Bill Gates, the billionaire co-founder of Microsoft, has found love again after his divorce from Melinda French Gates in August 2021. The tech mogul, 69, is now dating Paula Hurd, 62, a well-respected philanthropist and former executive. Their relationship, which has been the subject of much speculation, was confirmed by Gates himself during an appearance on the TODAY show. “I’m lucky to have a serious girlfriend named Paula. So we’re having fun, going to the Olympics and lots of great things,” said Bill Gates during the interview.

The couple first made headlines when they appeared together at multiple high-profile events, including the Breakthrough Prize Ceremony in April 2024. Their romance became public knowledge in February 2023, although reports suggest they had been spotted together as early as September 2022.

Who Is Paula Hurd?

Paula Hurd holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Texas at Austin, graduating in 1984. She began her professional career at National Cash Register (NCR), a globally recognized enterprise software and hardware provider. Her expertise in sales and alliance management positioned her as a leading business executive, capable of orchestrating high-profile projects and events.

Over the years, Paula Hurd has gained recognition for her strategic planning and event management skills, managing corporate and philanthropic gatherings that have drawn business leaders and influential figures from around the world.

Before dating Bill Gates, Paula Hurd was married to Mark Hurd, the former CEO of Oracle and Hewlett-Packard (HP). Their marriage lasted for nearly 30 years, and together they raised two daughters, Kathryn and Kelly. Sadly, Mark Hurd passed away in October 2019 after a battle with illness. His contributions to the tech industry, especially during his tenure at Oracle, were widely acknowledged, and Paula Hurd played a significant role in continuing their shared philanthropic efforts after his passing.

One of her major contributions includes her support for Baylor University, Mark Hurd’s alma mater. The Mark and Paula Hurd Welcome Center and the Hurd Tennis Center stand as testaments to their generosity. More recently, Paula Hurd donated $7 million toward the construction of the Baylor Basketball Pavilion, which includes the Mark and Paula Hurd Floor.

Paula Hurd and Bill Gates: A Timeline of Their Relationship

While Bill Gates and Paula Hurd were first seen together publicly in September 2022, their relationship was officially reported in February 2023. Since then, the couple has attended multiple elite gatherings and high-profile events. They were spotted together on Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez’s engagement party. They made their first red carpet appearance at the Breakthrough Prize Ceremony. The lovebirds traveled to the Paris Olympics alongside Bill Gates’ daughter Jennifer Gates and her husband Nayel Nassar

During mid-2023, speculation about a possible engagement arose after Paula Hurd was seen wearing a ring. However, a spokesperson for Bill Gates clarified that the ring was not new and had been in her possession for decades.

Both Bill Gates and Paula Hurd share a deep passion for philanthropy, technology, and education. Their mutual commitment to global development initiatives aligns well with Gates’ mission through the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Moreover, Paula Hurd’s extensive experience in event management and corporate networking makes her a valued companion to Bill Gates, who frequently engages in high-level discussions with world leaders and industry experts.

Despite his immense fortune and influence, Bill Gates has often been described as reserved and private. However, his relationship with Paula Hurd has brought him into the spotlight in a different way, as the couple enjoys traveling, attending major events, and spending quality time together.

Inside Bill Gates and Paula Hurd’s Life Together

Some notable public sightings of the couple include: Both Gates and Hurd share a love for tennis, frequently attending major tournaments like Wimbledon and the US Open. Gates often participates in high-level discussions, and Paula Hurd has accompanied him to various technology conferences and charitable galas. The pair has been seen vacationing in Europe and the Caribbean, enjoying private retreats and exclusive events. As their relationship continues to develop, many are speculating whether Bill Gates and Paula Hurd will take the next step toward marriage. While neither has commented on the possibility, their frequent appearances together suggest a deep and growing connection.

Given Bill Gates’ philanthropic focus and Paula Hurd’s background in corporate networking and event planning, their union could potentially lead to new joint initiatives in philanthropy, technology, and global development.

The relationship between Bill Gates and Paula Hurd marks a new chapter in the life of one of the world’s most influential figures. With shared interests in philanthropy, technology, and high-profile networking, their companionship seems not only strong but also mutually beneficial. As they continue to make public appearances and support charitable causes, it remains to be seen how their relationship will evolve in the years to come.