Shana Tarbell

Shana Tarbell is the foundation’s Chief Operating Officer, responsible for driving much of the daily operations that enable the organization’s mission. She leads a broad portfolio of teams—including Facilities, Events, Travel, Security, Information Technology, People, and a small team focused on strategic cross-operational initiatives—and works closely with operational leaders to ensure that all functions are integrated, efficient, and aligned around a shared purpose.

Previously, Shana served as the foundation’s Chief Security Officer for six years, overseeing all aspects of staff safety and security, including information security. She joined the foundation in 2015 as a deputy director on the Security team, bringing deep expertise in risk management and global affairs.

Before entering philanthropy, Shana spent 18 years at the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency, where she served on the Senior Intelligence Service and held leadership roles addressing complex global challenges. In 2015, she received the federal government’s Meritorious Presidential Rank Award, recognizing her sustained excellence at the senior executive level—an honor awarded to no more than 5% of federal career senior executives. She also received the CIA’s Distinguished Career Intelligence Medal for exceptional service.