MM

Melissa Maykin

Melissa Maykin


Associate Director, Ford Foundation



Professional Overview


Melissa Maykin is an experienced finance and investment professional serving as the Associate Director at the Ford Foundation in New York. She specializes in private equity and impact investing, leveraging her expertise to drive strategic initiatives and create positive social and environmental change.

Experience Summary



Current Role


As the Associate Director at the Ford Foundation, Melissa oversees a portfolio of mission-aligned investments, working closely with program teams to identify and evaluate opportunities that generate both financial returns and positive social impact. In this capacity, she has led the deployment of over $50 million in impact capital, contributing to the foundation's efforts to address pressing global challenges. Melissa's analytical rigor, collaborative approach, and commitment to social responsibility have made her a valuable asset to the organization.

Career Progression


Prior to joining the Ford Foundation, Melissa held investment roles at the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation and Credit Suisse. As an Investment Associate at the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, she was responsible for analyzing private equity deals and monitoring the performance of the foundation's $1 billion investment portfolio. Earlier in her career, Melissa gained experience in investment banking as an Analyst at Credit Suisse, where she contributed to the successful execution of numerous client transactions.

Academic Background


Melissa holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Economics from Stanford University, where she graduated with honors. During her time at Stanford, she was actively involved in the university's sustainable investing club and completed a senior thesis on the impact of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors on financial performance.

Areas of Expertise


  • Private equity and impact investing

  • Financial analysis and portfolio management

  • Sustainable and socially responsible investing

  • Collaborative leadership and stakeholder management


Professional Impact


Melissa's work at the Ford Foundation has been instrumental in expanding the foundation's impact investing activities and strengthening its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility. She has played a key role in the development and implementation of innovative investment strategies that balance financial returns with positive societal outcomes. Melissa's thought leadership and industry engagement have also contributed to the broader discussions on the role of impact investing in addressing global challenges.

Conclusion


With a proven track record of success in the finance and investment industry, Melissa Maykin is a versatile and impact-driven professional. In her current role at the Ford Foundation, she continues to leverage her expertise to drive sustainable change and create lasting positive impact. Melissa's dedication to social responsibility and her ability to navigate complex investment landscapes make her a valuable asset to the organizations she serves.