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Aarón Enrique Almada
Social Impact Strategist | Entrepreneur | Community Builder
Professional Background
Aarón Enrique Almada is a highly accomplished professional with nearly two decades of dedicated experience in the fields of business consulting, program design, project management, and community relations. Currently, he is an integral member of Capital One's Community Impact & Investment team within the External Affairs division, where he serves as a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) strategist. In this pivotal role, Almada is at the forefront of designing and leading the enterprise's Racial Equity impact strategy and partnerships, showcasing his commitment to fostering meaningful change.
Prior to his current position, Almada joined Capital One in 2016, tasked with constructing a robust community investment and engagement strategy that would span the national footprint of Capital One Cafés. Over the course of four and a half years, he successfully managed community investments across 30 diverse markets and devised community-based strategies to fulfill the Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) regulatory obligations. Almada’s astute ability to leverage strategic partnerships facilitated hyperlocal business development, resulting in the establishment of nearly 100 partnerships. These alliances have not only bolstered business growth but also significantly enhanced Capital One's reputation within the communities it serves.
Among his notable efforts, Almada was the chief architect behind the Retail Bank’s National Signature Partnership with Dress for Success, which champions the economic independence and empowerment of women. At the time of the transition into his current role, the partnership had effectively impacted 20 Capital One markets. Furthermore, he took on the responsibility of leading the enterprise’s largest philanthropic portfolio, which emphasizes financial well-being initiatives aimed at helping individuals effectively manage debt and build credit.
Education and Achievements
A graduate of The University of Arizona, Almada earned an M.S. in Mexican American Studies, with a focus on Critical Education and Migration, as well as a B.A. in Political Science. His educational background laid a solid foundation for his career, equipping him with the knowledge and skills vital for understanding complex socio-political issues and community dynamics. Alongside his degrees, Almada also obtained a Certificate in Public Service from St. Albans School in Washington, D.C., underscoring his commitment to public service and community engagement.
Almada's commitment to Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DIB) is evident through his active participation in various internal initiatives at Capital One. As the Greater Washington Chapter Lead for the ¡HOLA! Hispanic Business Resource Group, he plays a crucial role in advocating for Hispanic employees and fostering an inclusive workplace culture. Additionally, he is an active member of the OutFront LGBTQ+ Business Resource Group and has spearheaded several cross-functional projects aimed at enhancing operational excellence within business resource groups.
Notable Organizations
In his previous roles, Almada has held several significant positions at the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI). There, he engaged in fundraising and program management functions, where he honed his expertise in philanthropic initiatives. His leadership capacities have also been recognized through various fellowship positions, including the Race Equity Culture™ Fellowship at Grantmakers for Effective Organizations (GEO) and the Diverse Leaders fellowship at Out & Equal. Furthermore, he participated in the U.S.-Mexico Leaders Initiative at the Center for American Progress, reinforcing his commitment to leadership and collaboration across borders.
Community Impact and Philanthropic Efforts
Throughout his career, Almada has consistently devoted time and effort to community impact and philanthropic endeavors. As a former Manager of Community Affairs and Principal Associate at Capital One, he has developed a reputation for outlining strategic community engagement initiatives that align with corporate social responsibility goals. His approach not only emphasizes the importance of financial well-being but also seeks to uplift and empower underrepresented populations.
His earlier career as a manager at CHCI equipped him with the necessary skills to understand the significance of strategic engagement in philanthropy, particularly in supporting the Hispanic community. He has continued this important work by creating avenues for financial empowerment and community development throughout his roles at Capital One.
Conclusion
Aarón Enrique Almada's journey from Ciudad Obregón, Sonora, México, to becoming a leader in CSR at Capital One showcases not only his professional expertise but also his unwavering dedication to the principles of equity, diversity, and the upliftment of communities. Residing in Greater Washington, D.C., Almada embodies the spirit of inclusion and strives to create meaningful partnerships that have a lasting impact on society. His work serves as an inspiring example of how purposeful leadership can drive significant change within communities and organizations alike, paving the way for future leaders in the field.
Achievements
- Led the design and implementation of Capital One’s Racial Equity impact strategy.
- Managed community investments across 30 diverse markets, enhancing community engagement and meeting CRA obligations.
- Established nearly 100 partnerships aimed at promoting hyperlocal business development.
- Chief designer of the National Signature Partnership with Dress for Success.
- Managed the largest philanthropic portfolio at Capital One focused on financial well-being initiatives.
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