Barry Newstead
Barry Newstead, Chief Global Development Officer
Barry Newstead
Chief Global Development Officer, Wikimedia Foundation
"Working to see Wikimedia's projects truly reflect the diversity of knowledge on our planet."

About me

I joined the Wikimedia Foundation in 2010 and am based in San Francisco, though travel regularly to Asia, South America and the Middle East. Prior to joining WMF, I was a Partner with the Bridgespan Group, a nonprofit consulting organization. During my six years at Bridgespan, I led projects with nonprofit organizations and foundations focused on US education reform, technology-based solutions to social challenges and global development. I led Bridgespan's year-long partnerships with the Wikimedia Foundation in support of the strategic planning process that culminated in the Wikimedia Movement Strategic Plan Summary. I started my career with the Boston Consulting Group where I spent eight years working in Asia, Europe and North America.

I was born in Cape Town, South Africa and grew up in Toronto, Canada. I am a Canadian citizen. I did my undergraduate studies at the University of Western Ontario in London, Ontario and also have a Masters in Public Policy from the Harvard Kennedy School.

I live with my partner, Pooi Kheng (PK) in Berkeley. We have two terriers, Tequila and Patch. I can often be found running or cycling in and around Berkeley.

My work

I lead the Wikimedia Foundation's efforts to support growth of the Wikimedia projects in the developing world (with a priority focus on India, Brazil and the Arabic language region), build mobile and offline products and services that expand the reach of Wikimedia-created knowledge, and facilitate the Wikimedia Foundation's relationship with and grantmaking to affiliated chapters and other organizations around the world. In addition, I oversee WMF's communications team and a research team. More information about the Global Development team is available on Meta-Wiki.

Disclaimer: I work for the Wikimedia Foundation, and this is the account I intend to use for edits or statements I make in that role. However, the Foundation does not vet all my activity, so edits, statements, or other contributions made by this account may not reflect the views of the Foundation.

Contact me