Countess Karen Spencer

Karen Spencer is a renowned social entrepreneur and systems change expert, known for driving transformative solutions across child welfare, land management, and sustainability.

 

As the founder of Whole Child International, she pioneered a pragmatic approach to implementing relationship-centred care, significantly improving outcomes for vulnerable children, and earning recognition as an Ashoka Fellow. Now serving as Chair of the Board, Karen continues to provide strategic leadership for the organisation’s systemic impact.

 

She is also a Founding Member of Catalyst 2030, a global movement of social entrepreneurs accelerating progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As co-chair and member of the Shifting the Funding Paradigm group, she advocates for funding models that prioritise long-term impact and systemic change.

 

In 2020, Karen expanded her focus to sustainable and financially viable land management, leading the planned transformation of the historic Althorp Estate by getting 4,500 acres to regenerative organic farming conversion, promoting biodiversity, and aligning with sustainability goals.

 

With her expertise in philanthropy and social innovation, she plays a significant role in discussions on how corporations can contribute to the SDGs.

 

Karen also serves on the boards of the Center for Global Development and Integrity Soils, advancing sustainable land management and poverty reduction initiatives globally.