Our News

July 5, 2022

Becky Bareford, Richmond Fed COO, Recognized Among Virginia's Top Women in Leadership

A first-generation college student hailing from the small town of Warsaw, Virginia, Becky Bareford has built her impressive career at the Richmond Fed on a foundation of core values that she learned from her grandfather: hard work, good business sense and the courage to push beyond boundaries. Becky joined the Richmond Fed in 1998 and has served in various leadership roles in the Bank’s accounting, procurement and human resources areas before being named one of the organization’s youngest chief operating officers in 2018.

Throughout her career, Becky has been an advocate for recruiting and mentoring early career professionals. She’s also been a champion for strengthening the representation of minorities and women across the organization and has served as an executive mentor for the ChamberRVA Mentor program.

“I am so grateful for the individuals who have taken chances with me and grateful for the opportunities I’ve had,” commented Becky, “It’s why I am passionate about mentoring and paying it forward to support others.”

Beyond the Richmond Fed, Becky is a dedicated community advocate, volunteering with several non-profit and community service organizations across Virginia. Currently, she serves as a board member with the Boys & Girls Club of Metro Richmond and Venture Richmond. She previously served on the board of the Virginia Business Leadership Network, an organization focused on increasing workforce diversity through the inclusion of individuals with disabilities — a cause that’s personally close to her heart.

In recognition of her leadership within our Bank and our communities, Becky was selected in July by Virginia Business as one of the state’s top Women in Leadership. In her nomination, Jodie McLean, deputy chair of the Richmond Fed Board of Directors and chief executive officer of EDENS, underscored Bareford’s commitment to the employees and mission of the Richmond Fed as well as the communities the organization serves.

McLean shared in her nomination, “I’ve seen firsthand [Becky’s] strategic leadership within the organization, her focus on people and developing and supporting diverse talent, and her passion for our community and our region.”

When asked about her achievements, Becky responded, “I think I’m most proud of the people in my life, like my grandfather, who encouraged me to look beyond my small-town roots, explore bigger opportunities and be willing to step outside of my comfort zone. The advice I often share with early career employees is to build relationships with people who believe in you, challenge yourself and make sure you invest in your own development.”

That’s great advice, Becky — and one of the many reasons that you’ve been recognized as one of Virginia’s top women in leadership. Congratulations on your award!

Jim Strader (804) 697-8956 (804) 332-0207 (mobile)