The Association of African American Financial Advisors, the Washington, D.C., organization that aims to increase the number of Blacks in wealth management, named the first chief executive officer in its 23-year history.

Sheena Gray comes to the post with more than two decades of leadership experience in wealth management, diversity, equity, inclusion and risk management, including the last 14 years in various roles at JPMorgan Chase, according to an AAAA press release last month.

“In an industry traditionally dominated by men, the selection of a woman to lead AAAA signals a progressive and inclusive future for the wealth management profession,” the AAAA.said.

“Sheena’s extensive experience in wealth management, her leadership roles at JPMorgan Chase, and her passion for creating inclusive environments make her the ideal leader for AAAA,” Interim Board Chair Dr. Alex David said in a statement. “Her appointment is not only significant for AAAA, but for the financial industry as a whole, as we work toward elevating the presence and influence of women in a predominantly male industry.”

In an email, Gray, who spent nine years as executive director of human relations at JPMorgan, according to her LinkedIn profile, cited the “significance of representation” of her role as a black woman in a leadership role in the industry.

“My focus is on ensuring that AAAA grows, but in a way that fosters meaningful relationships, promotes transparency, and drives sustainable change within both the financial industry and the Black community,” said Gray, who said her journey in the industry began as a bank teller at 15 years old in Chicago. She received her M.B.A. degree from DePaul University.

On its website, the AAAA stated that it’s first mission is to increase the number of Blacks or African American advisors in the business.

Black or African American advisors make up just 3% of the profession in the U.S., according to a 2022 Cerulli report.

The AAAA represents about 2,500 licensed black advisors and about 7,000 members and prospects.

Gray, who acknowledged that "progress has been slow," has a three-prong strategy to increase the level of Black American representation: Create more corporate partners, emphasize mentorships and enhance visibility.

“We need to shine a light on success stories, not just at the national level but within communities,” Gray said, “to inspire the next generation of Black talent to see financial services as a viable, rewarding career path.”