Henry Roberts Kravis, a towering figure in private equity and leveraged buyouts, has profoundly influenced the finance world. Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and co-founding KKR & Co. Inc., Kravis's story is one of ambition, innovation, and extraordinary financial success. This article explores his life, career milestones, personal life, and major achievements.
Quick Information
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Henry Roberts Kravis |
| Popular As | Henry Kravis |
| Occupations | Businessman, Philanthropist |
| Age (as of 2024) | 80 years |
| Date of Birth | January 6, 1944 |
| Birthplace | Tulsa, Oklahoma |
| Nationality | American |
| Height | 5 feet 9 inches |
| net worth (2025) | $8 billion |
| Spouse | Marie-Josée Drouin |
| Children | 3 |
Early Life
Henry Kravis's formative years in Tulsa, Oklahoma, set the stage for his future achievements. His upbringing and education were instrumental in shaping his finance career.
Childhood and Family Background
Born on January 6, 1944, to Raymond F. Kravis, an oil engineer and businessman, and Bessie Kravis, a homemaker, Henry grew up in a business-oriented environment that nurtured his interest in finance.
Education
Kravis attended Eaglebrook School and Loomis Chaffee School, followed by Claremont McKenna College, where he earned a degree in Economics in 1967. He further honed his skills with an MBA from Columbia Business School in 1969, setting a strong foundation for his career.
Career Highlights
Henry Kravis's career features significant milestones that have left an indelible mark on the private equity industry.
Early Career at Bear Stearns
Kravis began his career at Bear Stearns in 1969, working with his cousin George R. Roberts and mentor Jerome Kohlberg, Jr. This experience sparked his interest in leveraged buyouts (LBOs).
Founding of KKR & Co. Inc.
In 1976, Kravis, alongside Roberts and Kohlberg, founded Kohlberg Kravis Roberts & Co. (KKR), a firm that would transform the private equity sector with its innovative business model of acquiring companies through significant debt levels.
The RJR Nabisco Buyout
The 1988 acquisition of RJR Nabisco for $31.4 billion was a landmark LBO, the largest of its time, catapulting KKR to prominence. This high-profile takeover was famously depicted in the book and film "Barbarians at the Gate."
Expansion and Diversification
Under Kravis's leadership, KKR expanded into various industries, making notable investments in companies like Hospital Corporation of America (HCA), MGM, and Warner Bros. Discovery, further establishing its dominance.
Personal Life
Kravis's personal life reflects his multifaceted personality, encompassing family, philanthropy, and hobbies.
Marriages and Family
Kravis's first marriage was to Helene Diane Shulman, with whom he had three children. He is currently married to Marie-Josée Drouin, an economist and art world figure, and they reside in New York City, Palm Beach, and Paris.
Philanthropic Contributions
Kravis has made significant donations to education, healthcare, and culture. In 2006, he founded the Henry R. Kravis Prize in Nonprofit Leadership, supporting outstanding nonprofit leaders.
Interests and Hobbies
An avid art collector, Kravis also supports major art institutions like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art.
Major Achievements
Kravis's career is marked by pioneering leveraged buyouts, establishing KKR as a global leader, and impactful philanthropy.
Conclusion
From his roots in Tulsa to leading a global financial empire, Henry Kravis has crafted a legacy of innovation and success in private equity. His strategic acumen and philanthropic efforts continue to shape industries and society, inspiring future leaders in finance and beyond.
FAQ Section
Who is Henry Kravis?
Henry Kravis is a prominent businessman and philanthropist, known for co-founding KKR & Co. Inc. and pioneering leveraged buyouts.
What is Henry Kravis's net worth?
As of 2024, his estimated net worth is around $8 billion.
What was the RJR Nabisco buyout?
The RJR Nabisco buyout in 1988, worth $31.4 billion, was the largest LBO at the time, spearheaded by KKR.
What philanthropic contributions has Henry Kravis made?
Kravis has donated extensively to educational, healthcare, and cultural organizations, including creating the Henry R. Kravis Prize in Nonprofit Leadership.
Where does Henry Kravis live?
He resides in New York City, Palm Beach, Florida, and Paris with his wife, Marie-Josée Drouin.
Henry Kravis's journey showcases the power of vision, leadership, and commitment to societal betterment, making him a lasting figure in global finance.
