Ford Foundation Welcomes Noorain Khan as Chief Innovation Officer Amidst Transformation Efforts

Noorain Khan's New Role at the Ford Foundation

In a significant move aimed at revitalizing its innovation strategy, the Ford Foundation has appointed Noorain Khan as its Vice President and Chief Innovation Officer. Announced today, this newly established role will see Khan join President Heather Gerken's leadership team, driving essential initiatives tied to the foundation's mission and commitment to social equity.

Noorain Khan isn't new to the Ford Foundation; she previously spent nearly a decade there, ascending to senior advisor and director roles under former president Darren Walker. During her tenure, Khan made noteworthy contributions, including the establishment of the foundation's inaugural program team that managed the presidential grant-making budget, as well as launching vital work in disability rights. Under her guidance, the Ford Foundation became the leading private funder for disability rights globally, a testament to her commitment to social justice and equity.

In addition to her work at the foundation, Khan co-founded the Disability Philanthropy Forum and the Disability Inclusion Fund at Borealis Philanthropy, pioneering movements aimed at improving philanthropic engagement in disability rights. Her effectiveness in the sector has sparked interest, even leading to her being featured in a Harvard Law School case study that explores leadership strategies in the public sector.

Heather Gerken expressed enthusiasm about Khan's appointment, stating, "Noorain embodies the innovative spirit and transformative leadership needed to propel the Ford Foundation into its next chapter. Her accomplishments in launching groundbreaking initiatives demonstrate the bold, creative thinking essential to uphold our legacy of innovation."

Addressing her new responsibilities, Khan remarked on the critical nature of the current social climate. "The social sector stands at a pivotal crossroads, necessitating entirely reimagined tools, strategies, and ways of engaging. I'm excited to partner with Heather Gerken and the remarkable Ford leadership team to develop next-generation philanthropic approaches that can address today's urgent challenges."

Khan's journey began as a lawyer at the prestigious firm Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen & Katz in New York City. She is a Rhodes Scholar and a PD Soros Fellow, with degrees that include a JD from Yale Law School and an MPhil in Migration Studies from Oxford University. Additionally, her involvement in various boards, including the Association of American Rhodes Scholars and the New York Women’s Foundation, reflects her dedication to social impact.

Recognized by Forbes' 30 Under 30 list, Khan has also received the George Parkin Service Award for her remarkable contributions to the Rhodes Trust. Her diverse experiences and deep understanding of the Ford Foundation’s mission position her uniquely to lead its initiatives toward a more equitable future.

The Ford Foundation has a long-standing commitment to addressing inequality and fostering social change across the globe with its extensive endowment of $16 billion. With its presence rooted in nearly 90 years of impactful work, the foundation continues to support those championing social justice initiatives worldwide. To learn more about their endeavors, visit www.fordfoundation.org.

In her new executive role, Noorain Khan's leadership is poised to significantly influence the future direction of philanthropy at the Ford Foundation, aligning with the urgent needs of society today.