HOUSTON – (April 22, 2025) – Rice University’s Doerr Institute for New Leaders has appointed Rodi Guidero, executive director of Breakthrough Energy, to its external board. A visionary and influential leader, Guidero brings a wealth of expertise in leadership and innovation that will contribute to the institute’s mission of developing principled and effective leaders.
“I’m honored to join the external board of Rice’s Doerr Institute for New Leaders and grateful to John and Ann Doerr for their bold vision,” Guidero said. “Too often leadership is expected without being taught, leaving many unprepared to lead with clarity and purpose. The Doerr Institute fills that gap by developing leaders grounded in both competence and character. Every Rice student has the opportunity to grow through this transformative work, and I’m excited to help expand its impact across the university and beyond.”
“We are delighted to welcome Rodi Guidero to the external board of the Doerr Institute for New Leaders,” said Ann Doerr, the institute’s co-founder. “Rodi brings a rare combination of strategic insight, deep experience and an unwavering commitment to developing leaders who make a difference. His integrity, thoughtfulness and passion for service align perfectly with the institute’s mission, and I am confident his perspective will be a tremendous asset as we continue to grow our impact at Rice and beyond.”
As executive director of Breakthrough Energy, the climate technology investment fund spearheaded by Bill Gates, Guidero has played a pivotal role in advancing clean energy solutions. Since its founding in 2015, Breakthrough Energy has raised more than $4.5 billion and supported over 165 climate tech companies across various sectors and continents.
Guidero also serves as a managing partner of Breakthrough Energy Ventures (BEV), a collection of funds and a division of Breakthrough Energy. BEV invests in, launches and helps scale global companies that are tackling the biggest sources of greenhouse gases across the global economy.
Guidero remains part of Gates’ private office, where he manages his interests in strategic personal investments and business relationships.
“Rodi Guidero is a visionary leader who is shepherding some of the world’s most innovative energy companies,” said Bernie Banks, director of the Doerr Institute. “His leadership competence and unassailable character will aid the Doerr Institute for New Leaders tremendously in its efforts to remain at the forefront of ethical leader development. We look forward to partnering with Rodi and all of the institute’s external board members as we explore innovative ways to enhance the Rice University student experience.”
“Rodi Guidero is an exceptional leader with a deep passion for studying leadership and continually enhancing his effectiveness,” said John Strackhouse, chairman of the Doerr Institute’s external board. “He leads with integrity, embodies humility and is dedicated to the leadership development of the Breakthrough Energy organization. We are privileged that Rodi has decided to join the Doerr Institute for New Leaders. We look forward to collaborating with him closely for the benefit of Rice University.”
Guidero’s extensive background in venture capital and strategic investment also includes serving as general counsel for two Silicon Valley-based venture capital firms and working at BMGI (now Cascade Investment), where he managed Gates’ strategic investments in early stage technology companies and venture capital funds.
Guidero holds a law degree from Stanford Law School and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Washington.