Franci Phelan Joins the Foundation - Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation

SEATTLE – The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation announced today that Franci Phelan joins the organization as chief human resources officer. Phelan comes to the foundation from Pioneer Hi-Bred International, a DuPont company, where she served as global vice president of human resources.

“Franci is a talented executive with a passion for the work of the foundation and its grantees,” said Jeff Raikes, CEO of the Gates Foundation. “There are more than 700 employees now at the foundation, and Franci will provide valuable leadership as well as a vital link between our diverse and talented staff and our leadership team.”

In addition to her role as global vice president of human resources at Pioneer Hi-Bred International, Phelan served as director of human resources for DuPont’s agriculture and nutrition businesses. Throughout her 20-year career, she has held senior level positions at companies such as Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, The Principal Financial Group, TDS Telecom, and Miller Brewing Company.

As chief human resources officer for the Gates Foundation, Phelan will design strategies to ensure that it remains a preeminent workplace, supporting employees as they partner with grantees and others to make sure all people lead healthy, productive lives.

“I’m thrilled to be joining the Gates Foundation,” said Phelan. “It has a reputation for attracting the world’s top talent, and I’m looking forward to working closely with leadership and the human resources team to plan for smart growth in the years ahead.”

Phelan’s community involvement is extensive. She has served on the board of directors for Hospice of Central Iowa, Special Olympics of Central Iowa, the Des Moines Public Library, and the Des Moines Higher Education Institution. She is deeply involved with the United Way of Central Iowa and also represents agribusiness on the board of directors for the National Council of Ag Education (NCAE).

Phelan holds a Master of Science in management from Indiana Wesleyan University and a Bachelor of Arts in business communication from Arizona State University. She is a certified Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) and Global Professional in Human Resources (GPHR).