Melissa Bernal Ekanem

About Melissa Bernal Ekanem

I am a strategic and dynamic leader with extensive experience in program management and product development at Fidelity Investments. I specialize in leading significant initiatives within Fidelity Charitable, focusing on enhancing asset growth and operational efficiency. My role centers on harnessing innovative solutions to complex challenges, always with an eye toward sustainable success.I am committed to leading large, diverse teams and fostering collaboration and innovation to exceed strategic objectives. I am passionate about making impactful contributions through key projects and initiatives, leveraging my strategic thinking and robust analytical skills to drive business success.In my tenure as Board Chair for Communities In Schools of Durham, I guided the organization through critical transitions, navigating challenging changes to ensure our mission’s resilience and continuity. This experience has deepened my understanding of leadership during periods of significant organizational change.

Experience

1. VP, Daf Partnerships

   Chariot

   Aug 2025 — Present

   BUILDING STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS – Led full partnership development cycle for Chariot\'s newly launched Disbursement platform, including prospecting, relationship building, pitching, and contract negotiations. Signed 4 new partners, expanding the client base from 9 to 13 and transitioning the portfolio from design partners to paying customers, establishing early market credibility.DELIVERING PLATFORM SCALE – Drove rapid adoption of Chariot Disbursements through successful client onboarding and implementation, growing donation volume 2,240%(from $1.5M to $35.1M) and donations processed 1,388%(from 1,452 to 21,743) within five months, demonstrating the platform\'s ability to scale efficiently.

Education

• The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

  Bachelor's degree, Biology, General

  2003 — 2007

• Duke University - The Fuqua School of Business

  MBA - Cross Continent Program

  2017