Fixing the ‘Broken Rung’: Empowering Latinas to Rise in Corporate America

New York Wire Staff

By: Publicity For Good

JRCC Founder Jessica Rivera Urges for Action on the Underrepresentation of Latina Leaders in Corporate America

New York, NY., (September, 2024) – The latest reports from Lean In and the Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility (HACR) highlight a troubling reality: Latinas remain severely underrepresented in corporate leadership. In honor of National Hispanic Heritage Month, Jessica Rivera, founder of JR Coaching and Consulting (JRCC), urges companies to take action and create pathways for Latinas to rise into leadership roles. According to Lean In, Latinas hold only 4.9% of entry-level jobs, 3.3% of managerial roles, and just 1% of C-suite positions. HACR’s 2023 Corporate Inclusion Index adds that Latinas occupy only 2% of board seats, underscoring the systemic barriers limiting their advancement.

Fixing the 'Broken Rung' Latinas in Corporate America — Photo Courtesy: Lean In

The Broken Rung and Systemic Barriers

The Lean In report highlights the “broken rung” as a key barrier for Latinas, who face systemic challenges such as limited access to networks, mentorship, and visibility. According to HACR, while Hispanics make up 18% of the U.S. workforce, they are overrepresented in nonexempt roles with fewer benefits and advancement opportunities. With 73% of Hispanic workers in these positions, the issue of underemployment persists. Despite their ambition, Latinas often lack the necessary support to advance, making it essential for companies to dismantle these barriers and foster more inclusive practices.

Ambition vs. Opportunity

Latinas show high ambition, often more than their white female peers, yet face a significant opportunity gap. The HACR report reveals that while Hispanics make up 18% of the U.S. workforce, only 5% hold executive roles, with Latinas occupying less than 1% of C-suite positions. Despite widespread mentorship and succession planning programs, about one-third of companies lack clear metrics for evaluating these initiatives, impeding meaningful progress and leaving Latinas underrepresented in leadership.

Breaking Barriers: The Early Challenges Facing Latinas in Corporate America

The data reveals that the corporate pipeline is broken for Latinas from the very beginning. In 2022, only 13% of interns at participating companies identified as Hispanic, underscoring the need for greater investment in early talent development. Furthermore, fewer than 1% of supplier companies were Hispanic-owned, and just 1% of total procurement spend was with Hispanic-owned businesses, showing that economic inclusion is also lagging behind.

Economic and Business Impact

The underrepresentation of Latinas in corporate leadership is not just a diversity concern—it’s a missed business opportunity. Research shows that companies with diverse leadership teams outperform financially, and as industries face global challenges, leaders with varied perspectives, like Latinas, offer crucial insights and innovation. Latinas bring unique cultural perspectives and adaptability that can drive growth in organizations prioritizing inclusivity, making their representation in leadership roles a key factor for business transformation.

Fixing the 'Broken Rung' Latinas in Corporate America_3 — Photo Courtesy: Jessica Rivera

How JR Coaching and Consulting Can Help

With over two decades of corporate leadership experience, Jessica Rivera specializes in helping companies develop diverse and inclusive leadership teams. JRCC offers tailored coaching programs that focus on developing authentic leadership skills while enhancing emotional intelligence, communication, and networking strategies—skills essential for career advancement.

As a client, Katrina, shared, “In the short period of time that I have worked with Jessica, she has coached me to be a stronger, more focused, and mindful professional. Over the last 6 months, I have solidified time management personally, professionally refocused the value and nurtured my abilities. Jessica has been foundational to my journey.”

JRCC aims to dismantle the barriers that hinder Latina advancement and foster a culture of belonging that drives business success. Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month by opening opportunities for Latina leaders to rise in the world of corporate America.

For more information about JR Coaching and Consulting visit their official website.

About JR Coaching and Consulting

Founded by Jessica Rivera, JR Coaching and Consulting (JRCC) provides holistic coaching and consulting services aimed at empowering individuals and organizations to reach their full potential. With a focus on authentic leadership and emotional intelligence, JRCC specializes in helping leaders succeed in both in-person and remote environments. Rivera brings over 17 years of corporate leadership experience, including leading high-performance teams, making her a trusted resource for companies looking to foster inclusive and effective leadership strategies.