Priscilla Sims Brown

Professional Background and Leadership

Priscilla Sims Brown is a highly respected figure in the banking industry, known for her significant contributions and dedication to social and environmental causes. She is currently serving as the President and CEO of Amalgamated Bank, a role she began in June 2021. This position makes her the first Black woman to lead the bank. Her leadership is marked by a focus on empowering organizations and individuals to drive positive change.

Educational Background

Priscilla's educational background includes studies at San Francisco State University. Though specific details about her degree are not provided, her subsequent career path showcases the depth of her knowledge and expertise.

Early Career in Media

Her career began in the media industry, where she worked from 1980 to 1985 at various television news stations including KQED, KEMO, and WMAQ. She started as an intern and later became a business news producer and reporter. This foundation in communications would prove valuable throughout her career.

Transition to Financial Services

From there, Priscilla moved into the financial services sector. Between 1991 and 2009, she held multiple leadership roles at Lincoln Financial Group, including Chief Marketing Officer and President of Lincoln Financial Advisors. She then joined Sun Life Financial as the Head of Marketing U.S., overseeing marketing, branding, and strategic planning from 2009 to 2013.

Subsequent Leadership Roles

In April 2013, Priscilla became the Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing & Development Officer at AmeriHealth Caritas. Her role involved driving marketing and development efforts for the organization. She further expanded her leadership experience at AXA US as the Senior Executive Director, CMO, and Executive Committee Member from September 2014 to September 2016.

The following year, Priscilla took on multiple roles, including a stint as CEO of Emerge from October 2017 to August 2019. She was also a board member at TIAA from March 2018 to June 2021. Before joining Amalgamated Bank, she served as Group Executive at Commonwealth Bank of Australia, where she was responsible for rebuilding trust and pride in the bank.

Recognitions and Achievements

Priscilla's achievements extend beyond her professional roles. She has been recognized for her leadership and commitment to social responsibility, being named one of American Banker's "Most Powerful Women to Watch" in 2022 and listed in Forbes' "50 over 50" the same year. Crain’s New York Business also recognized her as a "Notable Black Leader" in 2022. Under her leadership, Amalgamated Bank became the first to set science-based targets to achieve net zero emissions by 2045.

Advocacy and Media Presence

Priscilla's advocacy spans various critical issues, including gun safety, voting rights, climate safety, and racial equity. Her influence is reflected in her frequent appearances in national media outlets like CBS News, CNBC, and Ebony.

Skills and Leadership Style

Throughout her career, Priscilla has accumulated valuable skills in marketing communications, financial services, strategic communications, investments, and business strategy. Her leadership style is often described as empowering and visionary, earning her the respect and admiration of her colleagues and teams.