Wells Fargo hosts diversity networking event

Wells Fargo’s Wealth and Investment Management (WIM) division organized a community networking event on Nov. 2. WIM Minnesota Market Leader Chris Murphy hosted the discussion on “Diverse Perspectives: Lessons Learned from Navigating Corporate Culture as a Diverse Leader,” along with Clarence Nunn, head of Diverse Segments for WIM, who was the featured keynote speaker.

The event was designed to bring together corporate representatives and a diverse group of local community members to establish a networking and relationship-building partnership.

More than 40 guests, from various sectors of the Twin Cities’ communities of color—primarily African American—attended the event including members of fraternities, sororities, social organizations, nonprofits, as well as other local organizations and associations. Representatives from Wells Fargo shared the company’s efforts in helping to create greater awareness around various types of career opportunities in the financial services industry, an industry that has traditionally been lacking in diversity for both communities of color and women.

The format for the program began with Nunn sharing key insights regarding his professional journey along with covering important aspects of how he managed to navigate his career progression through various major corporations including General Electric and J.P. Morgan Chase prior to joining Wells Fargo. Nunn also addressed sensitive issues impacting African Americans in the financial services industry and encouraged those in attendance to continue the momentum with future events aimed at opening the dialogue on these topics. Local diversity consultant, Bill Wells, served as moderator. 

The overall response to the event was positive, and an important step forward in providing an opportunity to address key issues around career and employment success with major financial services companies.  “Wells Fargo is committed to advancing diverse representation, equity, and inclusion, and this event was an important step in opening up critical dialogue to help make this happen,” added WIM’s Chris Murphy.