The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation is reversing course and considering shaking up its governance structure in the wake of the billionaire couple’s divorce — and amid revelations about Bill Gates’ workplace behavior and that of his associates.
In a U-turn from its previous stance, the foundation, which is controlled by the Gateses and Warren Buffett, all acting as trustees, is now considering forming a board and bringing in outside directors, the Wall Street Journal reported.
The organization had previously told reporters after the Gateses announced their divorce earlier this month that “no changes to their roles or the organization are planned.”
The foundation, one of the largest charitable organizations in the world, differs from many other large philanthropies by not having a board of independent directors.
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation is considering bringing in outside directors amid recent changes and revelations in the billionaire couple’s lives.David Ryder/Getty Images Bill and Melinda Gates announced they were getting a divorce on May 3, 2021.Lemouton/Pool/SIPA/Shutterstock
Gates’ now-estranged wife, Melinda French Gates, has pushed for the changes to ensure the future stability of the foundation, the Journal reported, citing anonymous sources.
“As I told foundation employees last week, I’m actively discussing
