Accion Executive and Leadership Team

Michael Schlein, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Accion, directs the organization's overarching strategy and global operations. Schlein guides Accion's mission to build a financially inclusive world, focusing on expanding access to capital for underserved entrepreneurs. This leadership involves driving innovation in fintech and microfinance, ensuring the organization's impact investing arm effectively deploys capital to achieve measurable social and financial returns. Overseeing all functional areas, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with Accion's core values and strategic objectives. Michael Schlein's role is critical in shaping the organization's partnerships and advocating for policies that support financial inclusion worldwide. The executive's focus remains on scaling Accion's reach and deepening its impact across diverse markets, particularly in North America and other key regions where financial exclusion presents significant challenges.

William Burrus, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Accion, spearheads the strategic direction and operational execution of the organization. Burrus focuses on advancing Accion's legacy in microfinance and its expansion into fintech impact investing. This leadership position involves cultivating key relationships with financial institutions, policymakers, and philanthropic partners to broaden the company's global footprint. The President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that Accion's initiatives effectively address the needs of underserved populations, driving sustainable economic growth. William Burrus's oversight extends to championing innovative financial solutions that empower entrepreneurs and small businesses, particularly in regions requiring robust financial infrastructure. The executive's commitment is to amplify Accion's mission of financial inclusion through strategic growth and operational excellence.

Susan Clancy, the Chief Financial Officer at Accion, manages the organization's financial health and strategic resource allocation. Clancy oversees all aspects of financial planning, budgeting, and reporting, ensuring fiscal responsibility across Accion's global operations. This role is pivotal in supporting Accion's mission of microfinance and fintech impact investing by securing and managing the capital necessary for program expansion. The Chief Financial Officer works closely with leadership to develop financial models that maximize social impact while maintaining financial sustainability. Susan Clancy's expertise is crucial in navigating complex financial landscapes and optimizing investment strategies to serve underserved communities effectively. The executive's responsibilities include managing risk, ensuring compliance, and driving financial efficiency throughout the organization.

Wole Ralph, the HR Chief Financial Officer & Director at Accion, integrates human capital management with financial oversight to support the organization's strategic goals. Ralph directs human resources functions, ensuring Accion attracts, develops, and retains top talent essential for its microfinance and fintech impact investing initiatives. Simultaneously, this executive manages key financial operations, contributing to the fiscal stability required for global program delivery. The HR Chief Financial Officer & Director plays a vital role in aligning employee development and compensation strategies with the company's financial performance and mission objectives. Wole Ralph's dual focus ensures that Accion's workforce is equipped and motivated to drive financial inclusion. The executive's leadership fosters a culture of performance and accountability across all departments.

Salua Smith, the President's Council at Accion, provides strategic counsel and leadership support to the President & Chief Executive Officer. Smith contributes to the advancement of Accion's mission in microfinance and fintech impact investing through high-level advisory roles. This position involves collaborating with senior leadership to identify new opportunities and address complex challenges facing the organization. The President's Council member offers insights derived from extensive experience to guide strategic decision-making and operational improvements. Salua Smith's involvement is key to ensuring Accion maintains its focus on empowering underserved communities and driving financial inclusion. The executive's contributions help shape the long-term vision and impact of Accion's global initiatives.

Esteban Altschul, the President, Accion Impact Management at Accion, leads the organization's dedicated impact investing arm. Altschul directs strategies for deploying capital into businesses and funds that promote financial inclusion for underserved populations. This leadership role is central to Accion's fintech and microfinance impact investing efforts, focusing on generating both social and financial returns. The President, Accion Impact Management oversees investment sourcing, due diligence, portfolio management, and impact measurement across diverse markets. Esteban Altschul's expertise is crucial in identifying and nurturing innovative ventures that scale financial access. The executive's work directly supports Accion's mission by channeling resources to where they can create the most significant positive change globally.

Chris Coxon, the Chief Communications Officer at Accion, shapes and disseminates the organization's narrative and brand identity globally. Coxon leads all external and internal communications strategies, highlighting Accion's impact in microfinance and fintech innovation. This role is essential for building awareness, fostering stakeholder engagement, and advocating for financial inclusion. The Chief Communications Officer manages media relations, digital presence, and content creation to effectively communicate Accion's mission and achievements. Chris Coxon's efforts are critical in positioning Accion as a leader in the impact investing space and attracting support for its programs. The executive's focus includes amplifying the stories of entrepreneurs empowered by Accion's services and reinforcing the organization's commitment to underserved markets.