Krista Bourne stands as a rare and powerful force in corporate America. With over 25 years of experience across industries, she has carved out a path that defies convention and breaks barriers, becoming one of the few Black women to rise to the C-Suite in a Fortune 500 company. Her journey, which began in the Verizon mailroom, took her to the pinnacle of leadership as the first Black woman COO of Verizon’s consumer group—an achievement that is as groundbreaking as it is inspirational.

In a world where less than 5% of C-Suite roles are held by Black professionals—and even fewer by Black women—Krista’s rise is not just a personal triumph; it’s a testament to resilience, strategy, and bold decision-making in environments that rarely offer a roadmap for people like her. She understands the complex dynamics that women and diverse professionals must navigate to succeed, and she has built her career on breaking through these barriers.

Krista’s leadership extended to overseeing 30,000 employees and managing the operations of over 1,500 retail stores for the largest wireless provider in the U.S. She spearheaded initiatives that transformed business models and supported billions in revenue, proving her ability to lead at the highest levels of corporate America. More than just a story of success, hers is a journey of strategic thinking, innovation, and the art of showing up with unwavering confidence in spaces that often seem impenetrable.

Today, Krista is on a mission to empower others to unlock their full potential. By sharing her personal journey and offering practical, real-world strategies, she inspires rising professionals and leaders to overcome obstacles, embrace their uniqueness, and carve their own path to success. Whether you’re an emerging leader or seasoned executive, Krista’s story challenges and equips you to not just aspire—but to achieve.

Global Keynote Speaker, Advisor & Former Fortune 20 Executive.

Meet Krista