Gates Foundation Appoints New Leaders, Strengthens Africa and India Operations

The Gates Foundation has announced major leadership changes, appointing prominent economist Dr. Sri Mulyani Indrawati to its governing board and restructuring its operations to give stronger focus to Africa and India.

Dr. Indrawati, Indonesia’s long-serving and first female Finance Minister and former Managing Director of the World Bank, brings decades of global economic and development experience. Her appointment comes at a critical time as the foundation prepares to spend its endowment over the next 20 years on three main goals: ending preventable maternal and infant deaths, eliminating deadly infectious diseases, and lifting millions out of poverty.

Gates Foundation CEO Mark Suzman said Dr. Indrawati’s expertise will help ensure the foundation’s resources are used effectively to promote inclusive growth and opportunity worldwide.

To strengthen regional decision-making, the foundation also created a new Africa and India Offices (AIO) Division, led by Ankur Vora, who will continue as Chief Strategy Officer. The new structure gives greater influence to country offices across Africa and India in shaping strategy and priorities.

Additionally, Hari Menon was appointed President of the Global Growth and Opportunity division, overseeing programs in agriculture, financial inclusion, education, sanitation and digital infrastructure. Menon succeeds Rodger Voorhies, who stepped down after 14 years of leadership.

The changes reflect the foundation’s long-term vision to maximize impact by 2045 through stronger partnerships, local leadership and innovative solutions.