Our Executive Leadership

  • President & CEO

    E. Hamil Douglas is the President & CEO of Harlem Commonwealth Council, where he oversees the firm's daily operations. He is also the Managing Director of HCC’s investment vehicle, Harlem Entrepreneurial Fund (HEF). His responsibilities include loan origination, business development, loan underwriting, loan closings, and resource development.  

    Prior to joining HCC, Hamil worked for Archimedes Alpha, U.S. Trust – Bank of America Private Wealth Management, and ABN AMRO (RBS). His experience includes business development, investor relations, private wealth management, and banking both domestically and internationally. Hamil holds an MBA from the University of Chicago - Booth School of Business.

  • Chief of Staff

    Andre Akeem Simon stands at the forefront of community empowerment as the Chief of Staff at Harlem Commonwealth Council. Known for his dynamic leadership and dedication to social impact, Andre has a proven track record in spearheading organizational initiatives that foster employee engagement, economic growth, and innovation in urban communities.

    Andre began his journey at Bank of America Merrill Lynch in their commercial banking division, going on to hold several leadership positions across various CDFI’s including Co-Founder of TruFund’s million-dollar private equity group. Andre consistently surpasses financial and operational objectives, enhancing the vitality of developing areas and collaboration amongst colleagues. He holds a Master of Public Administration from Carnegie Mellon University and a Bachelor of Arts from Franklin and Marshall College.

  • Director of Education

    Estefani Cespedes is the Director of Education at Harlem Commonwealth Council, bringing over thirteen years of experience in the educational sector. As a founding educator, she has played a pivotal role in shaping learning environments that champion equity and inclusiveness.

    Estefani began her journey in education as a Teach For America Corps member, teaching in diverse settings including Oklahoma City, Harlem, and the Bronx. Her commitment to education led her to assist with creating a new school in the Bronx, where she also excelled as a Department and Grade Level Leader. She holds a Master of Education from Relay Graduate School of Education and a Bachelor of Arts from Franklin & Marshall College.

  • Director of Finance

    Ayesha Codrington is an experienced financial accounting professional with 15+ years of experience working with non-profits such as Upper Manhattan Empowerment Zone and Brooklyn Navy Yard in financial management with the ability to lead and influence strategy as well as assist in driving operational risk metrics and ensure no fail audits. Ms. Codrington holds a MS/BS in Accounting from Long Island University. She is currently studying to sit the CPA exam.

NYC Business Solutions Center

  • Director of NYC Business Solutions Centers

    Christian brings over 15 years’ leadership experience in business development, program management, as well as technology management to the role, across public, private and not for profit sectors. He holds an MBA from Adelphi University and is a Project Management Professional (PMP).

Harlem Entrepreneurial Fund

  • Senior Director, Loan Fund and Portfolio Management

    Ericka is a Certified Economic Development Finance Professional and the Loan and Portfolio Director at HEF. Ericka helped establish HEF during its early beginnings in 2007 and is responsible for loan origination, loan underwriting, loan closings, managing portfolio records and fund performance, financial transactions, collections, and compliance with state and federal regulations. With over 19 years of experience and an understanding of the common challenges entrepreneurs face when starting a business, Ericka has been a resource to those looking to navigate business obstacles. Ericka graduated Summa Cum Laude from Monroe College, where she earned an M.B.A. and is also a licensed Notary Public in the State of New York.

  • Senior Director & Senior Loan Officer

    Terri-Ann is the Senior Director & Senior Loan Officer at HEF and joined the team in February 2021. Terri-Ann has worked in the financial and banking industry for over 27+ years. She spent most of her career honing her skills in commercial and small business lending at TD Bank, where she held various positions from Portfolio Analyst, Portfolio Manager, to Relationship Manager. Most recently, Terri-Ann held positions as a Branch Manager at Investors Bank and Apple Bank, where she was responsible for initiating, maintaining, and building new depository and lending relationships. Additionally, she was responsible for mentoring and coaching the branch team. She has received various nominations and awards and most notably was one of the recipients of the 2019 Power Woman in Business Award.

    Terri-Ann holds a B.S. in Psychology from Fordham University and an M.P.A. from Marist College. She has worked hard over the years in her professional and personal life to support not-for-profit efforts and currently serves as a board member of the Chinatown YMCA. Terri-Ann is also a licensed Notary Public in the State of New York.