Learn more about Gary
Gary Bushrod is a DEI Leader, consultant, creator and explorer.
He is a proud alum of Hampton University, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management. Upon graduating from Hampton University, Gary began his career in finance and then transitioned into the world of learning & development when accepting a role with Booz Allen Hamilton as a Facilitator and Instructional Designer. In the Spring of 2014, he earned a Master of Science in Education, majoring in Curriculum & Instruction at George Mason University.
Gary relocated to New York City in 2014 and accepted a role as the Program Manager of Risk Management & Compliance Learning & Development at JPMorgan Chase & Co. In 2018, he was tapped by Capital One to be a Learning Consultant, later also performing as a certified Culture of Belonging practitioner where he was able to link learning & development with leadership, strategy, and learner-focused solutions as well as working to improve the firm’s culture of belonging initiatives.
Now, based in Los Angeles, Gary is the Global Head of Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) for Amazon Music, Podcasts and Digital Acceleration. His mission is to help grow a diverse and inclusive workforce by executing cutting-edge programs, leading philanthropic and strategic partnerships grounded in culture, and creating a work environment that all employees celebrate being part of. He works directly with the Music Industry teams to assure they are implementing equitable practices when partnering with, booking and elevating music creators and artists, and in Summer of 2023, was inducted as a member of the Recording Academy. He leads the charge in assuring the company is investing in underrepresented creator communities and organizations that support artists.
Do not go where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.
-ralph waldo emerson
Outside of the office
Beyond his time in the corporate world, Gary is quite the creative. He was a talented coach and choreographer from 2009 - 2014, and led the Herndon High School Step Team (Herndon, VA) to become two-time national champions in 2011 and 2013. He writes for various travel publications and also records, edits, and produced his own YouTube channel.
Traveling is one of Gary's favorite pastimes. He’s traveled to countless bucket list destinations around the world, oftentimes solo, documenting his adventures on his travel & lifestyle blog, CatchGifUcan.com.
