Belen is the Vice President of Strategic Initiatives and Communications and oversees operations and partnerships related to Equilar’s corporate governance research. She also leads Equilar’s Diversity Network (EDN) initiative focused on increasing diverse representation in boardrooms across the globe. Through the EDN program, Belen established partnerships with leading ethnic and gender diversity-focused organizations creating a “registry of registries” of board-ready executives. EDN partners include Catalyst, 30% Club, CalPERS and CalSTRS, Committee of Economic Development, among others.

With more than ten years in the corporate governance industry, Belen has extensive experience working with boards and senior executives from Silicon Valley start-ups to Fortune 500 companies. Prior to joining Equilar, she managed executive leadership development and board recruitment practices where she worked closely with board leadership and potential candidates to place top board talent.

Belen often speaks publicly on board diversity and corporate governance matters, including events hosted by the Society for Corporate Governance, NASDAQ, Stanford Women on Boards, National Association of Stock Plan Professionals (NASPP), and Global Equity Organization (GEO). Her research on board composition and executive compensation has been cited in several regional, national, and trade publications, including The Wall Street Journal, Directorship, Directors & Boards, and Agenda.

She earned her Bachelor’s degree and MBA from Santa Clara University.