Ronald C. Parker: Trailblazing Diversity Advocate and Corporate Leader Passes at 70

Corporate leaders are mourning the loss of Ronald C. Parker, a dedicated diversity advocate who championed Black executives and others in attaining senior leadership positions.

Parker, 70, passed away unexpectedly on February 22, as announced by his longtime colleague Maurice Cox, who described the loss as “a shock to all of us and completely unexpected.”

During his distinguished career, he rose to the position of Senior Vice President of Human Resources, Labor Relations, and Global Diversity & Inclusion at PepsiCo. Following his retirement in 2010, he continued his professional mission as President and CEO of The Executive Leadership Council (ELC) and subsequently led the National Association of Securities Professionals (NASP), where he advanced opportunities for underrepresented groups in the financial sector.

His commitment to advocacy was recognized with the 2024 BLACK ENTERPRISE Lifetime Diversity Crusader Award.

As a founding member of PepsiCo’s partnership with the ELC, Mr. Parker was instrumental in elevating the careers of numerous Black executives. He maintained strong ties with Texas Christian University (TCU), where he served on the Board of Trustees and contributed significantly to the institution’s strategic direction.