On Monday, Darren Walker, the influential President of the Ford Foundation, revealed his plans to step down from his leadership role after more than a decade of service.
In an exclusive interview with the New York Times, Walker, now 64, disclosed his intention to leave his position by the close of 2025.
“Philanthropy as a field needs new leaders and a constant refreshing because as a sector we can be self-satisfied and lose the edge to our work,” Walker explained to the New York Times, highlighting the importance of fresh perspectives in charitable organizations.
Acknowledging the allure of such influential positions, Walker added, “Some people stay in foundation jobs too long because it’s intoxicating every day to be in a position where people are deferential.”
Chair of Ford Foundation’s Board Praised Walker’s Tenure
Francisco Cigarroa, the chair of the Ford Foundation’s board, praised Walker’s tenure and revealed that preparations for succession are already underway.
“Walker has guided Ford through some of the most challenging moments of our time with grace, kindness, and empathy, and his tenure will be remembered as one of the most consequential periods in the institution’s nearly 90-year history,” Cigarroa stated.
During Walker’s leadership, the Foundation significantly expanded its grant-making efforts, particularly focusing on empowering women and girls globally. However, his announcement comes amid controversy, with recent allegations from the Kenyan government accusing the Foundation of funding organizations that allegedly fueled unrest in the country.
In response to these claims, the Ford Foundation firmly denied any wrongdoing, stating,
“All the information about its operations in Kenya was transparently available on its website.” The Foundation emphasized that its primary role in Kenya has been providing charitable support to various sectors of the country’s economy.
