Who is Philip Vaughn? Melinda French Gates’ New Partner Makes Red Carpet Debut at The Albies 2025

Philanthropist Melinda French Gates, 61, made a glamorous appearance at The Albies 2025 in London on October 3, accompanied by her new partner, Philip Vaughn. The elegant event was hosted by George and Amal Clooney’s Foundation for Justice at the Natural History Museum, celebrating global changemakers who champion human rights and equality.

This marked the first time Melinda and Philip appeared together publicly. French Gates was one of the honorees at the ceremony, recognized for her long-term work advancing women’s health, education, and gender equality across the world.

Who Is Philip Vaughn?

Philip Vaughn, 48, is a Seattle-based businessman and entrepreneur known as the founder and chairman of Tavour, a craft beer delivery company. His LinkedIn profile shows that he previously worked at Microsoft from 1999 to 2008, where he built his background in technology and business management.

Vaughn’s professional history interestingly connects him to Melinda French Gates, who also worked at Microsoft before marrying Bill Gates. Their shared experience in tech and innovation has reportedly been one of their strongest common interests.

Melinda French Gates Honored for Women Empowerment

At The Albies 2025, Melinda French Gates received special recognition for her 25 years of work in philanthropy. After stepping down from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, she launched Pivotal, an organization designed to advance women’s power and influence in the U.S. and globally.

The Clooney Foundation for Justice described her as a “visionary leader who continues to shape progress for gender equality and social change.”

A Relationship That Has Been Growing Since 2024

French Gates and Vaughn first sparked romance rumors in 2024, when they were spotted holding hands in New York City. Earlier this year, during an interview promoting her book The Next Day, Melinda confirmed that she was in a “pretty great” relationship, though she didn’t name her partner at the time.

Their appearance together at The Albies now makes it official — the couple is enjoying a happy and supportive relationship. This comes four years after Melinda’s divorce from Bill Gates, finalized in 2021.

The Albies 2025: A Night of Justice and Style

The evening was full of notable guests and inspiring speeches. George and Amal Clooney hosted the event in honor of people making bold contributions to justice and equality worldwide.

Amal Clooney turned heads in a chocolate brown Atelier Versace gown, while George Clooney looked dapper in a black tuxedo. Among the night’s honorees was Darren Walker, president of the Ford Foundation, who received the Lifetime Achievement in Pursuit of Justice Award for his remarkable humanitarian work.