San Francisco, CA, USA
Faith Community: Roman Catholic
Karen Pajarillo is a global health and investment professional whose career bridges private enterprise and humanitarian service. With more than two decades of experience spanning public health, finance, and international development, she has led initiatives promoting maternal and child health, women’s empowerment, and equitable access to care across Asia, Africa, and the United States.
In her role with The Riverside Company, a global private equity firm, Ms. Pajarillo has contributed to strategies that align social impact with responsible investment, helping mission-driven organizations scale their reach and sustainability. Previously, she held leadership positions with international NGOs and development agencies, where she designed and managed programs that linked medical innovation with community-based action. Rooted in her Catholic faith, she views compassion, justice, and service as central to both her professional and personal life.
As a member of URI’s Senior Advisory Council, Ms. Pajarillo brings a rare combination of business acumen and humanitarian experience to advance URI’s global mission. Her ability to connect faith-based organizations, social enterprises, and public institutions will strengthen URI’s efforts to create sustainable partnerships for peace and human development.
Through her inclusive leadership and deep commitment to service, she will help URI empower grassroots initiatives that promote health, equity, and compassion across all traditions. She currently serves as a member of the URI Foundation Board.