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ABOUT WINSTON
Winston Bao Lord is a dynamic leader known for uniting diverse stakeholders and amplifying bold ideas, propelling them to transformative impact. With over three decades of experience in strategic planning, coalition-building, and cross-cultural collaboration, Winston delivers groundbreaking results across industries and communities.
​As Executive Director of the Washington Baseball Club, Winston architected the return of Major League Baseball to Washington, D.C., after a 34-year hiatus. By mobilizing business leaders, policymakers, and community members through an inclusive and stakeholder-focused strategy, he launched a unifying cultural and economic initiative that revitalized the city and fostered collective pride.
In the hospitality industry, Winston co-founded Venga, acquired by Booking Holdings (NASDAQ: BKNG), and served as Chief Evangelist at OpenTable, where he empowered entrepreneurs with innovative, data-driven solutions. His work amplified the voices of restaurateurs, fostered community engagement, and accelerated business growth.
Currently, Winston leads a variety of high-impact initiatives, including the revitalization of Washington, D.C.’s Chinatown, where he balances the preservation of cultural heritage with economic modernization. His commitment to inclusivity and sustainability drives his broader vision of creating thriving, interconnected communities.
Recognized by The Washington Post as “one of the most well-connected young people,” Winston has built an extraordinary network through his work spanning sports & entertainment, politics, private equity, philanthropy, and hospitality. From boardrooms to ballparks, campaign war rooms to chef’s tables, he has forged deep relationships with leaders across industries, making his Rolodex a decisive factor in driving successful ventures.
His work is featured in Insights: Reflections from 101 of Yale’s Most Successful Entrepreneurs, and he has been profiled in People Magazine, The New York Times, Washington Post Magazine, and Campaigns & Elections.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Winston is deeply committed to fostering social impact and mentoring future leaders. He serves on the Vital Voices Solidarity Council and is a Founding Board Member of the Novella Center for Entrepreneurship. He has served on the boards of numerous nonprofit organizations, including D.C. Central Kitchen, The Washington Ballet, Urban Alliance, and E.L. Haynes Public Charter School. Additionally, he shares his expertise with emerging leaders through the Aspen Institute Food Leaders Fellowship and Conscious Venture Lab.
Winston is married to Stephanie, VP of Strategic Partnerships at Vital Voices and founding Executive Director of the Batonga Foundation. They are parents to Levi, Winston, Xavion, Tyson, and Alvin (his latest coalition-building project).
