Wall Street Trailblazer and Diversity Advocate
Carla Harris
Carla Harris is an American businesswoman, author, and gospel singer who gained prominence for her distinguished career on Wall Street and her advocacy for diversity and inclusion in the corporate world. Born on October 10, 1962, in Port Arthur, Texas, Harris displayed exceptional talent and drive from a young age, excelling academically and musically.
Harris attended Harvard University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics and later receiving her MBA from Harvard Business School. Armed with a solid educational foundation, she embarked on her professional journey, ultimately leading her to become one of the most respected figures on Wall Street.
In 1987, Harris began her career at Morgan Stanley, one of the world's leading investment banks, where she initially worked as an investment banker in the Mergers and Acquisitions department. Over the years, she held various leadership positions, including Managing Director in the Equity Capital Markets division and Head of the Emerging Manager Platform.
Throughout her tenure at Morgan Stanley, Carla Harris distinguished herself as a trailblazer and a champion for diversity and inclusion in the financial services industry. She was one of the earliest advocates for increasing the representation of women and people of color in leadership positions, and she played a pivotal role in shaping the firm's diversity initiatives.
In addition to her corporate leadership roles, Carla Harris is also an accomplished author and speaker. She has authored two best-selling books, "Expect to Win: 10 Proven Strategies for Thriving in the Workplace" and "Strategize to Win: The New Way to Start, Step Up, or Start Over in Your Career." Harris shares valuable insights and strategies for success in these books based on her experiences and observations.
Carla Harris is also a talented gospel singer and recording artist, and she has released several albums showcasing her musical talents. She has performed at various venues and events, using her music as a platform to inspire and uplift others.
Carla Harris has received numerous awards and accolades throughout her career for her professional achievements and contributions to diversity and inclusion. She has been recognized by organizations such as Fortune magazine, which named her one of the "50 Most Powerful Black Executives in Corporate America," and Essence magazine, which included her on its list of the "50 Women Who Are Changing the World."
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Carla Harris is actively involved in philanthropy and community service. She serves on the boards of several nonprofit organizations, including the Morgan Stanley Foundation and the Apollo Theater Foundation, where she works to support education, youth development, and the arts.
In summary, Carla Harris is a dynamic and influential leader who has made significant contributions to the corporate world and beyond. Through her work as a businesswoman, author, speaker, and advocate, she has inspired countless individuals to strive for excellence, embrace diversity, and positively impact their communities and industries.