Maria Castañón Moats named Chief Diversity Officer of PwC.

Maria Castañón Moats has been named Chief Diversity Officer by PwC US. Ms. Moats, a partner in the firm’s Audit practice, will lead PwC’s diversity and inclusion strategy, which is focused on attracting, developing and advancing the most talented individuals – regardless of race, sexual orientation, religion, age, gender or any other dimension of diversity. In addition to her role as Chief Diversity Officer, Ms. Moats will continue as the engagement leader on a New Jersey-based retail and consumer client.

Ms. Moats succeeds Niloufar Molavi, who served as Chief Diversity Officer of PwC since 2009. Ms. Molavi has been appointed as the firm’s new U.S. Energy Leader and Market Managing Partner (MMP) for Greater Houston.

PwC US Chairman Bob Moritz noted that “diversity is the key to sustainable global growth for any organization,” and said PwC’s approach to diversity “is a primary element of what helps us to deliver the best talent and highest quality to our clients.” He added, “Maria is an energetic, passionate and dedicated advocate for diversity and we look forward to her strong leadership in this role.”

Ms. Moats becomes the first Latina to serve as the Chief Diversity Officer at PwC. Born in Mexico, she has traveled extensively for clients throughout the U.S., Europe and Latin America, which has broadened her unique culture perspective. She is a graduate of the University of Texas at El Paso with a degree in accounting.

“PwC has been a wonderful place for me to advance my career while continuing my deep commitment to my family,” said Ms. Moats. “I’m proud to build upon our culture that promotes flexibility so that our talented professionals can grow their career with the firm throughout their life events.”