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Managing Up

A Power Move for Black Men in Leadership

Most leadership advice focuses on managing teams, but if you’re a Black man in corporate America, you also need to master managing up—building strong relationships with higher-ups to increase your influence and career trajectory. It’s not about playing politics; it’s about strategic leadership that ensures you’re seen, heard, and positioned for growth.

What Is Managing Up?

Managing up is the art of understanding your boss’s priorities, communication style, and decision-making process so you can align your work in a way that benefits both of you. It’s about making their job easier while ensuring you gain visibility and opportunities in the process.

Why It Matters for Black Men

In many corporate spaces, Black men often don’t get the automatic sponsorship or advocacy that others do. Managing up is a way to actively shape your professional reputation, ensure your work is recognized, and open doors for career growth.

How to Manage Up Effectively

1. Understand Their Goals

   • What keeps your boss up at night? The more you understand their objectives, the more you can position yourself as the solution.

   • Anticipate problems before they arise and offer strategic solutions.
     

2. Adapt to Their Style

   • Some leaders want data-driven reports, others prefer quick verbal updates. Learn how your boss processes information and adjust your communication style accordingly.

   • Be concise, clear, and action-oriented in your interactions.
     

3. Be Proactive

   • Don’t just wait for instructions—offer insights and ideas that align with company goals.

   • Show leadership by taking initiative in areas that impact business success.
     

4. Build Trust and Credibility

   • Deliver on what you say you will—consistency builds influence.

   • Be solutions-focused, not just a problem identifier.
     

5. Get a Seat at the Table

   • Seek out stretch projects that give you exposure to senior leadership.

   • Position yourself as a thought leader in meetings—speak up with confidence.

The Bottom Line

Managing up isn’t about flattery or playing the game—it’s about strategically positioning yourself for success. Black men in leadership must be intentional about visibility, advocacy, and career growth. Don’t just do the work—make sure the right people see it.

Let’s get to work.

Fireside Chat

Fireside Guest: William M. Washington III
 
William is the Global Chief Financial Officer at Baker McKenzie, a role he has held since January 2022. In this position, he is responsible for overseeing the financial operations of a global firm generating over $3 billion in revenue across 77 offices in 47 countries.
 
His leadership in financial strategy and operations ensures the firm's continued robust performance on a global scale.
 
Prior to his current role, he served as Chief Financial Officer for the Americas at Hogan Lovells, where he led financial operations for nearly three years.
 
His career spans key financial leadership positions at Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP, Crowell & Moring LLP, Fannie Mae, and Accenture.
 
He has developed deep expertise in budgeting, financial analysis, team building, and internal audits, making him a highly respected figure in the field of financial management.
 
William holds a Master’s Degree in Law Firm Management from George Washington University, an MBA from the University of Maryland Global Campus, and a BBA in Finance, Magna Cum Laude, from Mississippi State University.
 
He also completed the Leadership in Law Firms program at Harvard Law School Executive Education, where he gained advanced skills in leadership, mergers and acquisitions, and change management.

EPISODE 78 - Get To The Point

In this episode, Jewel highlights the power of clear, concise communication in business.

He shares insights from a networking event where a speaker spent too much time getting to the point, losing the opportunity.

Jewel stresses that being direct and getting straight to the ask is crucial, especially when connecting with senior leaders.

Learn how mastering this skill can elevate your career and help you achieve your goals faster.

#BEM #Podcast #GetToThePoint

BEM Community Updates

Q2 Regional Socials

Q2 Regional Socials –
Saturday, April 5th | 2–5 PM
Black Executive Men Community

Q2 Regional Socials –
Saturday, April 5th | 2–5 PM
Black Executive Men Community

Black Executive Men Community is hosting its Q2 Regional Socials across 40+ cities worldwide.

These exclusive gatherings take place at top-end steakhouses, private rooms, and lounges, offering an upscale setting for meaningful connections.

In just three hours, you’ll enjoy great meals, cold drinks, and facilitated introductions designed to foster authentic friendships, meaningful connections, and mutual support.

These events are tailored to help members grow their networks while sharing career insights in a relaxed yet professional environment.

Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with corporate Black men and expand your reach globally.

Not a member yet?

Join today to access this exclusive experience.

#BEM #Community #Socials

Black Men's LP Summit

What if Black men
Accredited investors
Became authentic friends

What deals could be funded?
What GPs could be elevated?
What returns could be found?

We ask in advance for you to:

Prepare.

The first ever...
Black men's LP Summit.
Hosted online June 12 on Zoom.

What to Expect:

• Global Market Trends

• Private Deal Previews

• Curated Investor Panels

• Interactive Q&A Sessions

• Insights from Industry Leaders

• Impact Networking Opportunities

Pre-register below for early access.

A new men's network
For impact-driven
Black wealth
Is here.

#bem #capital #network

2025 Private Equity Spring Cohort
and Napa Valley Experience

Black Executive Men Capital Network
2025 Private Equity Spring Cohort
and Napa Valley Experience

April–June 2025. Online Cohort
July 9th–10th. Napa Valley Experience

Register Today!

Are you a Black male GP or private equity professional looking to expand your network and deepen connections with like-minded leaders in the field?

Black Executive Men Capital Network is proud to offer a groundbreaking initiative tailored for Black men in private equity—an exclusive cohort followed by a luxurious, unforgettable experience in Napa Valley.

Why This Cohort Is a Game-Changer

Private equity can feel isolating, particularly for Black men navigating spaces where representation is scarce. This cohort is designed to connect, uplift, and empower, bringing together the brightest minds and ambitious leaders in the industry. Over three months, you’ll build authentic friendships, expand your network, and tap into opportunities to advance your career and influence.

What’s Included in the Cohort

• Facilitated 1:1 Networking: Connect with 30+ like-minded Black men in private equity, including GPs, analysts, accountants, lawyers, and more.
• Pre-Calls: Prepare for impactful conversations and relationships with curated group calls that build the foundation for the cohort experience.
• Post-Calls: Solidify connections, discuss takeaways, and plan for future collaborations.

Exclusive Napa Valley Experience

From July 9th to July 10th, we’ll gather in Napa Valley for a one-of-a-kind weekday event designed to combine luxury, connection, and professional growth.

Day One: A Feast for the Senses

• Winery Tour: Explore a Black-owned vineyard, indulge in wine sampling, and savor a gourmet charcuterie platter.
• Private Dinner: Enjoy a five-star dining experience with a private chef, signature cocktails, curated wine selections, and a dedicated bartender.
• Cigar Lounge: Unwind with a premium cigar ceremony, curated selections, and moving speeches that inspire and energize.
• Unforgettable Atmosphere: Engage with representatives from the local community, connect with fellow executives, and soak in the beauty of Napa Valley.

Day Two: Deals, Partnerships, and Growth

• Breakfast Roundtable: Share insights, discuss deals, and explore collaborations with fellow Black male private equity professionals.
• Future Planning: Strategize next steps for your fund, upcoming events, and the future of the Black Executive Men Capital Network.

Investment

The entire experience, including the three-month cohort and the Napa Valley event, is available for only $1,000. This is more than an event—it’s a pivotal moment in building your network, growing your influence, and shaping your future in private equity.

Spaces are limited, and this is an exclusive opportunity to connect with trailblazing Black men in private equity. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative experience.

Register below!

#BEM #PrivateEquity #NapaValley

BEM Community provides authentic friendships, meaningful connections, and career support to Black men at all stages and phases or their career journey.

A powerful network building social bonds and unlocking new jobs, new careers, new clients and more.

This community doesn’t just support career success, but a real sense of ‘community’ too.