Brenda Wright
President, Brenda Wright Consulting Group
“I am humbled by this recognition. I was taught to always look out for my family and friend, so this is how I've lived my life. It became evident that as a Woman of Color, I would have challenges and so would many others. There are times when we all need help and it's up to us to lend a hand.” - Brenda
Q & A With Brenda
How Have You And Your Company Worked To Elevate Women?
I have personally seen and experienced discrimination, so being the voice for equality is who I am. I served on the first Diversity Committee Wells Fargo created. We looked at diversity across the enterprise and created a strategy to deal with the lack of women, African Americans, Hispanics and Asians. Changes were made in how we recruited for open positions, internships, mentoring programs and promotional opportunities. We also worked with several nonprofits to create training programs for low income women.
What Makes You Feel Successful?
When I see people who reported to me become leaders of their own teams, I know I have done something right.
What Would You Tell Anyone Who Is Starting Off Their Career?
I would tell them to find their passion and go for it! Always remember that "you have a voice" and should use it to make a difference.
What Is The Best Business Advice You’ve Ever Received?
Share your power and put your voice in the room. Being courageous is a must!
About Brenda
Brenda Wright is the President of Brenda Wright LLC, a consulting firm that specializes in Organization Management in the For Profit and Non-Profit Sector. A highly regarded leader and community advocate with experience in both the business and nonprofit sector. An energetic strategist, with an ability to analyze complex business situations, she has a proven track record of creating innovative solutions, building alliances and leading teams to optimal performances.
A retired 34-year Senior Executive with Wells Fargo, she was the Leader of the Corporate Philanthropy and Community Relations for the West Region, serving California, Washington, Oregon and Alaska. She was responsible for strategizing and managing the execution of community advancement initiatives building strategic partnerships for Community benefit. She also managed an annual budget of $60 million in philanthropic giving, team member volunteerism, and other initiatives that supported financial growth in low-to-moderate income communities.
A financial service veteran, Wright’s previous roles included Division Manager in Premier Banking leading 80 Bankers with portfolios of high-net-worth clients. She also served as San Francisco District Manager, overseeing 30 branches with assets ranging from $65 to $300 million in deposits.
The Missouri native is an active leader and member of several community organizations. She has been appointed to several Commissions by both the Mayors of San Francisco and the Governors of California. She currently serves on the War Memorial Board, The Board of the Commonwealth Club, Fine Arts Museum. and the California Department of Financial Protection & Innovation Steering Committee. She recently joined the Board of BB&K Holding Inc. a for-profit Investment Management Corporation.
In recognition of her commitment to community service over the years, Wright has received numerous awards:
Woman of the Year Award: Presented by California State Senate
Commendation from Senator Diane Feinstein for her work on Elimination of Discrimination Against Women
100 Most Influential Women in Business in the Bay Area
Corporate Service Award: National Coalition of 100 Black Women
Woman Philanthropist Award presented by Mayor London Breed
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