Cleveland-based KeyCorp named Helena Haynes-Carter its new Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer to lead the strategy and tactics to improve the acquisition, development, and retention of diverse talent and suppliers, the company announced.
“We are honored to welcome Helena to KeyBank. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are cornerstones of our culture – representing both who we are and how we do business. Helena will bring energy, experience, and innovation that will advance our long-standing commitment to diversity and inclusion in our workplace, our workforce, and our marketplace,” said Chris Gorman, KeyCorp Chairman and CEO.
Helena joins Key after being in a similar role for UnitedHealth Group, where she orchestrated a $14M response with community-based organizations throughout the U.S., deploying over 30,000 COVID-19 tests, wrap-around services, and care referrals. She has also held past roles at organizations including U.S. Bancorp, Rocky Mountain Minority Supplier Development Council, Xcel Energy, and Colorado Housing and Finance Authority.
Banks and other financial institutions have been under fire for not doing enough to recruit people of color, especially in the leadership ranks. Key’s latest hire is a sign the industry is focused on changing those statistics and perceptions.
Helena holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Marketing Management from the University of Colorado and an MBA from Hamline University.