Integrated Development Center Lenovo

Miriam Hernandez-Kakol

Global and U.S. Service Line Leader for Customer & Operations in Advisory KPMG LLP

Darrell Higueros Chief Executive Officer Next Generation, Inc.

Tony Jimenez

President and CEO MicroTech

Marcos Jimenez Chief Executive Officer Softtek USA

Yvette Kanouff

SVP/GM Service Provider Business Cisco Systems Inc

Carlos Lopez-Abadia

VP & General Manager Consulting DXC Technology

Pilar Manchón

Director of Cognitive Interfaces Amazon

Maria Martinez

President, Global Customer Success & Salesforce Latin America Salesforce

Cesar Martinez

André Mendes

CIO/CTO - U.S. Broadcasting Board of Governors

David Morales

Ileana Rivera

Senior Director of IT, Computing and Client Productivity Services Cisco Systems

Alan Rosa

Managing Director- State & Local Technology Cloud Advisory Services Accenture

SVP - Infrastructure and Applications Delivery Marriott International, Inc.

Sandra Morales-Herrmann

Andres Ruzo

Director, Infrastructure and Information Assurance General Dynamics

Carmen Nava

Senior VP – Premium Care AT&T

Antonio Neri

President Hewlett Packard Enterprise

Aldo Noseda

VP - Information Technology – Global Commercial Monsanto Company

Dr. Yonesy Nunez

SVP - Information Security Leader Wells Fargo

Javier Olivan

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer LinkAmerica

Enrique Salem

Managing Director Bain Capital Ventures

Lidia Santos

Director of Systems Programming UPS Information Technology

Nuria Simo

Chief Information Officer InterAmerican Development Bank

Lucia Soares

Vice President, Healthcare Technology Strategy Johnson & Johnson

Javier Soltero

Vice President, Growth Facebook

Corporate Vice President of Outlook Program Management Microsoft

Silvina Olkies

Myrna Soto

Luis Pajares

Daniel Tolosa

End User Global Support Service Senior Director Microsoft Corp Group Vice President Oracle

Eduardo Perez

SVP Payment System Risk Visa Inc.

Juan Perez

Chief Information Officer UPS

Ana Pinczuk

SVP and GM, HPE Pointnext Services Hewlett Packard Enterprise

Javier Polit

Chief Information Officer Procter & Gamble

Jeanette Prenger CEO/President ECCO Select

Laura Quintana

VP - Corporate Affairs Global Field Operations Cisco Systems, Inc.

Corporate Senior Vice President, Global Chief Information Security Officer Comcast Chief Development Officer The Coca-Cola Company, Bottling Investments Group

Pamela Torres

Legal, Compliance and Regulatory Relations Technology Executive, Senior Vice President Bank of America

Lisa Tuccio

Senior Vice President - Product and Service Management Wells Fargo

Nina Vaca

Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Pinnacle Technical Resources

Ivonne Valdes

Sales VP, Cloud & Service Provider Segment Schneider Electric

Adam Vazquez

Vice President Information Technology Hewlett Packard Enterprise

Ligia Vilela

VP, Head of Digital Verizon Fios

Chief Technology Officer and Chief Application Officer of the Digital Channels Technology Group Wells Fargo

Vice President Applications & CIO Enterprise Operations Lockheed Martin Corporation

Paul Raines

Marisa Viveros

Hector Medina

Rosa M. Ramos-Kwok

Vice President, ICT Delivery T-Systems North America, Inc.

Monica McManus

VP - Information Technology Macy's

Rafael Mena

Chief Information Officer Orange County

Miguel Quiroga

Chief Executive Officer GameStop Corporation Managing Director, Retail, Preferred, and Global Wealth and Investment Management Technology Bank of America

Vice President Strategy and Offerings, Telecommunications & Media IBM Corporation

Alberto Zuniga

Managing Director - CTO Wells Fargo

latinoleaders.com

L AT INO LE A DE R S

Kelly Garcia

In partnership with:

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Latinos in HiTech

Paving the Way for Latinos in HiTech

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Story by: Joe Dyton

Photos by: Mike Azria

Marcela Alava CIO at Monarch Landscape Companies

hen Marcela Alava landed the perfect job at the perfect time a year ago, it wasn’t just about adding a new entry on her resume—it was about having a platform to make a difference, especially when it comes to the Hispanic community and to careers in STEM. Alava is the chief information officer at Monarch Landscape Companies, the largest regional commercial landscape maintenance and landscape construction company with headquarters in Los Angeles.. As Monarch acquires other landscape companies, she is tasked with developing the information technology (IT) strategy, look at what Monarch’s enterprise-level business needs are and assist in setting up the best practices from an IT perspective across the growing company.

It was somewhat of a perfect storm in how Alava came to work for Monarch. The company’s chief executive officer, Brian Helgoe, was looking for someone to fill the CIO role based on what he was looking to accomplish while Alava, who was working for a non-profit at the time, was in need of a change both professionally and personally.

When the two finally connected, it turned out she had what Helgoe was looking for in a CIO and the position had what Alava wanted in a new challenge.

“Because he’s been in the industry for a really long time, Brian envisioned different ways of doing things and he needed someone that came in with an open mind,” Alava says. “I think what was appealing to him was that I didn’t come in with,

16 • September / October 2017

‘Here’s your solution, here’s our SUPPORT answer, this is what you need to do HITEC colleagues because that’s what other landscape have been very supand construction companies do.’ I portive of Marcela came in with a different approach. in many ways. She Alava celebrated her one-year says they have been very inspiring and anniversary at Monarch in early considers them September and in that short amount her mentors. They of time believes she has already grown have shared career significantly. She’s learned a lot about advice with her and construction and landscaping—two have been very supportive. industries she had never been exposed to before. She’s developed a new appreciation for the landscaping profession especially and for the people who work within the industry. Her time at Monarch has shown her there are numerous career paths in landscaping that aren’t talked about enough.

“I don’t think people have had an opportunity to examine it as a great opportunity for a career,” Alava says. “We have gardeners, account managers, project managers, engineers, landscape architects, designers, estimators and regional and corporate leadership positions. I mean there are all sorts of careers within this industry that I hadn’t considered or realized before. For me, it’s a highly professional organization and a great career move.”

Landscaping career opportunity awareness is not the only issue Alava hopes to address in her position. There’s also

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a shortage of Hispanic students involved in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), which she believes can be fixed with the right amount of encouragement.

For example, STEM has become more visible in the preschool levels all the way through grade school, but in college, students aren’t encouraged as much to take part in science and engineering courses. Without that push at the college level, there just aren’t going to be as many people entering the workforce trained in any kind of STEM-related vocation.

There are programs that are helping to draw more awareness to STEM as a career that revolves around math and coding.

Alava is on an advisory council of an organization called STEM Advantage that partners with California State schools that help promote STEM education by providing scholarships, internships and mentorships.

The other side of the equation is providing opportunities for those who are interested in a STEM career. As Alava points out, these opportunities should not just be for entry-level positions either—companies should establish diversity programs that will allow for people to be eligible for management positions, too. She also believes it would be beneficial for corporations to partner with colleges to establish the types of skill sets they will need students to have after graduation. In fact, there are some programs that are starting to emerge where businesses will pay educational institutions for individuals’ education.

As a company, Monarch is doing its part. While many positions are entry level, there are numerous opportunities to move up the ladder—as others and Alava has proved. Monarch is committed to training and diversity and overall advancement of Latinos in leadership positions.

“I’m a great example of that,” she says. “I don’t know that Brian was specifically looking for a Latina CIO, but there’s not that many of us. But, he’s been very forthcoming in providing opportunities to advance for everyone in the organization.”

In partnership with:

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Latinos in HiTech

The Ripple Effect of Mentorship

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hroughout our careers, we regularly meet people who have the opportunity to leave a print in our lives. For Cimi Thomas, IT Lead for Client Services Systems at Mercedes-Benz Financial Services, one such person is Rodolfo Dominguez, VP of Business Transformation and Chief Digital Officer at the same company. Dominguez, named as one of the HITEC 100 for 2017 and 2018, has long encouraged younger professionals to be curious and seek mentors, coaches and other selfimprovement mechanisms.

Thomas is originally from India and has forged a livelihood based on her love for designing and creating things. Her passion is art, but her parents convinced her to reach for a more financially secure profession.

She decided to combine art with technology which still allows her to be creative and bring things to life.

During her time in India, Thomas taught computer science, math and digital electronics. When she arrived to the U.S., she knew it was a perfect time change gears in her career. She soon found herself working at Mercedes-Benz Financial Services.

Ten years later, Thomas is now an IT Lead who attributes much of her recent success and growth to Dominguez’s mentorship. “He has taught me how to be my genuine self. He has taught me how I can be a great leader just by being authentic and, in doing so, he has helped me tap into my own potential.”

Dominguez, as Thomas described, is someone inspiring and admirable with a radiant and energetic personality. In a word, he is approachable. It’s because of his personality that Thomas felt comfortable in asking him for a meeting and that meeting turned into a regular series of coaching sessions.

“A mentor can support you with the right wisdom and can help you advance in your career by coaching you. He can prepare you for that next step that you want to take. Having a mentor provides you with that safe environment where you can openly ask questions and learn to grow yourself.” says Thomas.

During the six months that Thomas has been mentored by Dominguez, she feels she has grown incredibly. To her, Dominguez has helped her stay focused on her goals and to realize the great potential she has. “He leads by example,” claims Thomas. “If you are aspiring to be a good leader, it is crucial to have a good mentor, the right mentor.” Thomas has changed the way she looks at herself now. She is now confident and is able to set realistic goals.

18 • September / October 2017

Cimi Thomas IT Lead at Client Services Systems

Cimi Thomas IT Lead at Client Services Systems

Rodolfo Dominguez VP of Business Transformation and CDO

Part of mentoring also involves preparing them to lead others in this industry. It is no secret; the STEM industry is underrepresented. And with innovation becoming a daily practice, Thomas expressed how important it is maintaining an active flow of diverse talent in the workforce, especially in STEM. “I believe this is very crucial for today’s world because everything is changing. Everything is changing fast. Technology is changing. Even the way we innovate is changing. We need to double up in this area and mentor more leaders for our future.” shared Thomas. To her, this is a responsibility. This is a way of giving back. This is the ripple effect of mentorship. You get, you grow and you give.

NFL CELEBRATES Design by: Carlos Cuevas

HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

The NFL has collaborated with Latino

Leaders Magazine and is proud to showcase and honor the top leadership figures who have influenced, inspired and impacted the Latino community. One of the greatest NFL players has also joined forces, NFL Hall of Famer Anthony Muñoz, is working to leave a long-lasting impact on the lives of our younger Latinos through programs and activities within the Muñoz Foundation. Additionally we are honoring business leaders across the country who display leadership, dedication, and love for the community. They will be receiving the NFL Hispanic Heritage Leadership Award and a $2,000 grant to aid an organization of their choice. Throughout Hispanic Heritage Month, you will also be able to visit www.NFL.com/ HispanicHeritage to see how the NFL is joining the celebration with your favorite local team.

Get to know past Hispanic players who have made a difference on and off the field. This month is your month to #FeelTheOrgullo!

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Nationwide has also partnered up with the NFL in support of the Hispanic Heritage Leadership Awards. It is the latest in a series of rich and authentic relationships with the Hispanic community. The Columbusbased insurance and financial services company already has partnerships with Latina Style, the United States Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, the Association of Latino Professionals For America, and Prospanica. Nationwide also provides resources, support and service to Hispanic consumers and business owners across the country. The sponsorship of Hispanic Heritage Leadership Awards aligns with Nationwide’s goal of partnering with organizations that share the company’s values of improving the lives of others and giving back to the community.

BEYOND THE SIDELINES,

INTO THE HEART Story by: Amanda Casanova

The triumphant moment Anthony Muñoz stepped off the football field for the last time, was the humbling moment he knew his work was not done. As one of the greatest football players in the NFL and four-time Offensive Lineman of the Year, Muñoz aspires to be much more than just a legend in the NFL Hall of Fame.

Muñoz is conscious of the urgent need of role models and mentors among Latinos. He has worked mentoring children and as a medical assistant in Mexico. However, Muñoz knows his work does not stop there. This former Cincinnati Bengal then created a foundation for youth with hope to create a wave of impact on the Latino community.

These are the things that he’s hoping he’s one day remembered for.

“Some people probably think football is how I live my life,” he said. “I want my legacy to be that of someone who was God-fearing and obedient to helping others, a guy that loved his life, his family and wanted to make a difference.”

Those who are football fanatics know Muñoz as the Hall of Famer who played for 13 years with the Cincinnati Bengals. He was drafted as the third overall pick for the team in 1980 and played in two Super Bowls (The Bengals narrowly lost both games).

He was always involved in community work during his seasons in the NFL, but after retirement, he decided to focus on equipping youth with skills for both on and off the gridiron. He began to put his ideas and dreams to work

OF THE COMMUNITY

and in 2002, he created the Anthony Muñoz Foundation, a non-profit organization committed to helping the youth in the Cincinnati tri-state area. The foundation awards scholarships and hosts football camps and leadership seminars for young students who excel, as well as those who struggle academically.

Since its launch, the foundation has raised more than $10 million for charities and programs.

“When I do something and put my name to it, I want to be totally engaged,” he said. “There’s a staff that runs (the foundation), and they get asked, ‘Do you ever see Anthony?’ and they say, ‘Yeah, we see him every day.’”

Muñoz said he learned about the importance of giving back to the Latino community from his mentors, including his mom. They have all been key players in the work Muñoz has done. He sees the foundation as a way to say thanks.

“This is kind of a way to honor those who poured into my life,” he said. “I see the impact that mentors like that make, and that’s why I do what I do.”

This year, Muñoz is partnering with NFL Play 60 Character Camps, a program that teaches football skills and encourages exercise and strong character building.

NFL Play 60 Character Camps expands this year to camps in 14 cities and will welcome about 300 youth— mostly Hispanic.

“The great thing about the Latino community is the work ethic, but also just believing they can accomplish anything,” Muñoz said. “They dream big.”

n

RECIPIENTS OF THE

NFL HISPANIC

HERITAGE LEADERSHIP AWARD

These are selected leaders recognized through the NFL’s Hispanic Heritage Leadership Awards program, which highlights the contributions of Hispanic leaders in each NFL market. They will each be awarded $2,000 grant for an organization of their selection. This award aims to recognize the efforts and drive of these Hispanic leaders. Nationwide’s partnership with the NFL and support of the Hispanic Heritage Leadership Awards is the latest in a series of rich and authentic relationships with the Hispanic community. The sponsorship of Hispanic Heritage Leadership Awards aligns with Nationwide’s goal of partnering with organizations that share the company’s values of improving the lives of others and giving back to the community.

CAROLINA PANTHERS

PASTOR RUSTY PRICE PRESIDENT, CAMINO COMMUNITY CENTER

NEW ORLEANS SAINTS

PEGGY MENDOZA VICE PRESIDENT AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, CITY YEAR NEW ORLEANS

NEW YORK GIANTS

AWILDA DIAZ-CRUZ SURVIVOR / CANCER ADVOCATE

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Pastor Rusty Price has been an advocate of the Hispanic and greater Charlotte community for over 25 years.

Pastor Price’s Camino Community Center currently oversees Bethesda Health Center (free clinic), Camino Pantry (groceries for families in crisis), Camino Thrift (retail fundraising/donations) and the Way of Hope Homeless Ministry. Pastor Price has been instrumental in helping individuals and families address widespread needs from food, health, transportation and shelter to professional services.

On behalf of Pastor Price, the Camino Community Center will be receiving a $2,000 grant.

Is the Vice President and Executive Director of City Year New Orleans. City Year is a service organization devoted to keeping public education students in school and on track to graduate and is built on the belief through service we can demonstrate the power and idealism of young people, engage citizens to benefit the common good and develop young leaders of the next generation.

In 2005, City Year Louisiana was founded in response to the overwhelming service needs following Hurricane Katrina. Today, they serve over 5,500 students in six New Orleans schools. On behalf of Peggy Mendoza, City Year New Orleans will be receiving a $2,000 grant.

A breast cancer survivor and advocate, Awilda DiazCruz was diagnosed with stage 3 inflammatory breast cancer in February 2014. She halted her career, and with the support of her family, Diaz-Cruz underwent chemotherapy and radiation, using her positive outlook to move forward. Her journey inspired her to get involved with the American Cancer Society. Today, she’s a strong supporter of Making Strides Against Cancer walks and works with Jersey City Medical Center’s support group to help patients find encouragement and hope. On behalf of Awilda Diaz-Cruz, the American Cancer Society will be receiving a $2,000 grant.

OAKLAND RAIDERS

JACQUELINE MARTINEZ GARCEL CEO, LATINO COMMUNITY FOUNDATION (LCF)

WASHINGTON REDSKINS

MARIA FERNANDA BORJA PRESIDENT & CEO, LATINO STUDENT FUND

MIAMI DOLPHINS

CESAR CONDE CHAIRMAN, NBCUNIVERSAL INTERNATIONAL GROUP AND NBCUNIVERSAL TELEMUNDO ENTERPRISES

MINNESOTA VIKINGS

ELOISA ECHÁVEZ EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, LA OPORTUNIDAD, INC.

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS

YVONNE GARCIA SVP, GLOBAL HEAD OF CLIENT SOLUTIONS GROUP AND PROGRAM MANAGEMENT OFFICE (PMO), STATE STREET CORPORATION / NATIONAL CHAIRWOMAN, ASSOCIATION OF LATINO PROFESSIONALS FOR AMERICA (ALPFA)

Is a visionary leader who is passionate about elevating the voices of communities, pursuing equity, and using philanthropy as a catalyst for tangible, enduring social change. As the CEO of the Latino Community Foundation (LCF), she has been committed to the organization’s mission of unleashing the power of Latinos in California. LCF has also established the first-ever Latino Non-Profit Accelerator in the country and facilitated a statewide voter mobilization campaign that reached eight million Latinos in 2016. On behalf of Jacqueline Martinez Garcel, Communities United for Restorative Youth Justice (CURYJ) will be receiving a $2,000 grant

President & CEO of the Latino Student Fund, Maria Fernanda Borja is passionate about education and under her leadership, the Latino Student Fund has launched and grown programs such as the LISTO College Prep Program that have created a difference in the lives of the students and their families. In 2017, Borja received the Non-Profit Leader of the Year award from The Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and was recognized by El Tiempo Latino’s Powermeter as one of the 100 Most Influential People for the Hispanic Community of the Washington D.C. Metro Area. On behalf of Maria Fernanda Borja, the Latino Student Fund will be receiving a $2,000 grant.

Prior to NBCUniversal in October 2013, Cesar Conde was the President of Univision Networks. Social and community initiatives are core to Conde’s business approach and he has emphasized the importance of empowerment initiatives for the Hispanic community. He’s spearheaded a number of initiatives including the launch of El Poder En Ti, NBCUniversal Telemundo Enterprises’ robust community initiative aimed at empowering viewers to take action for a better life in three specific areas of key importance to U.S. Hispanics: education, health and finance, among others. Conde sits on the board of the Foundation for Excellence in Education and the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics. On behalf of Cesar Conde, Amigos for Kids will be receiving a $2,000 grant.

Originally from Colombia, South America, Eloisa has been living in Minnesota since 1988. She has dedicated most of these years to serve the Latino community in various leadership roles. She has been the Executive Director of La Oportunidad since 1998 and also produces & hosts its TV program En Familia (“Within Family”). For 30 years, La Oportunidad has provided bilingual and culturally relevant family-centered programs for Latino children, youth, adults and families. Through this work, the organization helps Latinos achieve educational and economic success; and close the achievement gap and break the cycle of poverty. On behalf of Eloisa Echávez, La Oportunidad will be receiving a $2,000 grant.

As an active leader in her community, Garcia serves as the Chairwoman for the largest Latino Professional Organization in the country, ALPFA. Because of her vision and leadership, she’s tripled ALPFA’s membership, to a record high of 80,000 members. She also serves as the Chair of the Hispanic Scholarship Fund for Boston, and is the co-founding Chair of Milagros para Niños, a board at Children’s Hospital in Boston, which has raised more than $8.2 million in funds for Hispanic children who can’t afford medical care. On behalf of Yvonne Garcia, the Association of Latino Professionals for America (ALPFA) will be receiving a $2,000 grant.

ANTONIO O. GARZA JR. ARCILIA ACOSTA

COUNSEL AT WHITE & CASE LLP- MEXICO CITY PRESIDENT AND CEO OF CARCON INDUSTRIES & CONSTRUCTION AND STL ENGINEERS MEXICO CITY DALLAS, TX YEARS IN BOARD SERVICE: 7 YEARS YEARS IN BOARD SERVICE: 9 YEARS BOARDS SERVING: KANSAS CITY BOARDS SERVING: TPG PACE ENERGY SOUTHERN He served as the United States Ambas- HOLDINGS CORP., LEGACY TEXAS FINANCIAL GROUP, ENERGY FUTURE sador to Mexico from 2002 to January HOLDINGS CORP.

2009. Named by the Governor George W. Bush as Texas’s Secretary of State from 1994 to 1998 and served as Senior Policy Advisor to Governor of the State of Texas from 1994 to 1997.He served six years as Cameron County Judge. In 2009, he received the Azteca Aguila, the Mexican government’s highest honor bestowed upon a non-citizen. Received each university’s distinguished alumni awards.

ANGEL A. RUIZ FORMER CEO OF ERICSSON’S DALLAS, TX BOARDS SERVING: LIBERTY MUTUAL

In 2010, Ruiz was awarded the Gifford K. Johnson Community Leadership Award from the University of Texas at Dallas.He chaired CTIA’s Suppliers’ Council since 2009. He was also involved in project and product management and worked in customer support assignments in Mexico, Venezuela and Sweden. Ruiz was presented the Tech Titan CEO Award by the Metroplex Technology Business Council.

Founder of Southwestern Testing Laboratories. Recognized as one of the “Most Influential and Powerful Women in Texas” by Texas Diversity Magazine. In April 2010, was named one of the “Most Influential and Powerful Women of Texas” for the second time. Honored for her leadership in the community with the “Multicultural Leadership Award” by the Texas Diversity Council. In 2014, she was inducted into the National Women’s Business Hall of Fame.

ANNA R. CABLIK

PRESIDENT AND CEO OF ANASTEEL & SUPPLY COMPANY, LLC ELLENWOOD, GA YEARS IN BOARD SERVICE: 4 YEARS BOARDS SERVING: BB&T CORP.

President at Anatek, Inc., Partner at Camana Holdings LLC, Partner at CK Property Group LLC, Partner at International Trade Imports LLC and Partner at PanAmerican Logistics LLC. Ms. Cablik was previously employed as President by Massana Construction LLC. Nominating Committee and Corporate Governance Committee

CESAR ALVAREZ

SENIOR CHAIRMAN OF GREENBERG TRAURIG. MIAMI, FL YEARS IN BOARD SERVICE: 12 YEARS BOARDS SERVING: GREENBERG TOURIG, MEDNAX, FAIRHOLME FUNDS, INTREXON, THE ST. JOE COMPANY, WATSCO INC.

CESAR CONDE JR.

CHAIRMAN OF NBCUNIVERSAL TELEMUNDO ENTERPRISES AND NBCUNIVERSAL INTERNATIONAL GROUP NEW YORK YEARS IN BOARD SERVICE: 1 YEARS

BOARDS SERVING: OWENS CORNING, PEPSICO, NBCUNIVERSAL TELEMUNDO ENTERPRISES AND NBCUNIVERSAL Directed the firm’s growth from 325 law- INTERNATIONAL GROUP.

yers in eight offices to approximately 1850 attorneys and government professionals in more than 36 locations in the United States, Europe, Asia and Latin America, including strategic alliances in Milan and Rome, Italy. The firm was recognized as the fastestgrowing law firm in the United States and is among the Top 10 law firms in the country.

He holds a B.A. with honors from Harvard University and an M.B.A. from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

While at Univision, he also spearheaded the development of the “Es el Momento” national education initiative with The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, led the “Ya es Hora” Latino citizenship and voter campaign, and launched the network’s first “Teletón USA” broadcast to raise funds for disabled children in need of rehabilitation services.

TOP LATINOS IN REAL ESTATE

The Top Latino Real Estate Professionals The Housing Industry has been a big component of today’s U.S. economy. Many experts agree that the Hispanic Housing Market has been the biggest driver of this boom over quite some years now.

In recent studies, we found that more than half of Latinos buying houses work with a Latino real estate broker or professional. So, we wanted to know and present to you, who are some of the Top Latinos making this happen. Our research included a process of screening nominations, independent research, National Association of Real Estate Professional (NAHREP) lists, and our own findings. *List in no particular order NAME / COMPANY / CITY / YEARS IN REAL ESTATE

MATTHEW R GUZMAN RE/MAX Universal Spring,TX

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LUIS ORTIZ RE/MAX Partners Berwyn, IL 9 years

JANIE RIVERA CONLEY RE/MAX Market Place Oak Creek, WI

VERA ALICIA VASQUEZ RE/MAX DFW Associates Dallas, TX

ANDREA PEÑA MORAN Century 21-Alicia Trevino Realtors Dallas, TX

BIOGRAPHY

A native Texan, he’s owner of RE/MAX Universal.Under Matt’s leadership, he has been able to help companies dramatically increase revenue production and employee morale. Matt has always believed in the importance of engaging new ideas and professional development. As a manager, Matt crosstrained his teams allowing them to gain leadership and management skills and move within the company. As a top producer, Matt consistently exceeds goals and is willing and ready to share best practices with other agents. After joining Matt’s team, agents have gone from no production to multiple units within weeks of joining his team. Matt enjoys giving back and helping agents and clients achieve their goals. He is bilingual in Spanish and English and is often asked to serve as a translator. An entrepreneur at heart, Matt is very dedicated to serving his customers and building long-term relationships. He is self-motivated, goal-oriented and focused on quality. The house-buying and house-selling experiences should be exciting and memorable. Matt strives to provide the best service and loyalty to his clients.

Luis Ortiz, a Real Estate Broker with RE/MAX Partners, has been in the business for nine years. He is a dedicated and committed broker who consistently goes above and beyond for his clients. Luis’s energy and unmistakable knowledge of the area and the business make him an ideal choice for helping with all of your real estate needs. Luis has been awarded the NAHREP Top 250 Latino Agent award for 4 consecutive years, 2013, 2014, 2015, and 2016. He was ranked #23 in the nation and #1 in Illinois for 2016, the Chicago Association of Realtors named Luis as a Top 1% Producer. He was also acknowledged for being the Top Producer in Cicero, Berwyn and Stickney for most units and volume sold. Team Motto: Love, Serve and Care. The Team is actively involved in it’s primary market area community and have volunteer at The Greater Food Depository, and St. Thomas of Canterbury Church Soup Kitchen.

Working alongside local Latino Leaders to educate and inform the community of the home buying process, Janie Rivera Conley work with home buying counselors that help prospective homebuyers locate grants for down payment assistance and closing costs. Janie enjoys giving back to her community as at least 75% of her business comes from Latino first-time homebuyers. Since 2013, she has been the president of the Hispanic Roundtable, Inc. of Racine, WI - a nonprofit organization that focuses on giving back to the Hispanic community through community home restoration funds to help with emergency home repairs for local Racine County homeowners. She travels to Milwaukee, Waukesha, Racine and Kenosha Counties to help her clients in the home buying process. Janie had 49 closed transactions sides in 2015 and 68 closed transactions sides in 2016; and to date continues expand her business to help the Latino Community.

Vera Alicia Vasquez, better known as Alicia, was born in Zacatecas, Mexico in a rural town by the name of Jalpa. She came into this country at the tender age of three only to be deported three years later along with her five brothers and sisters. Her family persisted on living the “American Dream”. She became employed by Levi Straus, a company specializing on producing Levis jeans. She was employed for more than seventeen years and and became a spokesman for their redesign program. When receiving a phone call from her brothers in Dallas about joining their Real Estate group, she became intrigued. Attending real estate school and working twelve hour shifts a day to provide for her only daughter as a single parent. She passed her exams and adventured out into a different city. Within a year of being in Dallas, Alicia built her clientele and has been one hundred percent referral since. She is more than an agent. Her clients gravitate towards her. She is warm, loving and caring person.

Andrea, was born in Ecuador and she lived there until 2013 when she moved to Dallas.She became a Realtor in 2014, and her vision is to help a community that is not served as they deserve it, so she decided to serve the Latino community. She’s constantly looking for people and companies who have the same goals, that’s why last year she joined Alicia Treviño at Century 21, who has been a leader in the market for over 25 years. Today she’s proud to say that she has help more than 170 Latino families to accomplish their dream of owning a home. Andrea also joined Terratino.com, because if their commitment and service to the Latino community. And she’s part of a movement called “Ya estoy listo”. This movement was created to give back to the Latino Community.

3 years

IVAN ESTRADA Douglas Elliman Beverly Hills / Ivan Estrada Properties Beverly Hills, CA

GABRIEL M. BEDOYA Corcoran Group Real Estate New York, NY

Ivan began his career as a C.P.A. in one of the most prestigious firms in the country and started his career in real estate in the year 2007. Today, Ivan is a top real estate agent at the Douglas Elliman Beverly Hills office with a thriving team of his own, Ivan Estrada Properties. Ivan frequently travels nationwide as a featured speaker and panelist for Inman, The California Association of Realtors, NAHREP, multiple local associations and radio & podcasts throughout the country. Ivan’s hard work and persistence has awarded him multiple accolades which include Top Real Estate Influencer in Los Angeles for 2017, Top Producer Award from 2012 to 2016, and most honorably received the title of “Top 30 Under 30″ in real estate in the nation for 2014. Ivan’s team is very involved in the community and are very humbled for their involvement in contributing to over 50 charities locally, regionally and nationally. Out of every transaction, Ivan’s team give a portion of every commission to a charity of the client’s choice.

Honesty, integrity and unparalleled standards are just some of the words that could be used to describe working with Gabriel Bedoya. His knowledge of the Manhattan and Southern Florida real estate markets has consistently earned him the highest honor and recognition bestowed by the Corcoran Group.

He is also a proud member of Corcoran’s Top Multi-Million Dollar Club and is recognized as one of Corcoran’s top 25 brokers and was Manhattan’s Rookie of the year. When it comes to real estate and real estate management and investing, Gabriel possesses unstoppable energy, drive and determination. These qualities, coupled with a sound understanding of the meaning of customer service, make him an invaluable resource to buyers, sellers and investors. He takes the time to gain a thorough understanding of a client’s objectives. He held a position as V.P. of Sales and Marketing and Sales in the Airline and Duty Free industries. Prior to that, he was Directeur de l’Hebergement at the very posh Hotel Plaza Athenne in Manhattan.

Marcus & Millichap Palo Alto, CA 27 years

ALEX D. ZYLBERGLAIT Marcus & Millichap Miami, FL 20 years

LIDIA GARCIA - SUAREZ PorchLight Real Estate Group Westminster, CO

ANGELICA “ANGIE” HENRY New Palace Realty San Marcos, CA

RENE FONSECA Long & Foster Real Estate McLean, VA

MARK DIMAS Mark Dimas Properties Cypress, TX 15 years

MARTY RODRIGUEZ Century 21 Marty Rodriguez Glendora, CA 39 years

CLAUDIA RESTREPO Keller Williams Realty / Legacy Group Network Spokane, WA

Alex Zylberglait, CCIM, SIOR is Senior Managing Director of Investments with Marcus & Millichap in Miami. Over the last 20 years, Alex has been involved in over $1.6 billion worth of transactions involving office, single-tenant net-lease, industrial, land and retail properties in South Florida ranging in value from $1 million to $20 million. Alex works closely with domestic and Latin American investors. Alex has been ranked as one of the top 20 Marcus & Millichap agents among over 1,300 agents nationwide and has received the 2015 Chairman’s Circle of Excellence Award, Marcus & Millichap’s highest sales recognition award.

Alex also received the 2015 NAIOP Award for Office Broker of the Year. Prior to joining Marcus & Millichap, he was director of acquisitions for a large operator in the Southeast U.S., Prior to that, he was an advisor to financial institutions with Ernst & Young for disposition and evaluation of performing and underperforming assets as well as REOs. Alex has earned the designations of Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM) and Society of Industrial and Office Realtors (SIOR.) He received his B.A. from the University of California and his MBA with a concentration in finance and real estate from the University of Illinois.

L AT INO LE A DE R S

EDUARDO U. CERNA

BIOGRAPHY

Eduardo Cerna, over the course of his career has brokered nearly $1 billion in real estate transactions. A 27+ year veteran, Ed’s proven ability to increase his clients’ net worth, and his capacity to understand their financial goals in the context of dynamic and ever-changing market conditions, set him apart from other brokers. A consistent Top Agent, Ed has brokered some of the most notable multifamily transactions in the company. One of these deals resulted in the brokerage of the largest transaction for a loan origination in the history of Marcus & Millichap Capital Corporation. Cerna’s brokerage savvy has led to several companywide recognitions, including recognition as a Top 10 investment professional companywide in 1998, a Top 20 investment professional in 1999 and a Top 30 NMHG investment professional in 2011. In addition, he has received many companywide awards including a Platinum award, 15 National Achievement Awards and 22 Sales Recognition Awards.

As a multi-award-winning Realtor, Lidia has proven year after year that she exceeds expectations and gets results. A Denver-savvy native of Hispanic decent, she offers expert advice and outstanding service through every step of the real-estate experience. She understands that each client brings their own unique experience, culture, dreams and she strives to listen and understand the needs of each one. She has volunteered for La Raza Youth Leadership Conference, Women of Color Conference, taught ESL at Iglesia Nazareno de Westminster, volunteers at A Precious Child and Dolls for Daughters. She has also raised funds for Denver Bridge Project, as well as donated funds to El Centro Su Teatro, and the Latin American Educational Foundation. Lidia was also a recipient of an LAEF scholarship. She is a multi-year winner of the 5 Star professional award as published in 5280 Magazine, Multi-year Diamond Award winner, and Executive Award winner.

Angie worked hard, pursued a career in Real Estate to finally open her doors to her own Real Estate Brokerage Firm in 2014. This would provide her with the opportunity to do more, and to continue to inspire and mentor others in achieving their home dreams. Her success has been documented in Nely Galan’s New York Times Best Seller book “Self Made” where Angie’s story is featured. Angie Henry was also selected by Coca-Cola as a 5by20 Global Women Leader and was awarded San Diego County Hispanic Chamber Latina Entrepreneur of the Year 2015. She was also a former President and Founder for the NAHREP North County San Diego Chapter. Angie currently has multiple offices, has hired many agents and continues to grow, achieving Top 5 % of Sales for San Diego County in 2016. Her main goal is to continue to help families through education, knowledge and patience. Angie Henry is the Founder of New Palace Realty where the model is “Making Home Dreams Happen.”

Prior to becoming a Real Estate Professional, René retired as a highly-decorated Army Colonel. This unique background positioned Rene to transition into an equally successful Real Estate career. Along with his wife and Business Partner, Deborah DeMoss Fonseca, he formed The Fonseca Group. They sell Real Estate in VA, D.C and MD, which combined, comprise one of the fastest moving Real Estate markets in the country. Rene forms part of the Long & Foster elite Gold Team of Top Producers. Furthermore, he has the prestigious achievement of being a Member of the Northern Virginia Association of Realtors “Multi-Million Dollar Sales Club.” He has served for 10 years on the Board of Central Union Mission - the nation’s oldest and largest homeless shelter. He has been appointed by the Governor of Virginia in recent years to serve The Commonwealth as a Member of the Boards of: The Virginia Real Estate Board, The Virginia Real Estate Board of Appraisers, and the Board of Regents of Radford University.

#1 Hispanic Realtor in the U.S. (NAHREP 2017) Houston’s #3 Residential Realtor (HBJ 2017) and US #9 Residential Realtor in the U.S. (WSJ 2016). Mark Dimas is the Broker Owner of Mark Dimas Properties located in Cypress, a suburb in the Houston MSA. With his main office in the Houston area and satellite offices in San Antonio, and the Dallas Fort-Worth area, Mark has become the “Go-to” agent for traditional clients and institutional firms looking to transact SFR acquisition and disposition in Texas. With 15 years of experience, Mark has become one of Houston’s leading real estate brokers with a reputation for his strong work ethic and tenacity in representing his clients’ best interests.

Thanks to his exceptionally loyal clientele, Mark’s business is over 90% referral and repeat clients, and it has maintained a near perfect client experience record with over 650 positive reviews making him the #2 most reviewed agent with the Houston Association of Realtors.

Marty Rodriguez has been selling residential real estate in Southern California for the Century 21 System for the past 39 years. She has an incredible real estate sales record, both in the Nation and in the “WORLD”. She is recognized as the most successful real estate agent in the history of Century 21. Marty and her team have sold over 4.2 Billion Dollars in real estate and have been ranked as #1 in the nation for 21 years and #1 in the World for 7 years. Her unmatched industry knowledge gives her the advantage to advertise and move real estate in any market. Her outstanding motivational and leadership skills drive her to a level of success that only a few can claim. Marty also signed a Charter to have her own “Marty’s Dream Team” Chapter of City of Hope. Marty believes with great success also comes an even greater opportunity to give back.

Claudia is the team leader for the Legacy Group Spokane, part of Keller Williams. Born and raised in Colombia, South America, she grew up in a family of successful entrepreneurs.. She came to the United States in 2003 to learn and study English, in which she has become very fluent, along with her native language Spanish. Claudia is a very positive person and she truly enjoys working with people. She is exceptional at listening to her clients, and always puts their needs first. The Legacy Group has been, for 9 years in a row, a Top Selling Real Estate Group in Spokane. Claudia and her team feels very strongly about their marketing plan, they utilize the latest technologies, market research and business strategies to find solutions that are tailored to the real estate needs of each client and surpass their expectations.

Rene and Deborah Fonseca The Fonseca Group Rene and Deborah Fonseca Rene and Deborah Fonseca Excellence in Real Estate The Fonseca Group The Fonseca Group Excellence in Real Estate Excellence in Real Estate Licensed in DC, VA, MD 202-669-8980 Licensed in DC, VA, MD 202-669-8980 Licensed in DC, VA, MD

202-669-8980

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NAME / COMPANY / CITY / YEARS IN REAL ESTATE

NAME / COMPANY / CITY / YEARS IN REAL ESTATE

WILLIAM BUSTOS

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Keller Williams Realty / William Bustos Group Salt Lake City, UT

BIOGRAPHY

William has a degree in Communications with an emphasis in negotiation and a minor in Economics. He is one of the most experienced, professional Realtors in the region and is Ranked #1 in Utah. In his 22 years as a real estate professional, William has closed more than 2,500 transactions. William is driven and hard working. His powerful negotiation skills, meticulous attention to detail, and high expectations have proven advantageous to his clients. He is affiliated to the Park City MLS, Salt Lake Board of Realtors, and the National Association of Realtors.

The William Bustos Group is an industry leader in the Utah real estate market, they were ranked on 2014 as a Top Performing Group for Utah, 2013 KW Regional &Marketing Top Performing Group, 2012 Ranked #1 in Utah & top Large Sales Team of the Year.

22 years

MARSHALL CARRASCO Marshall Realty Reno, NV 23 years

CRISTINA EDELSTEIN RE/MAX Results Plymouth, MN

SHELLY SALAS The Salas Team Realtors Ltd. Killen, TX

Carrasco constantly presents his clients with a top notch marketing approach, bringing value by giving his clients options for buying and selling their homes and reaching back into his local community through his Marshall Realty Giveback program which sponsors everything from stand out students and teachers to pet adoptions to food drives and more of the like. Carrasco has been climbing the real estate ladder for fifteen years now and was recently named on the Top 250 Latino Agents coming in at Number 5. In the past four years, Carrasco has held one of the top 5 positions and continues to make his mark in the real estate industry by consistently changing the game of real estate. Carrasco and his team at Marshall Realty close an average of 400 deals per year, and were also recently named the number one real estate team in Nevada by Real Trends and The Wall Street Journal.

Cristina thinks that success is always a team effort and believes that she and her husband Kerby, have the privilege of leading some of Minnesota’s most talented, hardworking agents and support staff in the country. Their mission is to help clients achieve their goals through their expert team and innovative systems. They are in a constantly evolving industry; the market is continually changing and sellers and buyers need an expert by their side to navigate it effectively. That is why their clients come back to them time and time again. For a few years, right out of college, Cristina had the privilege of working for an incredible nonprofit helping immigrants and low-income residents start their own businesses. And she left there knowing that she wanted to build something great with her life that would always provide great opportunities for others to succeed in their lives.

Shelly is a first-generation child of migrant parents. Her parents instilled in her to work hard and always reach for her goals. Her dad told her at a very young age, “Mija, if you don’t want to be a migrant worker like me, get your education and do whatever you want to do in life.” Those words have always stuck with Shelly. She became the first member of her family to graduate from college. She’s an Army Veteran, joining when she was 19 years old. She was the first one in her family to join the military. Shelly has been featured in Wall Street Journal several years for being in the top 250 agents/teams nationwide.

She was just ranked #7 2017 Hispanic Realtor nationwide by NAHREP and has also received several top corporate awards for her successful real estate transactions from her corporate clients. She loves being able to help her clients to buy/sell their homes and start new adventures.

12 years

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DAVID ACOSTA Keller Williams Realty / David Acosta Real Estate Group West Hollywood, CA

LEO PAREJA Keller Williams Realty / Leo Pareja Team Falls Church, VA

CHRISTINE DELGADO Keller Williams Realry / Delgado Home Team Tampa, FL

CARISSA ACKER Keller Williams, Real Estate by Design Denton, TX

David develops relationships with the vast majority of his clientele due to his expertise in the market, international connections and his track record in the Real Estate Industry that has earned him to be one of the top Realtors in the nation. When selling a home for any of his clients, David and his professional Team are not afraid to push the market and will work to get the most money for a property. When buying, his negotiation skills will get you the best deal possible and make it simple to get what you want. David understands how important confidentiality and discretion is for every one of his clients and he is committed to that. A large number of his clientele comes from both local and nationwide relationships and if you need to relocate throughout the US and/or Internationally, he will entrust a knowledgeable and reliable partner to make it a smooth move for you.

Leo Pareja entered real estate at just 19 years of age and by 28 he was the #1 Keller Williams Agent in the world. During his 15 years selling, Pareja sold close to 4,000 homes representing around 750 million in transactional volume. In parallel to selling real estate, in 2012 he co-founded and continues to co-own Washington Capital Partners, one of the largest private lending companies in the mid-Atlantic region.

Today, as the CEO of Remine, he and his organization deliver big data visualizations and predictive analytics to real estate agents exclusively through their MLS. Pareja has been highly involved with the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals where he serves today as 2017 National President.

Christine Delgado has been with Keller Williams for 13 years. Although she started her career in real estate in 2004, in 2006 she was asked to join the leadership team at Keller Williams Tampa Properties where she assisted over 200 real estate agents through coaching and consulting. In 2009 she rejoined the Delgado Home Team with her husband as Co-CEO to run a thriving business selling over 3000 homes and serving families throughout Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas county. She has served as a member of the Agent Leadership Council (ALC) for Keller Williams Tampa Properties and her team has been named in the Top 1% of Real Estate Teams in the country according to REAL Trends published in The Wall Street Journal. Her desire to help others has grown the Delgado Home Team to 20 experienced team members and they are always ready and willing to help the Tampa Bay community with their home buying and selling needs.

Carissa’s well-rounded 14 years in the industry has earned her the reputation as the “jack of all trades.” Carissa’s background includes extensive work and expertise in the areas of residential and commercial real estate, investment property, property management, REO, loss mitigation/short sales, and corporate relocation. Carissa began her career with the largest global relocation provider in the world. Through acquisition, Carissa found herself at Freddie Mac managing a large portfolio of inventory properties covering the country. This experience was invaluable as she learned the “other side” of the business. Later, she also assumed responsibility for a large portfolio of mortgage back securities with Bank One. Carissa’s real estate career has been tremendously successful because she truly enjoys helping people. She provides a tailored approach to working with her clients be they buyers or sellers.

No “canned” approaches here. She is a sought after speaker and educator on a national level in the areas of investment, foreclosure, and short sales.

14 years

VERONICA FIGUEROA RE/MAX Innovation, The Figueroa Team Orlando, FL

MONICA FOSTER RE/MAX Space Center Houston, TX

Veronica Figueroa is one of only 20 Agents in the Nation who is a Zillow Agent Advisory Board Member. Veronica is also a National speaker for Zillow, NARHEP, and INMAN Connect. Her areas of expertise are Lender Product Knowledge (FHA, VA, Conventional, Down Payment Assistance & Jumbo Loans), New Home Sales/ Custom Home Sale, Proven Marketing Strategy. Veronica has won various awards. They include the 2015 ORRA TOP PRODUCER CLUB - GOLD, NAHREP Top 100 Nationwide- Ranking #23 in the US, RE/MAX Hall of FAME Award – 2014, 2015, 2016, RE/MAX 100 % Award – 2012, 2013, Wall Street Journal Top 1,000 Realtors 2016, Orlando Hot 100 Realtors- 2016, Orlando Board of Realtor - Community Award 2013. She was also voted Who’s Who in East Orlando Real Estate 2012-2015 and appeared in Powerful Business Woman - Insight Magazine Top 10% 2008-2015. She is also a State of Florida- Real Estate Instructor and a Florida Hospital Powerful Entrepreneur Women Mastermind Member.

When Monica started her real estate business over in the Houston area in 2008, she wanted to be something different in real estate- no begging for business but rather establishing relationships with her clients and impacting the community in a positive way. She didn’t want to be a salesperson but rather a Real Estate Professional. To meet her goal, she began obtaining certifications and giving back to the community. In the years that followed, her business grew by leaps and bounds as more and more clients appreciated her knowledge and experience- evident by her reviews and referrals. In 2013, she formed the Monica Foster Team to better support her clients. Later, they were finally able to support their educational charities in a big way. For 2015, they placed in the Top 20 of all RE/MAX TX teams for the first time. In 2016, they placed in the top 5 Teams of all small teams in Houston and in the Top 100 of all RE/MAX teams in the U.S. Now, the Monica Foster Team is one of the most successful and respected teams in greater Houston and they look forward to doing more in the future.

COVER

Jorge Perez: Miami’s King of Luxury Story by: Rosa

Rodriguez

Perhaps one of the most iconic real estate developers in the country, a man whose Related Group has built enough buildings to change completely the Miami skyline, has had his ups and downs, and here’s the story of how he’s risen from ashes, like a phoenix. latinoleaders.com

orge Perez, a real estate developer and urban planner of The Related Group, proves that the ability to achieve maximum entrepreneurial growth is not a far-fetched dream as it may seem.

Perez, founder, chairman, and CEO of the Related Group began his company in the affordable housing industry, serving the needs of the elderly and those qualified for low-income housing. “We started in public housing development in Florida: Little Havana, Wynwood 40 years ago for the elderly, poor, Latinos,” he said. “It’s what I liked, doing something to benefit society.”

In the late 70s and early 80s, he began development projects in urban areas of Miami such as Little Havana where a number of Cuban exiles settled following the Mariel Boatlift in which a mass exodus from the Caribbean island led Cuban nationals to the United States. The government backed the financing of his projects through government-issued loans. Partnered with Stephen Ross, a New York developer and cofounder of the Related Group of Florida, one of their largest projects at the time was remodeling a 21-unit apartment complex in Little Havana. In the years that followed, larger and more upscale projects took off, including condos and luxury living facilities such as the Murano at Portofino, The Manor at Flagler, New River Yacht Club and The Luxury Skyrise Courtyards in City Place in West Palm Beach.

By the year 2000, Perez had almost entirely left the urban housing industry, allowing him to focus on luxury residencies until 2008 when the housing and economic crisis hit the nation. Perez was driven back into the affordable housing industry. Billions of dollars worth

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COVER

in properties were purchased at the time because due to the housing crisis, which set the country into panic mode following a number of homeowners who had purchased properties without appropriate credit and affordability, causing a national financial meltdown.

Banks and owners wanted to sell properties quickly, expecting a more mediocre market and attempting to get rid of their properties for fast cash.

In recent years, The Related Group has generated about four billion in building production, escalating the firm into one of the largest real-estate companies in the country, and signature developer of upscale living in Florida with numerous projects, such as the Auberge Residences in Miami’s Art District. More than half of the condominium buyers in Miami are foreigners who purchase luxury properties in the United States. The company, which has many properties that begin at more than one million dollars to purchase, has sprouted overseas with upscale condos and hotels in Playa del Carmen, Acapulco and other Mexican getaway destinations. The Related Group has already begun other projects in other parts of the world.

“We have 70 projects surrounding the Americas and three or four in India,” said Perez, dubbed the Condo King. Perez said there are currently up to a dozen condos under construction in South Beach, particularly in Ft. Lauderdale and Miami. He also said there is an international division, which oversees projects in the Bahamas, Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina. “All luxury products,” he said. The Related Group boasts having other divisions such as affordable housing-low income, workforce housing for the middle class and high-end apartments

EDUCATION: • C.W. Post College • Master’s Degree in Urban Planning from the University of Michigan •Honorary Doctorate of Human Letters from C.W. Post Long Island University Distinguished Alumnus Award from the University of Michigan • In 2005, Time Magazine named him one of the top 25 most influential Hispanics in the United States • Citizen of the Year from the Miami Beach Chamber of Commerce • Real Estate Award of Excellence at MIPIM in Cannes

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investment but when things go bad you have to pay.”

This was the situation Perez was challenged with after receiving two billion dollars in loans and three billion in sales that practically dissolved. With 80 banks to deal with, Perez was involved with too many loans. “Even though they allow you to grow faster it can become a huge problem,” he said. “You can’t have all your eggs in one basket, and yet when things go too well people tell you-you’re a genius and you begin believing that.”

Alongside his business endeavors, Perez is also committed to a number of philanthropic efforts. He said he wants the community to grow in sustainability and balance. He takes pleasure in community efforts because it makes him feel like a better human. Along with his family and Puerto Rican singer and close friend Marc Anthony, monies are awarded to pushing efforts for international arts, especially promoting Latin American art. One such example is promoting the art of Cuban artists and offering them scholarships so that they can come to the United States and have opportunities to improve their art and showcases their work in this country. For Perez, it’s also an opportunity for better communication between the United States and Latin America, with Miami serving as the central hub to connect both.

“Many of our immigrants lack the education and have to build from the bottom up and it costs them,” he said. “Many Cubans who arrive to the United States were successful because they had an education so they had a leg up, some were upper class. But if you come from a ranch, can’t write, it’s hard to be successful, especially if you’re different or illegal. And so those are the ones who need to be helped and told, ‘Yes you can!’”

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being produced in Atlanta, St. Petersburg, Orlando and other cities. Each division has a president, construction team, management and other roles.

“We’re best in class,” Perez said as he noted taking pride in the strides The Related Group has taken over the years. “One of my greatest prides is that I’ve created the DNA of the company,” he added.

Brickell Heights is the latest project in Miami. The double tower condos will include shopping areas and a gym and 690 units. He credits part of the success of the inception of these projects to his marketing efforts, which allows them to expand creativity through art and architecture. “Our brand and form of marketing allow us to enter even those markets overseas,” he said. He used a recent project in Cancun as an example, which sold 30 percent higher than it would have sold in the average market. The design and vision of the projects are contributed by members of his staff: two full-time curators and a construction department, which checks all of the projects and reports back to the project managers. Perez calls his team the renaissance men because the project managers know various tasks and are knowledgeable, able to train assistant managers and develop them into strong project managers. Long gone are the days when Perez racked up loans for projects, which are financed through equity partners, minimizing the company’s debt. In the past, Perez has partnered with President Trump for projects in Florida.

As many other entrepreneurial endeavors, Perez, who was born in Argentina to Cuban parents, endured a few setbacks and hardships along the story of his successful company. “Sometimes we’re not strong enough and things can go wrong,” he said. “Leverage is a doubleedged sword. It lets you produce so much with a small

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4 1.-Living Room Bar: The Residences at W Fort Lauderdale 2.-VHouse 3.- VHouse 4.-Living Room Patio: The Residences at W Fort Lauderdale

latinoleaders.com

L AT INO LE A DE R S

TOP LATINOS IN REAL ESTATE

Leo Pareja

President, NAHREP

When it comes to real estate, Leo Pareja has all the right moves Story by: Joe

Dyton

68 • September / October 2017

“I’ve never been employed,” Pareja says. “I was thrown into, or I threw myself into leadership kind of by default.”

P

areja is the president of the National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professionals (NAHREP), an organization dedicated to helping Hispanic families achieve their dream of homeownership, owns a private debt fund as well as a real estate technology company and he also happens to be one of the top performing real estate agents in the country.

A Businessman is Born

After the successful purchase of his own property, Pareja saw an opportunity. He asked his classmates to let him talk to their parents. He called them and

gave a sales pitch about how they could pay for their children’s college education through housing. That summer, Pareja sold 11 houses and made about $60,000--at 21 years of age.

His success got him recruited by a conglomerate company to build a real estate company. He opened six offices in six months and recruited 100 agents. He thought he couldn’t be stopped—then the real estate market collapsed.

“I realized I was a creature of the market and I was not that talented,” he says.

“I was just in the right place at the right time.”

After his multi-million dollar net worth vanished in a year, Pareja needed to figure out his next step. After consulting with more experienced people in the industry, he learned how market cycles worked and that they were driven by collateralized debt obligations.

He started calling banks in 2007 and asked if he could help them with their distressed outlets from then until 2010. The move helped him become one of the biggest real estate agents in the U.S. By 2010, Keller-Williams ranked him the top agent in the world.

When the market stabilized in 2012, Pareja started his private debt fund. As one of the biggest lenders in the Mid-Atlantic region, the fund is financed by fix and flip investors and a number of clients are Latino contractors who can’t navigate the current banking environment.

Paying it Forward

In 2010, Pareja was approached by NAHREP. The organization wanted a Washington, DC presence, which is crucial when launching a market to get influencers involved. Since NAHREP’s mission is to help create sustainable Hispanic homeownership, a value that’s important to Pareja, he was more than happy to help.

After all, once he finished selling homes to his friends in college, his next focus on was on first-time Latino family homebuyers, so he understands the need for organizations like NAHREP. “Latinos are very hard-working, family-oriented people and real estate investment is the foundation of this country’s American dream,” Pareja says. “If the family bought a house 20 years ago and spent the same amount of money they would have on rent, they now have a free and clear home in southern California or northern Virginia and have a lot of wealth. Whether they sell it or refinance to get a line of credit, that’s how the next generation gets to go to college, how an employee can make the jump and say, ‘You know what? I’m going to do this on my own and I need the seed money to start my own business.’ That business becomes a bigger business that employs others and that’s economic stimulus.”

After he ran the Washington, DC chapter, Pareja moved on to the national board and almost by default ended up in an unofficial policy liaison position because he lived so close to the nation’s capital. He got to attend several big meetings including discussions on Dodd-Frank and the legislation that came with housing and NAHREP. “I get a front row seat to see how we shape policy in this country, and it’s been an honor,” he says.

Looking Ahead

As the Latino population continues to grow in the United States, Pareja wants to see it take control of its merits. As an ethnic group, he believes Latinos are at a tipping point when it comes to workforce participation, household formation, and homeownership rates. The Latino demographic is also the fastest growing and is the leading economic growth. For Pareja, this all adds up to wanting to make sure the Latino community continues to fight to make its voice heard.

“Going from where we had our start as our roots in NAHREP as advocacy versus empowerment is very real to me and I think that’s the dialogue we need to be having in this country,” he says. “We don’t need a handout, we just need to understand that we are the market and own it. I’ve always said, ‘I love being the number one at whatever I am doing; that happens to be Latino.” latinoleaders.com

L AT INO LE A DE R S

So what does he mean when he says he’s never had a job?

“By default” is a good way to describe how Pareja found his way into the real estate industry. Initially interested in a career in graphic design, his pursuit was halted during his freshman year of college when web design companies were collapsing because of the tech bubble burst.

However, it was at that same time Pareja had read, “Rich Dad Poor Dad” by Robert Kiyosaki.

Pareja was fascinated by the book’s philosophy about leveraging into three buckets; people, time and money. The book also focused primarily on real estate, which helped lead Pareja to his next career venture—real estate investing.

“That’s not something we grew up talking about at home whether it’s Latino culture or just traditional middle-class culture,” he says. “That put me on this incredible path of trying to gain as much knowledge as I can.”

To get his foot in the door, Pareja approached a local investor and asked him if he could work for him for free. The investor told him no, but referred Pareja to his mentor who lived in a different state. He called the mentor and told him he wanted to learn everything he could about the real estate investing.

Pareja was told to give him $10,000 and he’d teach him everything that he wanted to know.

Without telling anyone, Pareja sold his car and wired someone he didn’t know all of his money. A one-year mentorship began and Pareja learned all there was about how to sell; understanding the psychology of the sales process and the wants and need that are involved. After Pareja got his real estate license, he went back to the man who initially turned him down. He offered him a job and a choice—take an hourly rate and be treated like an assistant or “learn how to hunt and eat what he killed.”

He chose the latter, and the decision paid off dearly. While he was still in college, he had an argument with his landlord about noise levels and his boss told him he needed to buy his own property. As a 20-year-old college student, Pareja thought there was no chance he could do that, but his good credit rating and a co-signature from his dad allowed him to qualify for first-time homeowner’s loan. Since he was a licensed realtor, he was able to put his commission towards paying back the debt.

“I bought my first property before turning 21 with four bedrooms,” he says. “I rented out each one for $500 each and lived effectively rent-free and that was an ‘aha’ moment in my life.”

SPOTLIGHT

Elizabeth Barrutia: Leading with Integrity

Story by: Amanda Casanova Design by: Carlos Cuevas

Elizabeth Barrutia speaks 4 languages and has in lived Mexico, Paris, Brazil and Spain.

With a deep passion for culture and language, Barrutia’s travels made way for her to successfully start her own business— a business that blended both her Latino heritage and her marketing skills.

She’s the founder and CEO of BARÚ, a Los Angeles-based marketing and media agency. The company has worked with Universal Studios, Disney and Warner Bros. Pictures, developing marketing strategies that will appeal to the Hispanic market.

“I love what I do every day and I feel so honored to be able to have a voice within the Latino community,” the wife, mother and entrepreneur said.

Keeping her Latino voice strong was something she learned from her family, she said. Growing up, she traveled around the world with her mother and her father, an expert on bilingual education and Linguistics Professor at University of California, Irvine.

“It was really important to my parents that I retained my Latino roots and language,” she said.

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BARÚ

Founded by Barrutia in 2007 and based in Los Angeles, BARÚ is an integrated marketing and media agency specializing in audienceinclusive brand building.

Her staff is comprised of natives from the U.S., Mexico, Argentina, Colombia and Spain, who have worked at large media agencies like Carat, Focus Media, Chiat Day and OMD. The agency counts Universal Studios Hollywood and Warner Bros. Pictures among its clientele, undertaking Hispanic creative campaigns for the entertainment giants, including Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the recent big screen adaption of Stephen King’s novel, IT. BARÚ has well-established expertise in travel & leisure, food & beverage, kids & family and financial services. BARÚ also works with Treasury Wine Estates, Del Real Foods, Walt Disney, ABC, PBS, and many more.

“They also imparted a love of language and wanted me to travel the world.”

She spent a few years in Madrid, Spain and months at a time in Mexico. She herself studied abroad in Brazil, completing her a year towards her bachelor’s degree at Pontifical Catholic University of Rio de Janeiro and learning her third language: Portuguese. She is a graduate of U.C. Berkeley in Mass Communications and Latin American Literature.

“It was a lot of studying abroad and a lot of language and cultural immersion, which is really important for communication and interpersonal skills,” she said.

Those skills helped to navigate a career at large global media companies and later at a boutique agency where she rose from media director to executive vice president in a few years.

“After working for and running departments at several companies, I realized that could do it myself. It was a very empowering moment for a female entrepreneur to realize that I had the skill set, the ability and determination to start my own business,” Barrutia said.

She launched BARÚ in 2007 and with support from her husband, close friends and

HER LEGACY

In business and in life, Barrutia has learned how to embrace opportunities and never give up.

These lessons in resilience and tenacity she hopes to pass on to the next generation of media and marketing professionals.

“I would really like to be able to empower the next generation of young people, including those that I have helped to train, nurture and mentor. My goal is to ensure they go onto to become even more productive, capable and self-reliant in their future endeavors,’” she said.

As her company continues to grow, she hopes to continue to work on campaigns that have a greater impact on her community.

colleagues, her agency grew.

Today, BARÚ has expanded to provide marketing campaigns tailored for both the Hispanic and general market.

Ten years later, the company still maintains many of their initial clients.

“Making sure that our service is so exceptional that we’ve been able to retain our clients that have been with us since the beginning,” she said.

“Having parents who exposed me to global opportunities and having traveled so much, I had to overcome a lot of fear early on with being immersed in culture where you’re not exactly comfortable,” she said. “Being fearless is so important and being persistent and not being afraid when you hear ‘no,’ but rather looking at ‘no’ as an opportunity and how you can reposition that and turn it into a greater opportunity.”

LATINO LEADERS @JFerraez_Latino

THE BEST OF CHILE

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EARS AGO, I used to love the Chilean Cabs- deep, fruity, well-crafted and complex. I remember being impressed by the ultimate Chilean Label Don Melchor de Casa Concha y Toro for its bold and fruity character. To this day, I think it’s one of the best wines in the world.

So, trying to bring some memories from the past, I hosted a Chilean Wine Tasting with my friends and it was amazing. Don Melchor, of course, made its hit again, but the two that were impeccable and sophisticated were Cabo de Hornos 2006 by Viña San Pedro, that showed finesse and complexity, and the Almaviva 2013 which was elegant and monumental.

Unfortunately, the price level is pretty high, but all three wines were delicious.

One of the best surprises that I have had recently is a bottle of Chateau Dauzac 2009 from Margaux. Fantastically done, with a bold personality and seductive fruitness. It was my first time with this Bordeaux that I paid $39 for it.

Bulmaro Montes and his family, have constantly stayed as my most admired winegrowers in Napa: he just released his 2014 Marita’s Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon and it is a blockbuster! Great character, elegant and pretty complex.

Absolutely delicious wine that is worth cellaring for a while. His Marita’s Cabernet Sauvignon still shows style that exhibits a little boutique production, which is really hard to find. With only 700 cases made, it is a true jewel.

72 • September / October 2017

CELLAR

Marita’s Vineyard 2014 Region: Napa Valley, Coombsville Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon Price: $150 Aromas: Currant, Cherry, Pepper Flavors: Red fruit, chocolate, minty notes Impression: Bold and Elegant Structure: Beautiful concentration Drink with: Steak, Rack of Lamb.

Why I loved this wine? Very silky and still muscular My Rating: 94 pts.

Viña Almaviva (Baron Philippe Rotschild-Casa Concha y Toro) Region: Puente Alto, Chile Varietal: Cabernet Sauvignon, Carmenere and Cabernet Franc Price: $105 Aromas: Vanilla, cracked green pepper, red currant Flavors: Mocha, Cappuccino, blueberry Impression: Heavy, silky Structure: Big Body, well balanced and round Drink with: Complex dishes, French cuisine.

Why I loved this wine?

Sophisticated My Rating: 94 pts.

Mongeard-Mugneret ECHEZEAUX Grand Cru 2007 Region: Burgundy Varietal: Pinot Noir mostly Price: $86 Aromas: Rose, Violets and Cherry pie Flavors: Ripe berries, dark chocolate, cinnamon Impression: Fantastically Perfumed Structure: Silky and ample Drink with: Chinese food, Pecking Duck, Pork Chop Why I loved this wine? It is so delicate and powerful at the same time My Rating: 96 pts.