Foundation Names Martha Choe as Chief Administrative Officer

SEATTLE -- The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation today announced that Martha Choe has been named Chief Administrative Officer (CAO). Choe has served as Director, Global Libraries initiative at the Foundation since 2004.

This newly created position will help facilitate the next period of rapid growth at the Foundation. Choe will oversee four departments which are critical for managing the current and future growth of the foundation’s staff: Information Technology, Human Resources, Facilities, and Security.

Along with Chief Financial Officer, General Counsel, Chief Communications Officer, and Managing Director of Public Policy, the CAO will be an integral part of the organization's Management Committee advising the Chief Executive Officer and co-chairs. These positions report to CEO Patty Stonesifer and will work in partnership with the presidents of the three program groups (Global Health, Global Development and U.S. Program).

Prior to her work with the foundation, Choe had a long career in public service as director of the Washington State Department of Community, Trade and Economic Development and successfully led the state's bid for the Boeing 787 assembly plant. She also served two four-year terms on the Seattle City Council. Prior to public service, Choe was a vice president at the Bank of California in the Seattle and Bellevue branches.

"It has been an honor to work on the foundation's library efforts, helping to advance the foundation's mission to help reduce inequities in the United States and around the world, and I am thrilled to serve in this new position," Choe said.  "I look forward to working with the staff, our partners, and the greater Seattle community to help this organization grow and expand the efficacy of our work."

To reduce inequities in the United States and around the world, foundation programs and investments are focused in three areas—improving global health, reducing global poverty, and strengthening education in the United States. To achieve its goal, the foundation focuses on a limited set of problems; promotes innovative solutions; creates partnerships with businesses, government, and others to find solutions; and shares results and adjust its strategies through learning.

"Martha's expertise, passion, and leadership will help guide the foundation during a crucial time of rapid growth," said Patty Stonesifer, CEO, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. "I am thrilled that she will lead our efforts to ensure that we have the skilled and committed talent throughout the organization needed to ensure the success of the foundation and its mission."

Choe will begin transitioning into her new role at the foundation during the next 60 days and will continue to be based in the Seattle office.