The Executive Leadership Council (ELC) has announced the appointment of Michael C Hyter as the organisation’s new President and Chief Executive Officer, effective from 1 March 2021.
Hyter assumes leadership of the 35-year-old organisation whose mission includes increasing the number of Black corporate CEOs, C-Suite executives, and board members, and building the pipeline of the next generation of Black corporate leaders. The ELC is a global membership organisation for Black current and former CEOs, senior executives and board members of Fortune 1000 and equivalent companies, top-tier entrepreneurs, and global thought leaders.
“On behalf of our more than 800 members around the world, I am very pleased to welcome Michael Hyter as President & CEO,” stated ELC Board Chair, Lloyd W Brown II, Corporate Community Reinvestment Act Officer for Citigroup. “Mike’s demonstrated track record of advocating for Black Excellence in Corporate America and innovating measurable D&I strategies to improve corporate governance and performance is inspiring.”
DE&I THOUGHT LEADERSHIP
Hyter’s appointment comes at a pivotal time in society, as corporations transform their governance and leadership strategies to address longstanding structural gaps in racial and gender equity and opportunity. In fact, many Fortune 500 CEOs believe Hyter is the best candidate for the ELC CEO role. “The ELC’s mission is as relevant today as it was when the organisation was founded nearly 35 years ago. 2020 proved this, as companies were confronted with the hard realities of racial and social unrest,” commented Marvin Ellison, President and CEO of Lowe’s.
“Having worked with Michael Hyter for several years, I know he will elevate the impact and value of The ELC,” added Ellison. “Mike’s technical expertise and insights provide CEOs with actionable ideas to advance diversity and inclusion, professional development and innovation.”
Frank Bisignano, President and CEO of Fiserv agrees. “Michael Hyter is a steadfast advocate for inclusive and innovative strategic thinking; and he is ideally qualified to lead The ELC,” said Bisignano. “Mike is a seasoned executive with a demonstrated track record of counselling companies; and shaping environments that drive diversity, inclusion and growth.”
INFLUENTIAL LEADER
Commenting on the new role Hyter stated: “As an advisor to corporations, boards and CEOs, I have seen firsthand The ELC’s positive impact on Black executives, the Black talent pipeline, and the communities we serve. It is an honour to begin my leadership tenure as The ELC turns 35; at a time when our purpose and impact have never been more relevant and urgent.”
The ELC inducted Hyter as a member back in 1994. He joins The ELC from Korn Ferry; where he most recently served as Chief Diversity Officer of the global organisational consulting firm. He previously served as the Managing Partner of the firm’s Washington DC office. He is a recognised diversity and inclusion thought leader; and a trusted counsellor and advisor to Fortune 1000 companies across multiple industries and boards for more than 25 years.
In fact, Savoy Magazine has described Hyter as one of the “most influential Blacks in Corporate America”. He is the author of The Power of Choice: Embracing Efficacy to Drive Your Career; and he co-authored The Power of Inclusion: Unlock the Potential and Productivity of Your Workforce, published by Wiley. Hyter has also published extensive articles in publications; including the Handbook of Business Strategy, Director’s Monthly, Profiles in Diversity Journal and Inc.
GRATITUDE TO CRYSTAL ASHBY
Hyter succeeds Crystal Ashby, who has served as Interim President & CEO for the past 14 months. Ashby most recently served as The ELC’s Vice Chair. She stepped down from its Board to serve as Interim President and CEO to assist the organisation at a critical time. She is an Independent Director on the Board of Texas Reliability Entity, Inc (Texas RE). Ashby also serves on the University of Michigan College of EngineeringDean’s Leadership Advisory Board.
“The ELC extends our immeasurable appreciation and gratitude to Crystal for her commitment to our organisation during a critical time of transition,” stated Brown. “Crystal’s intellect and integrity were instrumental as we navigated the global pandemic and civil unrest of 2020. The entire ELC community proudly stands with Crystal and supports her in her external board work and leadership endeavours.”
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