Strong profile and strong leadership experiences! I think your leadership in the LGBTQ+ space compensates for the lack of having a promotion in your current role. Also having significant responsibilities and being client facing, you can actually show your impact more readily in your resume without the lack of career progression being so visible.
To respond to your questions specifically.
- Is there anything I can do to improve my chances 1 year out from applying?
You said you are interested in the intersection of tech and social impact. Have you been involved in tech projects/deals at work right now? Good to network yourself into that. Also what kind of social impact are you interested in? Good to be involved in that in some capacity. You want to tell a great cohesive story in your application and showing your some ties to your future interests is helpful. Then of course start preparing your prospective recommenders. Don’t come out of the blue next year wanting their support. If you need to reconnect with a past supervisor, this is the time to do it.
-Would going to an investment firm without brand after my current firm impair my chances? Would it be better to apply from my current firm?
I think brand name is less of a consideration that whether this role fits your story arc. If it is upward mobility or increased responsibilities then yes. If it is to get involved in tech as well then yes. If it is just another role and you have no qualms with your current firm then it is not worth it. Better to focus on strengthening your presence and impact on your current firm than move. Overall, think of your story and what you will be able to say about it about this new role towards your application.
- Any considerations for applying concurrently or in the 1st year of MBA for HKS?
There is one advantage to applying in your first year which is insider knowledge and experience to the school( especially if you end up at HBS). You are able to go and network at HKS, maybe find a way to sit in a class or two, join a club at HKS and have a really solid and authentic story of why HKS.
Good luck and contact
https://zambukoadvisory.com/ if you need to talk more.