Accion Executive and Leadership Team

Michael Schlein, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Accion, directs the global strategic vision for this non-profit organization. Overseeing the expansion of microfinance initiatives, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that fintech impact investing reaches underserved markets across diverse international regions. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the Board to refine the mission of providing financial access to those excluded from traditional banking systems. By championing innovative investment models, Michael Schlein directly influences the scalability of financial solutions for small business owners. The President & Chief Executive Officer maintains a focus on long-term sustainability, ensuring that the organization remains at the forefront of the global financial inclusion movement. Through rigorous oversight of operational goals, Schlein secures the necessary resources to drive meaningful social change and economic growth in emerging markets worldwide.

Paulo Silva, the Chief Financial Officer at Accion, oversees the fiscal health and capital management strategies of the organization. Directing the financial planning and analysis departments, the Chief Financial Officer ensures that all investments in microfinance and fintech remain aligned with the long-term mission of the company. This role involves managing complex budgetary requirements and reporting to the Board regarding the financial performance of various impact funds. By implementing robust financial controls, Paulo Silva mitigates risk while maximizing the availability of funds for global initiatives. The Chief Financial Officer coordinates with other executive leaders to ensure that capital deployment supports the overarching goals of financial inclusion. Through meticulous oversight of the balance sheet and investment portfolio, Silva maintains the financial stability necessary for the organization to continue providing essential services to underserved populations across the globe.

Wole Ralph, the HR Chief Financial Officer & Director at Accion, manages the intersection of human capital development and financial resource allocation. Overseeing the internal talent strategy, the HR Chief Financial Officer & Director ensures that the organization attracts and retains the expertise required to advance complex fintech and microfinance projects. This role involves balancing the budgetary needs of the human resources department with the broader financial objectives of the company. By aligning workforce planning with organizational growth, Wole Ralph optimizes the efficiency of the internal team. The HR Chief Financial Officer & Director collaborates with leadership to foster a culture of innovation and accountability. Through strategic management of personnel costs and talent development programs, Ralph supports the operational capacity of the organization, ensuring that the workforce remains equipped to tackle the challenges of global financial inclusion.

Esteban Altschul, the President, Accion Impact Management at Accion, leads the specialized division focused on the rigorous assessment and management of impact investments. Overseeing the portfolio of fintech and microfinance assets, the President, Accion Impact Management ensures that every investment delivers measurable social and financial returns. This role involves evaluating the performance of various funds and adjusting strategies to meet the evolving needs of the global market. By maintaining high standards for impact measurement, Esteban Altschul provides the transparency required by investors and partners. The President, Accion Impact Management collaborates with the broader executive team to integrate impact data into the overall strategic direction of the company. Through the careful management of investment portfolios, Altschul drives the success of the organization's mission, ensuring that capital is deployed effectively to foster economic empowerment in underserved communities.

Chris Coxon, the Chief Marketing Officer and Chief Communications Officer at Accion, directs the global brand strategy and public messaging for the organization. Overseeing the dissemination of the company's mission, the Chief Marketing Officer and Chief Communications Officer ensures that the impact of microfinance and fintech initiatives resonates with stakeholders and potential partners. This role involves crafting narratives that highlight the success of financial inclusion programs in diverse geographic regions. By managing external communications, Chris Coxon builds the reputation of the organization as a leader in the impact investing space. The Chief Marketing Officer and Chief Communications Officer works closely with the executive team to ensure that all messaging aligns with the strategic goals of the company. Through targeted outreach and brand positioning, Coxon expands the visibility of the organization, attracting the support necessary to drive continued growth and social impact.

Enrique Ferraro, the Managing Director at Accion, manages the execution of complex financial inclusion programs across key operational territories. Coordinating with regional teams, the Managing Director identifies high-impact opportunities for microfinance deployment in developing economies. This role requires deep engagement with local partners to ensure that fintech solutions align with the specific needs of marginalized communities. By optimizing program delivery, Enrique Ferraro enhances the efficiency of capital allocation for maximum social return. The Managing Director monitors performance metrics to ensure that all initiatives meet the rigorous standards set by the organization. Through strategic planning and cross-functional coordination, Ferraro drives the expansion of the company's footprint in critical growth markets. This leadership position remains vital for maintaining the operational integrity of the organization while scaling the reach of financial services to millions of individuals seeking economic stability.

Maria Hermida, the Chief Legal, Compliance and Risk Officer at Accion, directs the legal framework and risk management protocols for the organization. Overseeing the compliance department, the Chief Legal, Compliance and Risk Officer ensures that all international operations adhere to the complex regulatory requirements of the fintech and microfinance sectors. This role involves identifying potential risks and implementing mitigation strategies to protect the integrity of the organization's global initiatives. By providing legal guidance on investment structures, Maria Hermida enables the company to navigate challenging legal landscapes in emerging markets. The Chief Legal, Compliance and Risk Officer works with the Board to maintain the highest standards of governance and ethical conduct. Through the proactive management of legal and compliance matters, Hermida secures the operational foundation of the company, allowing for the safe and effective delivery of financial services to those in need.