BEM Gold
C-Suite Accelerator for Black Male Managers & Directors
C-Suite Success
BEM Gold is a C-Suite Accelerator and high-powered leadership development program designed exclusively for top-performing Black male managers and directors who are ready to make the leap into senior executive roles. Our mission is to lead 10,000 Black male managers and directors to the C-suite, providing the strategy, sponsorship, and visibility needed to transition from mid-level management to senior leadership or the C-suite in 3 to 5 years.
Why This Program?
Black male managers and directors face unique challenges in reaching the C-suite. Many spend years stuck at mid-level roles because they:
Lack direct access to senior executives who can open doors
Struggle with strategic positioning to be seen as C-suite material
Don’t have strong sponsorship to get into high-level leadership pipelines
Haven’t mastered enterprise-level leadership required at the executive level
Black male managers and directors often face unique barriers that keep them from reaching the C-suite. Many find themselves stuck in mid-level roles due to challenges such as a lack of direct access to senior executives, difficulty in positioning themselves as C-suite material, limited sponsorship, and an absence of enterprise-level leadership experience.
Without direct connections to senior decision-makers, these professionals struggle to gain visibility and opportunities for advancement. They may also lack the strategic vision required to be seen as leaders capable of driving company-wide initiatives. Additionally, without a strong sponsor advocating for them, it becomes harder to gain entry into high-level leadership pipelines.
Furthermore, without mastering the broader, enterprise-wide leadership skills needed at the executive level, Black male professionals can find it difficult to transition to senior roles.
This program overcomes these obstacles by providing direct access to corporate leaders, executive strategy training, and a powerful peer network. It ensures that participants not only advance but do so with the influence, confidence, and clarity required to thrive at the C-suite level.
Corporate Black Men History
1960s: Breaking Barriers
In the 1960s, Black men began entering corporate America in small numbers, often as trailblazers in predominantly white spaces. James Avery, one of the first Black executives at IBM, paved the way for others in the tech industry. During this era, Black men represented less than 1% of corporate leadership roles.
1970s: Building Foundations
The 1970s saw increased representation of Black men in corporate roles, particularly in entry-level and middle-management positions. Clifton Wharton Jr. became the first Black CEO of a Fortune 500 company, TIAA-CREF, setting a precedent for leadership in finance. By the end of the decade, Black men held approximately 2% of managerial roles.
1980s: Rising Through the Ranks
By the 1980s, more Black men were advancing into mid-level management roles. Frank Savage became a prominent figure in finance, serving on the boards of companies like Lockheed Martin and Qualcomm. During this decade, Black men represented about 3% of mid-level managers but remained underrepresented in senior leadership.
1990s: Gaining Visibility
The 1990s saw increased visibility of Black men in corporate leadership. Ken Chenault rose to prominence at American Express, eventually becoming CEO, while Stanley O’Neal became CEO of Merrill Lynch. By the late 1990s, Black men held roughly 4% of senior management roles but still faced significant barriers to the C-suite.
2000s: Breaking the Glass Ceiling
The 2000s marked a turning point, with Black men achieving notable leadership positions. Don Thompson became CEO of McDonald’s, and Richard Parsons served as CEO of Time Warner. Despite these successes, Black men represented only about 1.5% of Fortune 500 CEOs by the end of the decade.
2010s: Expanding Influence
In the 2010s, Black men continued to expand their influence. Kenneth Frazier led Merck as CEO, and Marvin Ellison became CEO of JCPenney and later Lowe’s. By 2020, Black men held approximately 3% of executive roles in Fortune 500 companies, reflecting slow but steady progress.
Today: A New Era of Leadership
Today, Black men are making strides in corporate leadership, though representation remains low. They hold about 3.2% of executive roles and 1.4% of CEO positions in Fortune 500 companies. Networks like Black Executive Men (BEM) Gold are accelerating progress through mentorship, sponsorship, and leadership development.
What’s Included in BEM Gold?
Fireside Chats with Senior Black Male Executives
Personalized Peer Networking & Accountability
12-Month Executive Blueprint Education
Exclusive In-Person Masterminds
Daily Executive Briefings
PRogram Details
1. Fireside Chats with Senior Black Male Executives
Breaking into the C-suite requires more than ambition—it demands insider knowledge, strategic relationships, and direct access to those who have already paved the way. That’s why BEM Gold offers weekly fireside chats with senior Black male executives from Fortune 500 companies and top industries.
These exclusive, closed-door conversations provide a rare opportunity to engage with executives who have successfully navigated the corporate landscape, offering unfiltered insights, candid advice, and real-world strategies that are rarely shared in public forums.
What Makes These Sessions Game-Changing?
Direct Access to Senior Leaders – Learn firsthand from Black executives who have broken barriers, secured top positions, and mastered the unspoken rules of corporate advancement.
Unfiltered, Behind-the-Scenes Insights – Get a raw, inside look at how high-level decisions are really made, how power dynamics operate, and what it takes to lead at the highest levels.
Premier Relationship-Building – Engage with executives who aren’t just mentors—they have the influence to become sponsors and advocates for your career.
C-Suite Strategy & Execution – Understand the mindset, leadership skills, and executive moves necessary to transition from mid-level management to the highest levels of leadership.
Q&A and Real-World Application – Unlike public keynotes or panels, these intimate conversations allow direct engagement, so you can ask questions, get clarity, and apply these lessons to your own career strategy.
These fireside chats aren’t just discussions—they are a strategic advantage, giving BEM Gold members the inside track to executive success and positioning them to secure high-level sponsorship, accelerate their career, and step confidently into C-suite leadership.
Speakers include:
John Russel, VP & Chief Information Officer, Northrop Grumman
William M. Washington, Global Chief Financial Officer, Baker McKenzie
Richie Henry, Chief Operating Officer, Markel
Keith Wyche, Independent Board Director, Brink’s Inc.
Michael Crome, Chief Financial Officer, Las Vegas Raiders
Vernon H. Stafford, Senior Executive, First Horizon Bank
Timothy Hudson, Chief Commercial Officer, TE Connectivity
Eric Craft, Chief Supply Chain Officer, KFC Global
Larry Gillespie, President, Isobar
Michael Blackshear, Chief Compliance & Privacy Officer, Ryan Specialty
Craig Hodges, Chief Executive Officer, COMPASS
Kevin A. Henry, Executive Vice President & Chief People Officer, PulteGroup
F. Renarde Hill, Divisional Chief Information Officer, DuPont
John Ferguson, Chief Diversity Officer, NASCAR
2. Personalized Peer Networking & Accountability
Success in the corporate world isn’t just about talent and hard work—it’s about having the right people in your corner. Inside BEM Gold, networking is structured, intentional, and results-driven, ensuring that every member builds relationships that accelerate their executive journey.
Each week, participants are assigned one-on-one connections, resulting in 52 powerful new relationships annually. These aren’t just casual introductions—they’re high-impact conversations designed to strengthen your professional network, expose you to new perspectives, and position you for long-term success.
The Power of Peer Networking in BEM Gold
Strategic Relationship Building – Every connection introduces you to a Black male executive who is serious about career growth, leadership, and breaking into the C-suite.
Iron Sharpens Iron – These conversations go beyond small talk. Members challenge and push one another to think bigger, act bolder, and execute smarter.
Access to Hidden Opportunities – Many of the best executive roles aren’t publicly advertised. By consistently engaging with top performers, members tap into insider knowledge, job referrals, and high-level opportunities that come through trusted relationships.
A Personal Board of Advisors – Over time, these relationships evolve into a trusted inner circle—a group of high-achievers who offer candid advice, hold you accountable, and support your rise to the top.
Accountability for Action – The best networking isn’t just about conversation—it’s about execution. By consistently engaging with driven peers, members stay motivated, track progress, and ensure they’re taking the right steps toward executive success.
3. 12-Month High-Impact Curriculum:
Executive Presence & Influence – Mastering gravitas, confidence, and communication to command attention in high-stakes environments.
Strategic Thinking & Decision-Making – Shifting from operational execution to long-term strategic visioning.
Financial Acumen & P&L Management – Understanding balance sheets, revenue drivers, and financial metrics that C-suite leaders are responsible for.
Building & Leading High-Performance Teams – Moving from task management to leading leaders and driving a culture of excellence.
Boardroom Navigation & Stakeholder Management – Learning how to work with boards, investors, and external stakeholders.
Personal Branding & Thought Leadership – Establishing a strong executive brand, both internally and externally, through public speaking, LinkedIn, and industry engagement.
Mastering Executive-Level Communication – Developing the ability to present compelling narratives to the C-suite, investors, and media.
Organizational Politics & Power Dynamics – Understanding and leveraging corporate power structures to position yourself effectively.
Enterprise-Wide Leadership & Cross-Functional Expertise – Gaining exposure to other business units to develop a CEO-level perspective.
Crisis Leadership & Executive Decision-Making – Preparing for high-pressure situations, including managing PR crises and navigating downturns.
Negotiation & Influence at the Highest Levels – Advancing skills in executive compensation negotiation, deal-making, and high-stakes persuasion.
Sponsorship & Career Acceleration Strategies – Securing the right advocates in the C-suite and beyond to ensure long-term career success.
4. Exclusive In-Person Masterminds
True executive success isn’t achieved in isolation—it’s built through powerful relationships, strategic insights, and high-level connections. That’s why BEM Gold offers exclusive in-person masterminds, bringing together the most ambitious Black male managers and directors for premier networking, leadership development, and direct access to C-suite executives.
These private, high-powered gatherings provide an unmatched opportunity to refine your executive presence, expand your influence, and gain the sponsorship necessary to break into the C-suite. Events include:
C-Suite Roundtables – Engage in candid, behind-the-scenes discussions with industry-leading Black executives, gaining firsthand insights into their decision-making, career navigation strategies, and the unspoken rules of senior leadership.
High-Level Peer Networking – Connect with other top-performing Black male managers and directors, forging strategic relationships that open doors to new opportunities, cross-industry collaboration, and long-term career support.
Exclusive Leadership Workshops – Participate in deep-dive executive training on topics like enterprise leadership, securing executive sponsorship, and mastering corporate strategy—ensuring you’re not just climbing the corporate ladder but doing so with precision and confidence.
These in-person experiences go beyond traditional networking. They create an inner circle of high-achievers, ensuring every BEM Gold member is surrounded by a powerful, influential network that actively supports their career acceleration.
5. Daily Executive Briefings
In the fast-paced world of senior leadership, staying sharp requires consistent, high-impact insights—and that’s exactly what BEM Gold delivers. Every weekday, participants receive bite-sized, actionable leadership insights straight to their inbox, reinforcing key lessons and ensuring they are always thinking and operating at an elite level.
These daily executive briefings go beyond theory—they provide real-world strategies that Black male executives can apply immediately to accelerate their career trajectory. Topics include:
How to increase your visibility with C-suite leaders – Learn the subtle but powerful strategies that make top decision-makers take notice.
The five power moves every executive should make – Position yourself for long-term success with strategic, career-defining actions.
How to think like a CEO (and get treated like one) – Master the mindset, influence, and decision-making frameworks that set top executives apart.
Why executive sponsors—not mentors—get you promoted – Understand the key difference between mentorship and sponsorship and how to secure the backing of senior leaders.
Navigating corporate politics without compromising integrity – Learn how to play the game at the highest level while maintaining your principles.
These insights ensure BEM Gold members stay ahead of the curve, consistently refining their executive presence, influence, and decision-making skills—one powerful lesson at a time.
The Executive Growth Timeline
This program is not just a one-time training—it’s a career transformation journey.
Year 1: Building Executive Presence & Strategy → Learning how to be seen as a senior leader, mastering influence, and increasing visibility.
Year 2: Expanding Power & Positioning for the C-Suite → Gaining financial acumen, navigating corporate politics, and securing executive sponsorship.
Year 3: Executing the Transition to the C-Suite → Operating at an enterprise level, building board readiness, and landing C-suite opportunities.
Who Should Apply?
This program is for Black male corporate managers and directors who are:
Top-performing professionals ready to accelerate their careers
Serious about reaching the C-suite and committed to doing the work
Looking for real access & sponsorship from senior executive corporate leaders
Eager to master executive strategy, influence, and financial acumen to lead corporations
Who Should Not Apply?
Individuals who are not currently in management or director-level roles
Men unwilling to invest in their career growth at an premier level
Men are who ‘too busy’ to meet the network requirements
Men who do not want to reach the corporate C-suite
Men who want to be fulltime entrepreneurs
Men who are not coachable
Gold FAQ’s
Who is eligible to join BEM Gold?
BEM Gold is designed for Black male corporate managers and directors who are committed to professional growth and aiming for C-suite roles.
What makes BEM Gold different from other leadership programs?
BEM Gold provides exclusive access to accomplished Black men in C-suite, VP, and board director roles. These leaders share real-world insights and proven strategies to help members navigate the unique challenges of reaching senior leadership positions.
What is included in the $300 annual membership fee?
A 12-month high-impact curriculum
Daily executive insights via email
Monthly fireside chats with senior Black executives
Exclusive in-person masterminds
Peer networking & accountability
Which industries does BEM Gold cover?
BEM Gold is industry-agnostic. Our speakers come from diverse fields, and the curriculum applies universal leadership principles essential for reaching the C-suite.
What’s the difference between BEM Community and BEM Gold?
BEM Community focuses on networking and relationship-building through in-person gatherings. BEM Gold is a professional development network designed for those actively working toward C-suite roles. It emphasizes leadership skill-building and weekly engagement with senior executives.
Is there a money-back guarantee?
No, membership fees are non-refundable.
What is the cost of BEM Gold?
The current annual membership fee is $300, available for a limited time.
How much time should I dedicate to BEM Gold to see results?
To maximize your experience, we recommend dedicating 1–3 hours per week to fireside chats, coaching sessions, and self-guided lessons.
Are the fireside chats live or recorded?
Fireside chats are live events, allowing members to interact directly with senior leaders. Recordings are also available for those who cannot attend in real time.
How does BEM Gold support members in achieving their goals?
The program provides:
A structured 12-month curriculum
Daily executive insights
Monthly fireside chats with senior Black executives
Exclusive in-person masterminds
Personalized peer networking & accountability
These elements offer continuous learning, direct exposure to senior leaders, and opportunities to build meaningful professional relationships.
Are there opportunities for peer-to-peer networking?
Yes. Members can connect through:
1:1 facilitated weekly meetings
Group coaching sessions
Fireside chats
These connections foster collaboration, mutual support, and accountability.
What is the application process for BEM Gold?
Complete a self-assessment to determine fit based on the information on this page.
Submit payment to join.
Fill out an onboarding form and gain access to our online community, resources, event calendar, and relevant contacts.
What’s the difference between BEM Gold and BEM Elite?
BEM Gold is for mid-level leaders (Managers, Directors, VPs) looking to break into the C-suite. BEM Elite is for senior executives already in or near the C-suite, offering high-level mastermind groups and top-tier mentorship.
What’s the difference between BEM Gold and BEM Capital Network?
BEM Gold focuses on corporate career advancement. BEM Capital Network helps Black men in private equity gain access to capital and investment opportunities.
Who is Jewel Love?
Jewel Love is the founder of Black Executive Men (BEM) and creator of BEM Gold. A former licensed psychotherapist, he transitioned into executive coaching in 2022 after working with thousands of Black men in corporate settings. His research led to the creation of the Executive Blueprint model, which now serves as the foundation for BEM Gold.
Why focus on Black men?
Black men face unique challenges in corporate environments, including:
Barriers to career advancement
Underrepresentation in leadership roles
Limited access to tailored mentorship and sponsorship
BEM Gold provides a supportive space, equipping Black men with the resources, mentorship, and strategies needed to navigate leadership dynamics and break into the C-suite.
Can I join BEM Gold if I am not a Black man?
BEM Gold is specifically designed for Black men in managerial and director roles working toward the C-suite.
Does this program guarantee me a job?
No, but it significantly improves your chances by enhancing your leadership skills, expanding your network, and increasing your executive visibility.
Is BEM Gold right for individuals in the military, nonprofit, or government sectors?
Yes, if you’re planning to transition into corporate C-suite leadership, BEM Gold can be a great fit.
Is this program for startup founders, or only those aiming for C-suite roles in other organizations?
BEM Gold is not for startup founders. It is designed for professionals aiming for executive roles in lower mid-market, mid-market, upper mid-market, and Fortune 500 companies.
Is BEM Gold a good program for salesmen, coaches, or consultants looking to sell to C-suite leaders?
No, this program is not designed for selling products or services to executives. It is for individuals committed to becoming C-suite leaders themselves.
How long should I expect to be in BEM Gold?
Most members will stay for 1–5 years, depending on their starting point and how quickly they apply the material.
What are BEM Gold’s limitations?
BEM Gold specializes in connecting members with Black male senior executives. While we encourage networking beyond that, the program’s primary focus is on this demographic.
What if I don’t have time.
We understand—you’re busy. But investing just 1–4 hours per week in BEM Gold can fast-track your career by years. The right mentorship and executive strategies will save you far more time than trying to figure it all out alone.
Is this worth the investment?
Absolutely. A single career breakthrough—whether it’s a promotion, executive sponsorship, or salary negotiation—can 10X your investment or more. For $300 per year, you gain access to senior Black executives, fireside chats, and leadership training that would otherwise cost thousands.
What if I’m not ready for the C-suite yet?
You don’t have to be. BEM Gold meets you where you are—whether you’re a Manager aiming for Director, a Director targeting VP, or a VP striving for the C-suite. The program accelerates your timeline with the right strategies, sponsorship, and executive exposure.
I’m currently unemployed, can I join?
Yes, you can join BEM Gold even if you’re currently unemployed. The program is designed to position you for long-term success, connect you with senior executives, and equip you with the insights and relationships needed to secure your next opportunity. Many of our members leverage BEM Gold to elevate their career trajectory, whether they’re currently employed or in transition.
What Our Members Say
"BEM Gold has given me direct access to game-changing networking and executive insights that are accelerating my career." — Alton Jamison, Business Development Representative, Aessell
Leveraged BEM Gold connections to enter high-level business discussions with Marathon and other industry leaders.
Applied executive strategies to refine networking, ensuring conversations with key decision-makers.
Took insights from the network to strengthen his entrepreneurial ventures, including a new book launch.
"I’ve never felt more motivated to produce results than I have since joining BEM Gold."
— Donnie Royal, CEO of a Technology Startup, BetDat
Recently appointed CEO of a new tech company and immediately plugged into BEM Gold’s Capital Network.
Gained exclusive access to funding and business resources that have accelerated his company's growth.
Recognized the power of BEM’s community in unlocking capital opportunities for Black entrepreneurs.
"Through BEM Gold, I secured an interview for an SVP role – a level I had never reached before."
— Xavier Harrison, Marketing Director, Reach Media Studio
Used networking lessons to secure a high-level interview for an SVP of Performance Marketing role.
Reconnected with powerful industry mentors, including a former BET Networks executive.
Credits BEM Gold’s Fireside Chats and executive coaching for helping him think and operate at a C-suite level.
"One networking conversation led to a follow-up call with Tony Wells, a top executive."
— Brandon Brumfield, Managing Director, Customer Success, Microsoft
Gained direct access to senior leadership opportunities through BEM Gold connections.
Scheduled an impromptu meeting with a COO, accelerating his path to leadership.
Continues to leverage the group’s insights to expand his influence in the tech sector.
"I broke my company’s bonus structure and secured 170% payout – all while preparing for an international speaking engagement."
Travell Williams, Senior Product Manager, HackerRank
BEM Gold’s network helped him rethink his career trajectory, leading him to choose his own promotion track.
Positioned himself for principal or leadership roles, while laying the groundwork to transition into entrepreneurship.
Preparing for an upcoming international presentation to solidify his executive brand.
"My CFO told me this week that I am getting promoted."
Christian Lopez, FP&A Manager, Onyx Renewable Partners
Engaged with executive leaders and positioned himself for career advancement.
Secured a promotion and will finalize title and salary details soon.
Continues to leverage BEM Gold’s network for mentorship and strategic growth.
"I’m starting a new role helping scale a fast-growing AI startup, and I’m launching my podcast."
Johnny Austin, Senior Director of Product Management, Best Egg
Landed a key leadership role in an AI-driven B2B startup.
Developing his brand through "Executive Runtime," a podcast on leadership.
Leveraging BEM Gold’s network to scale his impact in the tech industry.
"Had some great networking meetings this week—met with a former Apple exec who was a leader in edtech and will help me get connected within her network." Michael A. Campbell, Senior Director, Intel Corporation
Expanded his executive network by connecting with a former Apple edtech leader.
Speaking at a London edtech trade show, brought on stage by Google.
Lined up C-suite networking meetings and is close to finalizing his dissertation.
"My goals this week are to complete a LinkedIn review with a social media consultant, identify 10 CHROs I want to meet, and meet with an MLT Alumni coach to get their advice on charting my path to VP of People roles." Jonathan Beauford, Global Leader of Performance Equity, Google
Optimizing his LinkedIn presence with expert insights.
Targeting 10 CHRO executives for networking and leadership growth.
Seeking high-level mentorship to accelerate his path to VP.
Next Steps
Join BEM Gold today with a $300 annual membership fee and gain immediate access to our exclusive network, training sessions, and networking events. BEM Gold isn’t just a program; it’s a catalyst for transformation. Now is the time to secure your spot and unlock the tools, connections, and strategies that can redefine your career. Don’t let this opportunity pass—invest in yourself and your future by becoming a part of BEM Gold. Your journey to the C-suite and beyond starts with this single step.
BEM Gold is building the next generation of Black male C-suite leadership—are you in?