Sonia Vora

Sonia Vora

Former Chief Human Resources Officer
Gates Foundation

Champion for Human Potential | Cultural Catalyst | Visionary Leader

A sought-after speaker at prestigious platforms including TedX, Web Summit, universities around the world and leading professional associations such as Page (for Global Corporate Affairs chiefs) and SHRM (Society for Human Resource Management), Sonia Vora transforms how organizations navigate change and unlock human potential.

Sonia served as CHRO of the Gates Foundation, where she led talent and people strategies supporting employees around the world. She is now bringing her strategic vision to today's most pressing wellness challenges as Chief Strategy Officer at Brytr, where she leverages her extensive experience in global health systems to develop accessible, science-backed nutritional psychiatry solutions addressing the nutrition-mental health connection.

Throughout her distinguished career, Sonia has:

  • Pioneered AI integration in HR, dramatically improving efficiency and engagement
  • Rebuilt and scaled HR functions, positioning them as strategic drivers of success
  • Developed sophisticated analytics capabilities, enabling data-driven talent decisions
  • Revitalized global compensation frameworks, enhancing equity and transparency
  • Championed innovative approaches to hybrid work, boosting productivity and satisfaction

With a strong background building global functions and organizations to improve employee engagement and scalable growth, Sonia previously held leadership roles at Northern Trust and Cetera Financial Group. Her academic credentials include an MBA in international finance from Georgetown University, an M.A. with honors in creative writing from Temple University, and a B.A. from Albion College with a double major in English and economics.

As a thought leader, Sonia shares compelling insights on:

  • Enabling the workforce of the future with AI
  • Empowering women in leadership
  • Balancing empathy and resilience to build clarity and results in volatile environments
  • Navigating corporate politics
  • Transforming people functions into strategic business partners

Sonia's leadership is defined by radical openness, a unique blend of analytical rigor and creative insight. She creates clarity in complex situations, applies courage in making bold decisions and brings her ability to foster trust through empathetic communication. Her leadership philosophy centers around the belief that everyone has inherent and unique value, and her role is to help people see and express that. Sonia is passionate about breaking societal expectations and helping people feel confident in their worth, regardless of external judgment. Her approach consistently enhances how organizations adapt to change, standing at the intersection of organizational transformation, talent strategy, and innovation. Invite Sonia to your next event to inspire your audience with actionable strategies that break barriers, challenge expectations, and create environments where human potential knows no bounds.