Paula Hurd, the name that's been buzzing across headlines, is much more than just the girlfriend of Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates. While her relationship with Gates has certainly drawn attention, especially following his high-profile divorce from Melinda French Gates in 2021, Paula’s life is a story of resilience, success, and purpose. A respected businesswoman, philanthropist, and event planner, she’s built a life that stands on its own merits—long before stepping into the spotlight. So, who exactly is Paula Hurd, and why does the public care so much about her? Let’s dive in.

For those curious about the woman who’s now a regular part of Gates’ public life, Paula Hurd offers a fascinating glimpse into a life that blends personal strength with professional achievement. Her journey from corporate events to philanthropy and beyond has been quietly impressive. And now, with her relationship with one of the world’s most recognizable billionaires, she’s capturing the attention of people across the globe.

So, whether you're wondering how she met Bill Gates, what she does for a living, or what her life looks like today, this post breaks down everything you need to know about Paula Hurd. Let’s get started.

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Table of Contents

• Biography
• Early Life and Career
• Personal Life and Marriage
• Relationship with Bill Gates
• Paula Hurd Bio Data
• FAQs

Biography

Paula Hurd, born Paula Kalupa, is an American businesswoman, philanthropist, and event organizer who has spent decades building a career rooted in precision and purpose. Long before her name was linked to Bill Gates, she was already well-established in the world of corporate events and charitable causes. Her expertise in event planning brought her into contact with high-profile executives and industry leaders, eventually leading her to marry Mark Hurd, the late CEO of Oracle.

After Mark’s passing in 2019, Paula remained active in both business and philanthropy, maintaining a quiet but impactful presence in the corporate world. Her work, while not always in the spotlight, has always been driven by a desire to make a difference—something that continues today as she steps into a more public role as Bill Gates’ partner.

Early Life and Career

Details about Paula Hurd’s early life remain relatively private, but what is known is that she carved out a successful career in event planning and corporate consulting. She became known for her ability to manage large-scale events with grace and precision, a skill that placed her in the orbit of major tech executives and business leaders.

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Her career really took off when she joined forces with her late husband, Mark Hurd, who served as CEO of Hewlett-Packard (HP) and later Oracle. As a key figure in his life and career, Paula played a supporting role in his professional endeavors, often behind the scenes. She was also deeply involved in philanthropy, working on initiatives related to education, healthcare, and women’s empowerment.

Personal Life and Marriage

Paula Kalupa and Mark Hurd married in 2008, and together they became a well-respected power couple in Silicon Valley. Mark’s career spanned decades, and Paula stood by his side through the ups and downs of the tech world. Their partnership was both personal and professional, and together they supported a number of charitable causes.

Mark Hurd passed away in 2019 after a battle with cancer, leaving Paula to navigate life as a widow. Despite the loss, she remained active in the community and continued to work in event planning and philanthropy. It was in the years following his death that she reportedly met Bill Gates, beginning a new chapter in her life.

Relationship with Bill Gates

The relationship between Paula Hurd and Bill Gates became public in 2022, a year after Gates’ divorce from Melinda French Gates was finalized. While the couple has kept much of their personal life private, Gates has spoken publicly about his happiness in finding a new partner.

In a 2022 interview on NBC’s “Today,” Gates confirmed he was dating Paula, stating, “I’m lucky to have a serious girlfriend named Paula.” The comment, though brief, offered a rare glimpse into his personal life post-divorce. The two have since been seen together at various events and philanthropic gatherings, with Paula often acting as his companion and confidante.

While some media outlets speculated about the nature of their relationship early on, Gates has made it clear that Paula plays a significant role in his life. Their bond appears to be built on shared interests, particularly in the realm of global health and charitable giving.

Paula Hurd Bio Data

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is Paula Hurd?

Paula Hurd is an American businesswoman and philanthropist who gained public attention as the girlfriend of Bill Gates. She was previously married to Mark Hurd, the former CEO of Oracle.

How did Paula Hurd and Bill Gates meet?

Details on how Paula Hurd and Bill Gates met are not fully known, but it’s believed they were introduced through mutual connections in the philanthropy and tech worlds. They began dating in 2022, after Gates’ divorce from Melinda French Gates.

What does Paula Hurd do for a living?

Paula Hurd has a long career in event planning and has worked with several high-profile executives and organizations. She is also deeply involved in philanthropy, focusing on causes like education and women's health.

Learn more about Bill Gates' personal life on our site.

For more on the latest developments in Paula Hurd's life and her role in the Gates Foundation, you can check out The New York Times.

Check out this page to explore more on celebrity relationships.