One of the world’s largest independent grant-makers, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is opening a new European office in London to expand its partnerships with European NGOs, foundations and governments. Joe Cerrell, current director of global health policy and advocacy, will head the office from 1 January 2010.

"Expanding our work in Europe is an important priority for the foundation, and we’re very pleased that Joe will be leading this effort," said Bill Gates, co-chair of the Gates Foundation.

Cerrell will oversee the Gates Foundation's policy, advocacy, and communications activities in Europe. His team, of up to 10 staff initially, will expand the foundation’s partnerships with European non-governmental organisations, foundations, governments, multilateral organisations, and other groups. It will also manage a portfolio of policy and advocacy grants.

Jeff Raikes, chief executive of the Gates Foundation, said, "Our European partners are some of the most innovative and bold influencers working to alleviate extreme poverty and disease in the developing world."

The office will also liaise with Gates Foundation grantees throughout Europe. The foundation funds European groups for a wide range of research, programme, and advocacy projects, primarily related to global health and development.