The second annual AL DÍA 40 Under Forty event will serve to highlight and showcase some of the most diverse and impactful young professionals across the Philadelphia region.

At the event, taking place on August 27, 2021, Miguel Alban will be one of the 40 honorees. Currently, he is the Senior Vice President - Director of Multicultural Banking at Customers Bank.

Miguel Alban has worked at Customers Bank as director of multicultural banking since January 2020. He joined with more than a decade of experience working in multicultural banking. Prior to joining Customers Bank, Alban worked two years at Bryn Mawr Trust as vice president of multicultural banking. 

In 2012, Alban founded The Hispanic Approach, a top Hispanic marketing consulting firm with the mission of bridging the gap between businesses and the rapidly growing Hispanic market. 

Alban earned a master’s degree in international law and legal studies from Temple University, and is also a Wharton School of Business graduate in banking.

Here are Miguel Alban's responses: 

As an immigrant, you need to not only adapt to a new language but also a new culture. It was not easy. Sadly, still people underestimate what a foreign professional can bring to the table. You need to work twice as hard not only to move forward in your career, but also to prove that you can be an asset despite the fact of being an immigrant. I have been lucky enough to meet excellent quality human beings during my career and I received the support I needed. At the beginning when I came from Peru, it was hard. I had to bag groceries, stocked shelves overnight, delivered newspapers…You need to do whatever it takes and be patient…Your moment will come.

Diversity in the financial industry, especially in banking, needs to be seen more than just a “check the box”. Banks and financial institutions need to realize that diverse employees will make a positive impact in the communities they serve and will serve as a competitive advantage within these multicultural segments. Investing in a team that looks like the communities we serve is important, but also training and workforce development it’s important, so these team members have the opportunity to grow within the organization. Also, Board Diversity is very important, it doesn’t only enhances competitiveness but also improves innovation and increases Performance and profits.

Leadership is showing by example, and making your team a successful group. If you make your team shine and grow, you are a good leader. Rolling your sleeves and get to work with them, lead by example, motivate them. Be willing to coach and be coached. A good leader is humble and willing to learn from his teammates. Row in the same direction, share your passion.

Leading the Multicultural Division for Customers Bank on a national Level, with Multicultural Banking officers all over the states.