Helena Hofbauer Balmori is international program director for Civic Engagement and Government. She is also regional director for the foundation's Mexico and Central America office in Mexico City, where she oversees the office's overall strategy based on the premise that governments at all levels must serve the broad public interest and ensure that all people—particularly the most marginalized and underrepresented populations—are treated equally under the law.

Before joining the foundation in 2015, Helena served for eight years as manager and later on director for partnership development and innovation at the International Budget Partnership. In that position she oversaw grant making, capacity development, and technical assistance for more than 60 organizations in 25 countries, among them Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Ecuador, Brazil, South Africa, Kenya, India, Cambodia, and Egypt.

Earlier, Helena was the founding director of Fundar, Centro de Análisis e Investigación (Center for Analysis and Research). Supported by Ford from its inception, the Mexico-based organization uses evidence-based advocacy to tackle complex social challenges such as migration, reproductive justice, human rights, and accountability.

Helena earned her master’s degree in international peace studies from the University of Notre Dame and her bachelor’s degree in international relations from El Colegio de México.