CONTACT:
Jaclynn Coussa
Associate Director, Marketing & Communications
jcoussa@redf.org
(415) 510-6027
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
SAN FRANCISCO (March 25, 2025) – REDF, a venture philanthropy that invests in employment social enterprises ― businesses achieving transformative social impact by providing jobs, training, and support to people breaking through barriers to employment ― is pleased to announce that William M. Washington, III, will join its Board of Directors, effective immediately.
Washington is a cross-sector leader with over two decades of experience in financial strategy. He is currently the global chief financial officer for leading law firm Baker McKenzie, where he has been since 2022. As CFO, he stewards the firm’s financial operations, which totals more than $3 billion in revenue across 76 offices in 45 countries, and is responsible for over 1,400 employees.
“We are incredibly fortunate to have William join our Board of Directors,” says Maria Kim, president and CEO of REDF. “William brings both financial strategy and global leadership to the board; but most especially, he brings a deep-seated passion for the mission of helping people overcoming tough barriers build hope and the sense of possibility through the power of a job. I cannot imagine a better thought partner as we enter our next strategic period.”
Prior to joining Baker McKenzie, Washington held senior finance roles at Hogan Lovells and two AmLaw 100 law firms, and served in leadership roles in diverse industries including consulting (Accenture) and financial services (Fannie Mae). Washington’s professional career has focused on building a comprehensive understanding of companies’ financial pictures to help drive long-term stability and success.
“I am thrilled to join the Board of REDF because I believe in the transformative power of employment social enterprises,” shares Washington. “REDF’s mission to create job opportunities and support businesses that drive social change aligns perfectly with my values and professional experience. I am excited to contribute to this impactful organization and work alongside a dedicated team to make a meaningful difference in our communities.”
Washington holds a bachelor’s in finance from Mississippi State University, an MBA from the University of Maryland University College, and a master’s in law firm management from George Washington University. He is also a Certified Manager of Quality/Organizational Excellence and has earned a Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt.
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ABOUT REDF
REDF invests in employment social enterprises (ESEs) — businesses that provide jobs, training, and support to people breaking through barriers to employment. REDF partners with these businesses and the entrepreneurs who lead them — providing capital, capacity, and community — to amplify their transformative impact. Since 1997, REDF has invested in 302 ESEs in 41 states and DC. Collectively these partnerships have helped 133,500 people enter the workforce and generated more than $2.5 billion in revenue that is reinvested in employee success — creating a ripple effect that strengthens families and communities and helps build an economy that works. For everyone. For more information, visit redf.org.
