CELEBRATING HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH
Eduardo Tobon Diners Club International What does it mean to be a part of the fastest growing minority in the U.S.? Being part of the fastest-growing minority in the U.S. gives me a sense of collegiality and connectivity. It is as if I am part of a very large family. Belonging to this family means that we, as Hispanics, have the power to make a difference, be innovative, and positively impact our communities. What are the major values of your heritage? How have they helped you in your career? My greatest value is the love for my family, but in addition to family, my heritage has taught me the values of curiosity, creativity, and imagination. What advice would you give the next generation of Hispanic business leaders? What are some tips for other Hispanics beginning their careers? My best advice for the next generation of Hispanic business leaders is to recognize the importance of networking. As a leader, it is important to build relationships, both personally and professionally. These relationships will help young leaders better navigate the global workplace. I’ve been fortunate to be a part of successful Hispanic and/or Latino organizations, including the Association of Latino Professionals in Finance and Accounting (ALPFA) and Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility (HACR). These organizations provide great opportunities for emerging leaders and represent Hispanics well. In addition to networking, I advise the next generation to pursue passions while seeking challenges. Passion for a career and respect towards colleagues will guide young professionals to exciting opportunities.
HEADQUARTERS: Riverwoods, Illinois WEBSITE: www.dinersclub.com BUSINESS: Financial services EMPLOYEES: 80 Title: President Education: BS, Universidad EAFIT, Medellin, Columbia; MBA, Carnegie Mellon University
Last Book I Read: The Discipline & Culture of Innovation, by Jay Rao Interests: Family, friends, golf, travel, social media, and supporting children’s organizations
Manlio Valdés Ingersoll Rand What does it mean to be a part of the fastest growing minority in the U.S.? Over the last twenty years, the media and political focus on Hispanics has increased considerably, both on positive and negative issues. With this increased attention, which I consider a great privilege, comes a higher level of responsibility to be a positive force in our country. How has your heritage been beneficial or helpful in your career and/or business relationships? Having a duality of cultures has given me the ability to bridge between cultures, positions, and general viewpoints. My career has been built on this foundation. It has been a professional accelerator opening up opportunities in different areas of the world. What advice would you give the next generation of Hispanic business leaders? What are some tips for other Hispanics beginning their careers? Early in my career, I decided I wanted to be a business leader of substance and relevant to the teams I worked with. I’m not sure if my Hispanic culture was used as a qualifier or not, but this is not of importance to me. While I am proud of my heritage, I am also privileged to work for a company where I have always been judged on merit and treated the same as everyone else. I know other Hispanic leaders that may disagree with my approach. I respect their decision though. My advice to the next generation of Hispanic leaders is to make a decision as to how they want to define themselves and not let outside demands interfere.
HEADQUARTERS: Swords, Ireland
WEBSITE: www.ingersollrand.com BUSINESS: Diversified industrial REVENUES: $14 billion EMPLOYEES: 46,000 title: President, Europe, Middle East, India & Africa, Climate Solutions
Education: BSE, Duke University; MBA, Florida International University
Last Book I REad: The Peace to End All Peace, by David Fromkin My Perfect Day: Out on the water with my family Interests: Scuba diving, reading, and traveling
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PROFILES IN DIVERSITY JOURNAL
September/October 2013