Michael Hyter named CEO of The Executive Leadership Council

Black advancement organization The Executive Leadership Council has named Michael Hyter, the former chief diversity officer of Korn Ferry, as its new president and CEO.

Founded in 1986, The Executive Leadership Council (The ELC) is a DC-based nonprofit dedicated to increasing the number of global Black executives in C-suites, boards, and enterprises. The organization’s membership is composed of 800 current and former Black CEOs, executives, board directors, and entrepreneurs.

Hyter succeeds Crystal Ashby, who served as interim president and CEO for the last 14 months. He brings more than 25 years of consulting and executive experience in diversity and inclusion (D&I) and leadership development.

"On behalf of our more than 800 members around the world, I am very pleased to welcome Michael Hyter as President & CEO," said Lloyd Brown II, board chair of The ELC and corporate community reinvestment act officer for Citigroup. "Mike's demonstrated track record of advocating for Black Excellence in Corporate America and innovating measurable D&I strategies to improve corporate governance and performance is inspiring."

Hyter joins The ELC from organizational consultancy Korn Ferry, where he most recently served as chief diversity officer. Since joining the firm in 2012, he played a key role in building Korn Ferry’s D&I practice. Hyter also previously led the consulting firm’s DC office, overseeing a $60 million operation with 120 team members.

Prior to that, he spent 11 years at D&I consultancy Global Novations (acquired by Korn Ferry), where he served as president, managing partner, and board director. Hyter was responsible for global operations and a $40 million business with 250 staff. He also oversaw mergers & acquisitions, performance management, budgeting, and competitor analysis.

Before that, he was a managing partner at J. Howard & Associates, a professional training and coaching firm. He holds a bachelor’s degree in human resources management from Michigan State University.

Also a successful author, Hyter’s books include “The Power of Choice: Embracing Efficacy to Drive Your Career” and “The Power of Inclusion: Unlock the Potential and Productivity of Your Workforce.”

“As an advisor to corporations, boards, and CEOs, I have seen firsthand The ELC's positive impact on Black executives, the Black talent pipeline, and the communities we serve," said Hyter. "It is an honor to begin my leadership tenure as The ELC turns 35, at a time when our purpose and impact have never been more relevant and urgent.”