David O’Sullivan joins board of the King Baudouin Foundation

The King Baudouin Foundation is delighted to announce the appointment to its Board of Governors of David O’Sullivan, who joins Belgium’s leading philanthropy institution after a distinguished career in the European public service.

A former Secretary-General of the Commission and EU ambassador to the United States, David O’Sullivan brings a unique European perspective to the board as the Foundation develops its international presence through a growing network of partnerships across Europe.

The first Chief Operating Officer of the European External Action Service, the diplomatic arm that represented the European Union’s global ambitions when it was founded in 2010, the Irishman now becomes the first non-Belgian to sit on the Foundation’s board. It marks a declaration of intent by the Brussels-based institution to be an enabler for a new era of cross border giving, helping those who wish to make a difference, wherever they may be.

The King Baudouin Foundation today makes over €96 million in grants annually, of which 16 percent goes to recipients in Europe across Belgium’s borders. KBF’s Chairman Thomas Leysen said: “The King Baudouin Foundation has been working at both the local, regional and federal levels in Belgium and at the European level, and we are delighted to welcome to the board as committed a European as David O’Sullivan.”

David O’Sullivan said: “The King Baudouin Foundation has created a leading role for itself among innovators in philanthropy and I am excited about this opportunity to contribute to the work of the Foundation for which I have always had a very high regard.”

About the King Baudouin Foundation
The King Baudouin Foundation's mission is to contribute to a better society in Belgium, in Europe and in the world. It is an actor for change and innovation, serving the public interest and increasing social cohesion. It seeks to maximise its impact by improving skills in organisations and for individuals. It also stimulates effective philanthropy by individuals and corporations. The King Baudouin Foundation was set up in 1976, on the 25th anniversary of King Baudouin's reign.