Lauren Woodman

Lauren Woodman is the Chief Executive Officer of DataKind, a leading global nonprofit focused on harnessing the power of data science and artificial intelligence for social good, including economic empowerment, education, humanitarian response, global health, and climate impact. With more than 25 years of experience at the intersection of technology, policy, and international development, she is widely recognized for her leadership in advancing data‑driven solutions that expand opportunities and strengthen communities around the world.

Before joining DataKind, Woodman served as CEO of NetHope, a consortium of more than 60 major global nonprofits and technology partners, where she directed efforts to bring technology and digital transformation to humanitarian and conservation organizations. Prior to that, she spent over a decade at Microsoft, where she led the company’s global education and government engagement programs, helping to align technology initiatives with large‑scale social impact goals. She has also held leadership roles in government, with the United Nations, and as an executive with the Software and Information Industry Association.

Woodman is a respected voice in the broader data and AI policy community, serving on strategic advisory bodies including the World Economic Forum’s Board of Stewards for its Initiative on Digital Economy and Trustworthy Data Collaboration. She holds degrees from Smith College and the Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies, and lives in Seattle with her family.

Under her leadership, DataKind has expanded its global impact, advancing ethical, scalable data tools and partnerships that enable mission‑driven organizations to tackle complex challenges through data and AI.