Why Join The Council

The Executive Leadership Council has been the membership organization of choice for all of the African-American CEOs who have led Fortune 500 companies. Nearly 200 current or former CEOs have taken part in our Annual CEO Diversity Summit since its inception in 2001.

Member Snapshot
With a growing membership of Fortune 500 CEO’s, other c-suite executives, divisional presidents, corporate board members, and other senior executives, entrepreneurs, and legacy members, The Council is poised for even greater impact in the years ahead. Members of The Executive Leadership Council contribute to a growing body of knowledge about cultural competence and excellence in business through mentorship, cutting-edge research, publications, and education. The Council’s female membership has grown consistently over the years, with its membership increasing from 29% in 2003 to 33% currently.

The Council’s membership represents one of the most knowledgeable brain trusts on corporate leadership globally and across industries. The total combined years of executive leadership represented by our members is in excess of 15,000. The average member has 27 years of corporate experience, and oversight of $4 to $6 billion dollars, with the majority of members having global responsibility. While our membership is strongest in the northeast and midwest, the south and international markets are also well represented, with the average member overseeing between 1500 to 1800 subordinates across all major industries.