SomosVC Names José Piñero as Executive Director to Strengthen Latino Representation in Venture Capital

SomosVC has announced the appointment of José Piñero as Executive Director, effective immediately. Piñero brings more than 20 years of experience in business leadership, nonprofit governance, and Latino empowerment to the role, where he will guide the organization's expansion of representation for Latino and allied professionals in venture capital.

In his new position, Piñero will focus on broadening opportunities for Latino and allied talent in venture capital, strengthening partnerships with venture firms, corporations, and foundations, and growing the organization's reach through scalable programs, heightened visibility, and advocacy efforts. His appointment comes at a time when diversity in venture capital remains a critical issue, with Latino professionals significantly underrepresented in the industry.

"We are thrilled to welcome José Piñero as our Executive Director," said Joanna Lichter, Board President of SomosVC. "José brings a proven track record in fundraising, organizational leadership, and board governance. More importantly, he has been a national voice for Latino and allies for decades. His vision will enable SomosVC to strengthen the VC talent pipeline, elevate emerging managers, and deliver measurable impact for our partners and the ecosystem."

Piñero's background includes senior leadership positions at Microsoft and Procter & Gamble, as well as significant nonprofit experience. He previously chaired the board of Hopelink, the largest community services nonprofit in Seattle's Eastside, where he co-led a multi-million dollar capital campaign. He has also served on the boards of Global Partnerships and the International Coaching Federation Foundation.

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

SomosVC operates as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization focused on unlocking opportunities for Latino and allies in venture capital through programs including fellowship and mentorship initiatives, Avanza Summit, Eleva, Emerging Manager Showcase, and Annual Summit. The organization develops talent pipelines, elevates emerging managers, and convenes stakeholders to reshape the VC ecosystem while producing data-driven thought leadership through its flagship impact report. Additional information about the organization's mission and programs is available at https://www.somos.vc.