Asian Americans lag in corporate leadership, says LG Energy Solution exec

Key facts

• Asian Americans are underrepresented in corporate leadership roles.
• Asian Americans have high educational attainment.
• Asian professionals may be overlooked or ignored in the workplace.
• Discrimination against Asian Americans is often less recognized.
• Jyoti Chopra discussed how her identity shaped her career.
• Jyoti Chopra previously held roles at MGM Resorts International, Pearson Plc, and Bank of New York.

Asian Americans are significantly underrepresented in corporate leadership roles, a disparity that persists despite their high levels of educational attainment. Bob Lee, President of LG Energy Solution North America, pointed to a notable gap in representation when compared to other demographic groups within corporate structures. This underrepresentation suggests systemic barriers that prevent Asian professionals from advancing to senior positions.

Further compounding these challenges, Steph So, Chief Marketing Officer at Xponential Fitness, expressed concerns that Asian professionals may be overlooked or ignored in the workplace. This is attributed to racial biases that can subtly impact career progression and recognition. Research indicates that discrimination against Asian Americans is often less recognized than against other groups, leading to fewer interventions and less favorable outcomes in discrimination claims. This lack of recognition can perpetuate a cycle of disadvantage.

Jyoti Chopra, Executive Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at Hertz, offered a perspective on how personal identity intersects with professional advancement. Chopra, who previously held senior positions at MGM Resorts International, Pearson Plc, and Bank of New York, shared insights into how her identity has shaped her career trajectory. Her experience underscores the diverse paths and unique challenges faced by professionals from various backgrounds within the corporate world.