Johann Rupert facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Johann Rupert
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| Born | 1 June 1950 Stellenbosch, Cape Province, Union of South Africa
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| Alma mater | Stellenbosch University |
| Occupation | Founder and Chairman of Compagnie Financiere Richemont SA |
| Known for | Luxury goods |
| Spouse(s) | Gaynor Rupert |
| Children | 3 |
| Parent(s) | Anton and Huberte Rupert |
Johann Peter Rupert (born 1 June 1950) is a very successful South African businessman. He is the oldest son of famous business leader Anton Rupert. Johann Rupert is the chairman of two big companies: Richemont, which sells luxury goods, and Remgro, based in South Africa.
Since 2010, he has also been the CEO of Compagnie Financiere Richemont. Johann Rupert and his family are known as one of the wealthiest families in South Africa.
About Johann Rupert
Johann Rupert grew up in Stellenbosch, a town in South Africa. He went to Paul Roos Gymnasium and then to the University of Stellenbosch. There, he studied economics and company law.
He decided to leave university early to start his business career. Later, in 2004, the university gave him an honorary degree in Economics. In 2008, he received another honorary degree from Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University.
People often describe Rupert as someone who likes his privacy. He doesn't give many interviews and prefers to stay out of the public eye. His nickname is "Rupert the Bear." He believes in the idea of a universal basic income, which is a regular payment given to everyone.
His Business Journey
Johann Rupert started his business training in New York City. He worked for Chase Manhattan for two years. Then he worked for Lazard Freres for three years.
In 1979, he came back to South Africa. He started his own company called Rand Merchant Bank and was its CEO.
- 1984: He combined his bank with another company to create RMB Holdings.
- 1988: He founded Compagnie Financiere Richemont. This company focuses on luxury items. He was also named "Businessman of the Year" by the Sunday Times.
- 1989: He became the Vice Chairman of his father's company, the Rembrandt Group.
- 1990: He was named business leader of the year by a local newspaper. He also created Vendôme Luxury Group SA, a part of Richemont.
- 1991: He became Chairman of Rembrandt Group Limited. The World Economic Forum named him one of 200 "Global Leaders of Tomorrow."
- 2000: He reorganized the Rembrandt Group into two new companies: Remgro Limited and VenFin Limited. He also became Chairman and Chief Executive of Compagnie Financière Richemont SA.
- 2009: He was given a special award, "Officier" of the French "Ordre National de la Légion d’Honneur." This is a high honor from France.
- 2009: He was appointed Chancellor of Stellenbosch University.
Other Interests and Hobbies
Johann Rupert used to play cricket. In 1990, he started the Laureus Sport for Good Foundation. This foundation uses sports to help solve social problems around the world. It especially helps children who are less fortunate.
He also helped create the Sports Science Institute. This was with his friends Morne du Plessis and Tim Noakes.
Rupert developed the Leopard Creek Golf Club in South Africa. It is one of the top golf courses in the country. He also plays in charity golf tournaments to help raise money for children's causes. He leads the South African PGA Tour and the South African Golf Development Board. In 2007, he joined the South African Sports Hall of Fame.
In 2008, his company Remgro bought a part of the English rugby club Saracens. They won many championships. In 2018, Rupert sold his share in the club.
After his younger brother Anthonij passed away in 2001, Johann Rupert took over the L'Ormarins wine estate. He started a project to improve the farm in memory of his brother.
Johann Rupert is also very dedicated to protecting nature. He has helped conserve a large area of land in South Africa. He is also the Chairman of the Peace Parks Foundation. This foundation works to create large peace parks across different countries.
See also
In Spanish: Johann Rupert para niños
- List of South African billionaires by net worth
