Christopher A. Espinoza

Chris Espinoza is a global expert in leading efforts to recruit, retain, and advance diverse talent, building an inclusive culture where employees feel a sense of belonging, and aligning Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion strategies to business objectives. Chris experience spans more than two decades, and he has successfully implemented DEI strategies at some of the worlds most well-known companies. Chris is co-author of the book The Latin X Factor: How to Recruit, Retain, and Develop an Often Invisible Community, and his roles have included Sr. Director of Diversity, Inclusion & Belonging at Capital One, Director of Global Diversity of Inclusion at NIKE, Inc., Director & Head of Diversity & Inclusion at Rackspace Technology, Lead Associate of Diversity & Inclusion at Booz Allen Hamilton, Diversity Relationship Manager at Prudential Financial, and supporting the NBAs San Antonio Spurs and Portland Trail Blazers franchise as they developed their DEI strategies. Chris spent his formative years growing up in San Diego, California. His family originates from the small border town of Nogales, Arizona. Chris spent much of his youth attending family Carne Asadas or BBQs. He will never forget the joy he had watching how much his large Mexican family cared for each other. There was always singing, dancing, laughing, and lots of great Mexican food. This experience embedded a deep sense of the importance of family and belonging which Chris still holds dear to this day. Chris holds a B. A. from the University of Arizona - continuing a family tradition of being proud Wildcats. He was humbled to receive a full scholarship to the University of Phoenix through his membership with the Association of Latino Professionals for America (ALPFA) - Chris earned a Master of Management from the University of Phoenix. Chris also holds an Executive Leadership Certificate from Cornell University. Chris finds join in life through service to others. He believes in leaving the world a better place than he found it. The field of People, Culture, & Belonging is not only a business imperative to Chris but also a means to help create a better future for the next generation. Being a competitive boxer has taught him never to give up, never to give in, and never stop fighting for what you believe in. Chris loves spending time with his three wonderful children and his mini goldendoodle. His faith plays a huge role in his life and belief that leaving the world a better place and serving others is a higher calling. A passionate sports fan, he avidly supports his Arizona Wildcats and Los Angeles Chargers.