Barbara Donaldson

Barbara Donaldson is Senior Vice President of Global Workplace Resources at Synopsys, a global leader in electronic design automation (EDA). Barbara joined Synopsys in 1995 and has held various positions of progressive responsibility within the Real Estate and Facilities group. In her current role, Barbara manages a worldwide team with responsibility for more than 120 sites in 30 countries.

In addition to managing the complexity of an operating budget of more than ~$200M, Barbara’s primary focus at Synopsys is to enhance the company’s competitive advantage by providing an exceptional work environment.  She has incredible knowledge with regard to mergers/acquisition integration, portfolio management and vendor partnerships.  Under her leadership, Synopsys achieved EB (Existing Building) LEED Gold for several corporate buildings, Energy Star for the headquarter campus, and LEED status for key sites across the globe.   For her commitment to the environment and driving sustainability initiatives, she was awarded the Outstanding Corporate Executive of 2020 by Sustainable Roundtable.  

Barbara led an initiative to develop a long-term planning strategy, forecasting headcount and related space needs, by partnering with infrastructure teams and leaders of the lines of business.  Her ability to take a long-term view and bring others along on the journey provides opportunity to create a competitive and productive environment.  As a forward-looking thinker, and an effective change agent, she is now leading an initiative to reimagine the workplace and workforce needs of the future.

In 2010, Barbara proudly represented Synopsys as a Silicon Valley YWCA TWIN (Tribute to Women) award recipient.  This prestigious award recognizes women who exemplify excellence in executive level positions.   Barbara also serves on the Board of Upward – an organization focused on uniting professional women and accelerating relationships and development.

Barbara is an active member of CoreNet, having served in several roles in the Northern California Chapter, including President, Executive Vice President, Programs Co-Chair, and Co-Chair of the Community Reinvestment Committee.   In 2012 she was awarded the CoreNet Real Estate Executive of the Year award for the Northern California Chapter, and served on the Board of CoreNet Global as Governance Chair.  Through CoreNet Global, she has achieved a Masters of Corporate Real Estate (MCR) designation, and has her Certified Facility Management (CFM) with IFMA.

Barbara holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Organizational Development from the University of San Francisco, and an MBA with U.C. Berkeley and Columbia University. Prior to joining Synopsys, Barbara held management positions at other Bay Area firms including ADP and Micro Focus. 

EIN #46-3806904
Based in Saratoga, CA
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