Paula Hurd: From Tech Executive to Philanthropist and Partner of Bill Gates

Paula Hurd, a prominent figure in the tech and philanthropic spheres, gained widespread attention following the confirmation of her relationship with bill Gates in early 2023. However, her journey extends far beyond this high-profile connection. With a background in technology sales and a dedication to charitable causes, Paula Hurd has carved out a critically important presence in her own right. Her estimated net worth is around $35 million, stemming from her career and investments, with potential inheritance from her late husband, Mark Hurd, former CEO of Hewlett-Packard and Oracle. Forbes reports Bill Gates’ net worth at $132.9 billion as of June 2024.

Early Life and Career

Paula Hurd’s professional life began in the tech industry, where she honed her skills in sales and business advancement. While specific details about her early career remain relatively private, her success in the field contributed significantly to her financial standing. she and Mark Hurd where major donors to Baylor University, their alma mater, giving $7 million to fund projects like basketball pavilions and a welcome center. baylor University opened the Mark and paula Hurd Welcome Center in Fall 2023.

Philanthropic Endeavors

Following the passing of her husband, Mark Hurd, in 2019, Paula Hurd channeled her energy into philanthropic pursuits, continuing the couple’s legacy of giving. She actively manages Hurd Family Investments (MPH Investments), overseeing portfolios and organizing large-scale charitable events. Her passion for tennis led her to chair the Universal Tennis Foundation, where she supports student-athletes and wheelchair tennis players.

Did You No? The Universal Tennis Rating (UTR) system is used globally to rate tennis players nonetheless of age, gender, or location, facilitating fair and competitive matches.

Relationship with Bill Gates

Paula Hurd and Bill gates were first seen together at tennis tournaments in 2021, sparking rumors about a potential relationship. the relationship was confirmed in early 2023,and in February 2025,Gates publicly acknowledged Paula as his girlfriend during an interview on The Today Show. The couple has since been seen at various high-profile events, including Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez’s engagement party in August 2023.

Net Worth and Financial Profile

Paula Hurd’s net worth is estimated to be between $4 million and $35 million, with many sources citing the higher end of that range. This wealth is attributed to her tech sales career, strategic investments, and potential inheritance from Mark Hurd, whose net worth was estimated between $150 million and $500 million at the time of his death. Investopedia offers resources for understanding net worth calculations.

pro Tip: Diversifying investments across various asset classes can help mitigate risk and potentially increase long-term returns.

Lifestyle and Public Image

Despite her association with one of the world’s wealthiest individuals, paula Hurd maintains a relatively low-key lifestyle. She is often seen at tennis matches and philanthropic events, and occasionally attends high-society functions alongside Bill Gates. Her style is described as understated and elegant, reflecting her focus on substance over superficiality.

Paula Hurd: A Summary

What aspects of Paula Hurd’s life do you find most inspiring? How do you think her philanthropic efforts will evolve in the future?