Alexander de Carvalho: Innovator and Leader in GovTech
Alexander de Carvalho is a visionary entrepreneur, investor, and a significant figure in the world of public sector innovation. As the CEO and Co-Founder of PUBLIC, a leading GovTech company, he has made a remarkable mark in the technology space, particularly in transforming public services and governance. His contributions extend beyond entrepreneurship to becoming a Young Global Leader at the World Economic Forum, where he actively shapes the future of governance, innovation, and social impact. This article delves into his life, career, and family, offering a comprehensive view of his achievements.
Early Life and Education
Born on December 9, 1984, in London, Alexander de Carvalho grew up surrounded by a blend of business influence and academic excellence. His mother, Charlene de Carvalho-Heineken, is the majority shareholder of Heineken, one of the world’s largest brewing companies, and his father, Michel de Carvalho, is a British financier and former Olympic athlete. With such an impressive lineage, Alexander’s upbringing naturally inclined him towards leadership and entrepreneurship.
Alexander attended Harvard University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in History. His time at Harvard allowed him to develop critical thinking skills and a deep understanding of history, which would later influence his approach to leadership and business. In addition to academics, he was also a member of the university’s Junior Varsity Soccer Team, showing an early interest in teamwork and discipline.
A Journey Into Entrepreneurship and GovTech
Co-Founder and CEO of PUBLIC
As the CEO and Co-Founder of PUBLIC, Alexander de Carvalho has dedicated over a decade to reimagining the way governments and citizens interact through technology. PUBLIC, originally an accelerator and investor, has now become one of Europe’s leading GovTech firms. The company’s mission is to support the public sector in embracing digital transformation to create better societal outcomes. PUBLIC has supported and launched over 50 startups across Europe, each focused on reshaping public services in fields such as health, welfare, social care, and security.
Under Alexander’s leadership, PUBLIC has grown from strength to strength. His vision for the company is clear – to help governments leverage technology in ways that enhance their ability to serve citizens more effectively. His focus on improving the public sector has earned him recognition as one of the leading figures in the rapidly expanding GovTech space.
Leadership at the World Economic Forum
Beyond his entrepreneurial role, Alexander is also a key influencer on the global stage. In March 2021, he was named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum (WEF). This prestigious title is awarded to individuals under 40 who demonstrate exceptional leadership and a commitment to tackling pressing global issues. As a Young Global Leader, Alexander contributes to discussions on governance, innovation, and the social impact of technology. His insights on the intersection of government and technology are invaluable in shaping the future of public services worldwide.
Other Leadership Roles
In addition to his work with PUBLIC, Alexander holds several key positions in various companies. He is the Executive Chairman of Eva Health Technologies, a company dedicated to advancing digital health solutions. He also serves as Chairman of The GovTech Summit, a major event in the GovTech ecosystem. Furthermore, Alexander has been a Non-Executive Director at Heineken Holding NV since 2013, where his family’s legacy continues to have an impact.
His board positions at The Lagunitas Brewing Co. and Doctify reflect his diverse interests and broad expertise. In each of these roles, he brings a unique combination of strategic vision and hands-on leadership that has earned him widespread recognition in both the business and technology communities.
Alexander de Carvalho: Age and Family Background
Age of Alexander de Carvalho
As of May 2025, Alexander de Carvalho is 40 years old. His career, however, has spanned over two decades, during which he has established himself as a formidable force in the world of technology and governance. His achievements at such a young age underscore his exceptional leadership and vision for the future.
Family and Personal Life
Alexander’s family plays a crucial role in both his personal and professional life. He is the eldest son of Charlene de Carvalho-Heineken, the majority shareholder of Heineken, and Michel de Carvalho, a prominent British financier. This influential background has shaped his understanding of the business world and the importance of legacy in shaping global enterprises.
Alexander has four siblings: Charles, Louisa, Sophie, and Isabel. His family is known for its low-key public presence, although their business success and involvement in various sectors are well known. Alexander’s mother, Charlene, inherited her stake in Heineken after the passing of her father, Freddy Heineken, in 2002. This inheritance has positioned the de Carvalho family at the helm of one of the most well-known companies in the world.
Alexander’s Personal Life and Relationship
In 2012, Alexander became engaged to Countess Stephanie von und zu Eltz, an Austrian medical student and co-founder of the healthtech startup Doctify. The couple’s professional synergy is evident, with both sharing a commitment to innovation and social impact. Alexander and Stephanie have been public about their support for one another’s careers, with Stephanie often expressing her pride in Alexander’s recognition as a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader.
There is currently no public information confirming whether Alexander and Stephanie are married or have children, but their engagement remains a noteworthy aspect of Alexander’s personal life. They are often seen attending high-profile events together, further emphasizing their partnership.
Achievements and Recognition
A Visionary Leader in the GovTech Sector
Alexander de Carvalho’s work in the GovTech sector has garnered significant recognition. As a leader at PUBLIC, he has helped shape the trajectory of the European government technology landscape, ensuring that technology serves as a tool for public sector efficiency and societal improvement. His work has had a lasting impact on how governments approach the digitisation of public services.
His recognition as a Young Global Leader at the World Economic Forum is a testament to his commitment to using technology for social good. His participation in global conversations surrounding innovation and governance has positioned him as a thought leader in the field of technology and public policy.
Featured Among Switzerland’s Richest Young Entrepreneurs
In 2023, Alexander was featured among Switzerland’s 100 richest young individuals by BILANZ magazine. This recognition highlighted his wealth, influence, and success, both as an entrepreneur and as a key player in the tech and business sectors. Despite his success, Alexander remains focused on his mission to improve public services and make a meaningful difference in society.
Conclusion
Alexander de Carvalho’s journey as an entrepreneur, leader, and visionary has been marked by his unwavering commitment to public sector innovation and societal transformation. As the CEO of PUBLIC and a Young Global Leader at the World Economic Forum, he continues to inspire change in the way governments and technology interact. His leadership, family background, and personal achievements make him a unique figure in today’s business and tech landscape, and his future contributions are sure to continue shaping the world of governance and technology.
