Renee Kaplan has been appointed the new CEO of The Philanthropy Workshop, an elite donor education and networking body for the ultra-wealthy. Kaplan will lead its San Francisco, New York and London-based staff, as well as a global network of philanthropists.

Renee Kaplan.

Kaplan, who has a background in business, entrepreneurship and philanthropy, previously worked for the California-based Skoll Foundation as its chief strategy officer and head of programmes.

Her position included overseeing the Skoll Award for Social Entrepreneurship and the Skoll World Forum.

The Philanthropy Workshop combines effective philanthropy education with networking, bringing together a group of over 450 philanthropists worldwide.

It encourages wealthy individuals and families to give better with the goal of instilling sustainable change.

Kaplan says she is ‘incredibly honoured’ to assume the role commenting:

‘Given the state of complex, urgent global problems we currently face, there is a strategic opportunity for philanthropy to drive and share solutions that work,’ she said. ‘Working collectively, I believe we can accelerate innovative new programs to amplify our members’ impact all around the world.’

Katherine Lorenz, president of the foundation established by her grandparents, the Cynthia and George Mitchell Foundation, will remain as The Philanthropy Workshop’s board chair.