Black Is The New Tech: How One Man’s Skills Landed Him At Microsoft

You may or may not be surprised to know of the lack of Black representation in the tech space. For example, in 2018, conglomerates like Apple and Google reported less than 7% of their employees were Black. This lack of representation, however, does nothing to dim the influence of Black talent in the technological industry.

Pioneers like Lisa Gelobter, Emmitt McHenry, the godfather of Black Silicon Valley, and Roy L. Clay, among many others, set the stage for millions of Black boys and girls to share their skills and technological findings with the world.

Among the inspired new generation is Kevin Moses, a Global SEM Marketing Manager on Microsoft’s Global Media. He always had a knack for marketing and sales, even during his time playing collegiate football at Marian University.

After earning his bachelor’s degree in marketing in 2012, Moses went on to occupy various positions in different marketing agencies. Including digital marketing for a real estate investing company, the digital marketing director for a successful startup, and testing his entrepreneurial skills through his healthy meal prep and delivery business.

Every marketer’s dream job

Nearly a decade into his professional career, Moses saw an opportunity at one of the world’s largest software development companies, Microsoft. The company, known for its computers, gaming platforms, apps, and cloud support was in need of an experienced digital marketer for its Windows and Xbox, and EDGE divisions.

Moses is involved with researching and creating advertisements for Microsoft platforms based on various search engines. “It’s digital targeting, digital science is what I like to call it. It’s a digital mix of different things.” Moses comments.

His position involves not only his marketing capabilities, but his understanding of the products and his audience. Moses’ work also includes complicated digital formulas that drive sales for the company.

Corporate challenges are still a mainstay

Although Moses is passionate about working in corporate, he struggled with the traditional work setting. He is not alone, as Black professionals often deal with imposter syndrome and lowballing their talents due to a lack of experience and immediate role models.

“I would put myself down and not see myself equal to others.” He attributes much of his recent corporate growth and confidence to his wife’s support. She encouraged him to always require what he’s worth and not be discouraged because he didn’t thrive in the traditional corporate space.

The global pandemic and lockdowns helped, too. Being able to work from home where he can move around, instead of sitting in one place or wearing comfortable clothes versus a suit and tie, helped Moses further assert his abilities without certain office politics that can distract from the bottom line.

His big plans for the future

Moses’ future goals involve giving back to his hometown, Youngstown, Ohio, and specifically those who face similar challenges he faced. He aims to start a non-profit program to teach digital marketing to inner-city youth. 

His foundation will teach youth how to monetize what they already do daily on social media, helping kids stay off the streets.

This non-profit will also focus on teaching people to be themselves, unapologetically, while still doing what they love.