Ursula Burns is a trailblazer in the world of business and technology. Known for her groundbreaking rise from intern to CEO of Xerox, Burns made history as the first Black woman to lead a Fortune 500 company. Her journey is a testament to resilience, vision, and the power of determination in the corporate and tech world.
Early Life and Education
Ursula Burns was born in New York City in 1958, growing up in the Low-Income housing projects of Manhattan. Despite financial challenges, she excelled academically. Burns attended Polytechnic Institute of New York University, earning a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering in 1980. She later obtained a master’s in mechanical engineering from Columbia University, setting the stage for a career in a field historically dominated by men.
Burns’ early life instilled a strong work ethic and determination. She has often credited her upbringing for teaching her resilience and resourcefulness — traits that would define her career.—Rising Through XeroxUrsula Burns joined Xerox as a summer intern in 1980. Over the next 25 years, she steadily climbed the corporate ladder, demonstrating exceptional technical knowledge, leadership skills, and strategic thinking.
By 2007, Burns was named CEO of Xerox, making her the first Black woman to lead a Fortune 500 company. During her tenure, she oversaw a major transformation of Xerox from a traditional printing company to a services and technology solutions powerhouse. She emphasized innovation, efficiency, and a forward-looking business strategy that diversified the company’s revenue streams.
Leadership Style and Achievements
Burns is known for her pragmatic and results-driven leadership style. She believes in empowering teams, investing in talent, and focusing on measurable impact. Some of her key achievements include:
Transforming Xerox: Burns guided the company through a significant shift toward technology services and business solutions.
Mergers and Acquisitions: She led the acquisition of Affiliated Computer Services (ACS) in 2010, strengthening Xerox’s global technology and service offerings.
Diversity and Inclusion: Burns has been a vocal advocate for women and minorities in tech, using her platform to mentor and inspire the next generation of leaders.
Board Leadership: Beyond Xerox, she has served on boards for major corporations, including American Express, Uber, and VEON, influencing global business strategies.—Awards and Recognition
Ursula Burns’ contributions to business and society have earned her numerous accolades:
Fortune’s Most Powerful Women in Business multiple times.
Time 100 Most Influential People recognition.
National Academy of Engineering membership, honoring her technical contributions and leadership.Recognition from organizations promoting diversity, STEM education, and women in business.
Impact Beyond Business
Burns’ influence extends far beyond her corporate roles. She is a mentor, speaker, and advocate for social change. She focuses on:
Education: Encouraging underrepresented minorities to pursue STEM careers.
Corporate Responsibility: Promoting ethical business practices and innovation.
Empowering Women: Burns’ career exemplifies breaking glass ceilings and inspiring other women to pursue leadership roles in tech and business.
She has also authored the book “Where You Are Is Not Who You Are”, sharing insights about resilience, leadership, and navigating the corporate world.
Lessons from Ursula Burns
1. Perseverance is Key: Burns rose from intern to CEO by consistently demonstrating capability and initiative.
2. Education Matters: Strong technical expertise opened doors that allowed her to excel in leadership.
3. Lead by Example: Empowering teams, investing in talent, and making tough decisions built trust and drove results.
4. Break Barriers: Representation matters — Burns showed that leadership positions are achievable regardless of background.
Ursula Burns is more than a business leader; she is a symbol of resilience, innovation, and breaking barriers. Her career proves that with determination, technical skill, and a commitment to excellence, it is possible to reach the top of corporate America while inspiring others along the way.
Burns’ legacy continues to influence women, minorities, and aspiring leaders worldwide, showing that leadership is not only about position but about vision, courage, and impact.
