Menlo Park, California, United States, October 2025 – The William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, one of the most respected philanthropic organizations in the world, has announced the appointment of Edna Cruz as its new Chief People Officer (CPO). In her new role, Edna will lead the Foundation’s people strategy, organizational culture, and talent development initiatives, ensuring alignment with the Foundation’s mission of advancing social equity, climate resilience, and democratic values.
Edna Cruz brings over 20 years of diverse HR leadership experience spanning the nonprofit and private sectors. Her career has been defined by her ability to drive strategic people transformation, strengthen organizational culture, and design human capital systems that empower employees to thrive.
Prior to joining the Hewlett Foundation, Edna served as Chief People Officer at Winrock International, where she led the People and Culture unit for over five years. In this role, she oversaw global HR strategy, talent management, and leadership development, fostering a culture of collaboration and inclusion across international teams.
Before Winrock, she spent nearly a decade at the American Red Cross, where she held several senior HR leadership positions, including Vice President of Human Resources for the Biomedical Services Group and Director of Talent & Organization Development. During her tenure, she played a crucial role in talent transformation, change management, and organizational effectiveness programs that supported thousands of employees nationwide.
Earlier in her career, Edna spent over a decade with Computer Sciences Corporation (CSC), where she held progressive roles in learning and development, culminating in her position as Global Learning Architect. At CSC, she was instrumental in developing global learning frameworks and leadership development initiatives that enhanced business performance across multiple geographies.
About the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation
Founded in 1966, the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation is a nonpartisan global philanthropy dedicated to solving some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Based in Menlo Park, California, the Foundation supports creative thinkers and problem-solvers working toward advancing social equity, protecting the environment, strengthening democracy, and fostering education and cultural development.
Over nearly six decades, the Hewlett Foundation has become a trusted partner in the global philanthropic landscape, known for its long-term grant-making approach, emphasis on collaboration, and commitment to measurable impact. Through sustained investment and partnership, it continues to empower communities and institutions to build a more equitable and sustainable world.
Read Also : When HR “Produces Nothing”: A Response to Jennifer Sey’s Anti-HR Vision
The Fine Balance: Navigating Work, Life, and Mental Wellbeing
Mind the Leadership Gap – From Learning to Real-World Impact
How the Adecco Group is empowering its employees for the future of work
