Reed to Lead Organization’s Development Team into Its Next Century

MIAMI (February 20, 2025) – United Way Miami, one of the leading and longest-standing non-profits in South Florida, has named philanthropy and financial services leader Gladys Reed as Chief Philanthropy Officer. In this role, Reed will oversee the organization’s fundraising, donor engagement and corporate partnerships.

With more than 30 years of experience in banking, relationship management and philanthropy, Reed will lead the development team, and work alongside United Way Miami’s employees, to cultivate strategic partnerships and advance the organization’s philanthropic efforts. Her experience in nonprofit advocacy and community engagement will help strengthen donor relationships and build new partnerships that advance United Way Miami’s mission.

“Gladys brings the leadership, experience and dedication needed to continue to deepen engagement, mobilize support and expand United Way Miami’s reach in the community,” said Symeria Hudson, president and CEO of United Way Miami. “Her leadership will help ensure we continue making a tangible difference for the people who need it most. With nearly half a million households in Miami-Dade struggling to make ends meet, the need for meaningful solutions has never been greater.”

Reed most recently served as Senior Vice President, Private Client Services Manager at Ocean Bank where she directed the bank’s private client division. Prior to that, she held executive leadership positions at BankUnited, spearheading strategic initiatives to expand financial services and leading high-performing teams to drive growth in key markets.

Reed has also served on United Way Miami’s Board since 2020 and as past Chair of Women United’s Executive Council. She is actively involved with the Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, the Center for Financial Training and Habitat for Humanity’s Women’s Council. Her leadership has earned her recognition as a Woman of Influence by the South Florida Business Journal and induction into Miami Dade College’s Alumni Hall of Fame for Banking.

As United Way Miami embarks on its next century, its commitment remains the same: connecting people who need help with people who can help. Through strategic leadership and community-driven philanthropy, the organization continues to uplift lives and create pathways to success for all Miami-Dade residents.

For more information on United Way Miami’s centennial initiatives and leadership team, visit www.unitedwaymiami.org.

Media Contact: Sharee Gilbert, gilberts@unitedwaymiami.org.