The career trajectory of Dina Powell encompasses senior roles within the Executive Office of the President of the United States, global financial institutions, and major technology firms. Born in Cairo in 1973, she navigated a path from public service in Washington to the executive suites of Goldman Sachs and eventually the presidency of Meta.
Political Foundations
After graduating from the University of Texas at Austin in 1995, Powell began her career in Washington, D.C. as an intern for Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison. She subsequently served on the staff of House Majority Leader Dick Armey for four years before joining the Republican National Committee as Director of Congressional Affairs. These roles facilitated her entry into the George W. Bush administration, where she functioned as Assistant to the President for Presidential Personnel, overseeing appointments for cabinet and subcabinet positions.
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During the George W. Bush administration, Powell served as the Assistant Secretary of State for Educational and Cultural Affairs between 2005 and 2007. Following her diplomatic service, she joined Goldman Sachs in 2007. During her tenure at the firm, she became a partner and managed the Goldman Sachs Foundation, directing the 10,000 Women program. Her expertise in finance and policy led to her appointment as Deputy National Security Advisor for Strategy during the Trump administration from 2017 to 2018.
Executive Leadership
Powell returned to Goldman Sachs in 2018 as a partner and member of the management committee. Her later career shifted toward large-scale organizational leadership, including a role at BDT & MSD Partners and a position as chair of the Robin Hood Foundation. By January 2026, she assumed the role of president and vice chair at Meta, following a brief period as a board member for the company.
Fast facts
- Born: 1973, Cairo, Egypt
- Education: University of Texas at Austin
- Government roles: Assistant Secretary of State (2005-2007), Deputy National Security Advisor (2017-2018)
- Financial sector: Goldman Sachs (2007-2017, 2018-2023)
- Languages: English, Arabic
- Award: Great Immigrants Award (2009)
Questions readers ask
What was her role at Goldman Sachs?
She served as a partner, managing director, and Global Head of Sustainability and Inclusive Growth.
Did she serve in the Trump administration?
Yes, she held the position of Deputy National Security Advisor for Strategy from 2017 to 2018.
Achievements
- Affiliated with Republican National Committee, Goldman Sachs and Executive Office of the President of the United States
- Educated at University of Texas at Austin
