Wikimedia Foundation Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Wikimedia Foundation has 8 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, communications, and community engagement.

Driven by a mission to empower humanity through free knowledge, Wikimedia Foundation operates some of the world's most visited websites, fostering a global community dedicated to open access and collaborative learning.

Leadership Roles at Wikimedia Foundation

  • Chief Executive Officer - Bernadette Meehan
  • President - Shobowale Lekan
  • President - Carolin Geb
  • Group President, Wikimedia Community User (Sri Lanka) - Rehman Abubakr
  • President, Wikimedia LLC - Lane Becker
  • Chief of Staff - Nadee Gunasena
  • Deputy Chief of Staff - Margo Lee
  • Chief Communications Officer - Anusha Alikhan
  • Bernadette Meehan - Chief Executive Officer

    Bernadette Meehan, the Chief Executive Officer at Wikimedia Foundation, directs the overarching strategy and operational execution for the organization's global free knowledge initiatives. Overseeing the foundation's mission to empower humanity through free knowledge, Meehan ensures the continued growth and accessibility of Wikipedia and its sister projects. This leadership role involves guiding the organization's strategic partnerships and resource allocation to maximize impact across diverse global communities. By fostering innovation in technology and content accessibility, Bernadette Meehan drives the foundation's commitment to open information. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to ensuring the long-term sustainability and ethical governance of the Wikimedia ecosystem, solidifying its position as a vital global resource for learning and information sharing.
    Bernadette Meehan

    Shobowale Lekan - President

    Shobowale Lekan, the President at Wikimedia Foundation, leads strategic initiatives focused on community engagement and platform development. Overseeing programs that foster user participation and content creation, Lekan drives the expansion of free knowledge resources across diverse linguistic communities. This executive role involves cultivating relationships with global Wikimedia contributors and ensuring their needs are integrated into the foundation's strategic planning. By championing initiatives that empower editors and readers, Shobowale Lekan enhances the vibrancy and reach of Wikipedia and its sister projects. The President's focus on community empowerment is critical to sustaining the collaborative spirit that underpins the foundation's global impact.

    Carolin Geb - President

    Carolin Geb, the President at Wikimedia Foundation, spearheads strategic planning and operational oversight for key organizational functions. Overseeing the development and implementation of critical projects, Geb ensures alignment with the foundation's mission to provide free and accessible knowledge worldwide. This leadership role involves driving efficiency and innovation across various departments, supporting the growth of Wikipedia and its related platforms. By focusing on strategic partnerships and resource optimization, Carolin Geb enhances the foundation's capacity to serve a global audience. The President's dedication to operational excellence is fundamental to maintaining the integrity and reach of the world's largest collaborative knowledge repository.

    Rehman Abubakr - Group President, Wikimedia Community User (Sri Lanka)

    Rehman Abubakr, the Group President, Wikimedia Community User (Sri Lanka) at Wikimedia Foundation, champions the growth and engagement of the Wikimedia community within Sri Lanka and surrounding regions. Overseeing local initiatives and user support, Abubakr fosters an environment conducive to content creation and knowledge sharing in diverse languages. This role involves representing the interests of the Sri Lankan Wikimedia user base and ensuring their contributions align with the foundation's global objectives. By facilitating local collaboration and addressing community needs, Rehman Abubakr strengthens the presence and impact of free knowledge resources in the region. The Group President's focus on community development is vital for expanding the reach and diversity of Wikimedia projects.

    Lane Becker - President, Wikimedia LLC

    Lane Becker, the President, Wikimedia LLC at Wikimedia Foundation, directs the strategic operations and business development for the foundation's subsidiary entities. Overseeing the management of specific projects and partnerships, Becker ensures that these ventures effectively support the broader mission of providing free knowledge globally. This executive position involves driving innovation and operational efficiency within Wikimedia LLC, contributing to the overall success of the foundation's diverse initiatives. By focusing on strategic growth and resource management, Lane Becker enhances the foundation's capacity to deliver impactful free knowledge resources. The President's leadership is instrumental in navigating the complex landscape of digital information and community support.

    Nadee Gunasena - Chief of Staff

    Nadee Gunasena, the Chief of Staff at Wikimedia Foundation, manages strategic initiatives and operational efficiency across the executive team. Overseeing critical projects and cross-departmental coordination, Gunasena ensures alignment with the foundation's core mission of providing free knowledge globally. This role involves facilitating communication between leadership and various operational units, driving key organizational priorities forward. By streamlining internal processes and supporting executive decision-making, Nadee Gunasena enhances the foundation's capacity to serve its worldwide user base. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include driving special projects and ensuring the effective implementation of strategic plans, thereby contributing directly to the operational success of Wikipedia and its related platforms.

    Margo Lee - Deputy Chief of Staff

    Margo Lee, the Deputy Chief of Staff at Wikimedia Foundation, supports the Chief of Staff in executing strategic priorities and managing operational workflows. Overseeing specific projects and ensuring seamless execution of executive directives, Lee contributes to the efficient functioning of the foundation's global operations. This position involves coordinating efforts across various departments to advance the mission of providing free knowledge. By assisting in the development and implementation of key initiatives, Margo Lee plays a crucial part in enhancing the foundation's capacity to support Wikipedia and its sister projects. The Deputy Chief of Staff's focus on operational excellence directly supports the organization's commitment to accessibility and community engagement worldwide.

    Anusha Alikhan - Chief Communications Officer

    Anusha Alikhan, the Chief Communications Officer at Wikimedia Foundation, directs all external and internal communication strategies to advance the organization's mission. Overseeing public relations, media engagement, and brand messaging, Alikhan ensures the foundation's narrative effectively communicates its impact on global knowledge sharing. This leadership position involves shaping the public perception of Wikipedia and its vital role in providing free, accessible information worldwide. By managing stakeholder relations and developing compelling communication campaigns, Anusha Alikhan strengthens the foundation's connection with its diverse global audience. The Chief Communications Officer's strategic direction is essential for fostering understanding and support for the Wikimedia movement's ongoing efforts.
    Anusha Alikhan

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Wikimedia Foundation Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Wikimedia Foundation?
    Wikimedia Foundation is led by Bernadette Meehan (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Shobowale Lekan (President) and Carolin Geb (President).
    Who is part of Wikimedia Foundation’s executive team?
    The executive team of Wikimedia Foundation includes leaders such as Bernadette Meehan (Chief Executive Officer), Shobowale Lekan (President), Carolin Geb (President) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Wikimedia Foundation have?
    Wikimedia Foundation has 8 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Wikimedia Foundation’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Wikimedia Foundation includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President, President, Group President, Wikimedia Community User (Sri Lanka), President, Wikimedia LLC.