Gerard Wertheimer is a French businessman who owns and controls the House of Chanel along with his brother, Alain, and he has an estimated net worth of $11.6 billion as of January 2016, according to Bloomberg.
Background
Born in a Jewish family, Gerard is the son of Eliane Fischer and Jacques Wertheimer. He lived a lavish life from an early age. But at the same time, he showed great entrepreneurship and leadership skills in the childhood, and using those, he became one of the most notable billionaires of the country.
Career
Wertheimer and his brother, Alain inherited Chanel after their father, Jacques passed away in 1986
Along with his brother Alain, he is the owner of a number of vineyards in France, including Rauzan-Ségla of Margaux and Canon of Saint-Emilion. He is an enthusiastic equestrian too, and inherited a thoroughbred horse racing stable in the US, called as the La Presle Farm. The House of Chanel co-owned by Gerard is famous for No. 5 de Chanel perfume, the Chanel Suit and the ‘Little Black Dress’. He has brought a revolution in the world of fashion, especially for females. His No. 5 perfume has earned immense commercial, cultural and financial success, which has made Chanel a known name among brand lovers. In addition to perfumes and clothes, Chanel is also renowned for its line of makeup products, skincare products, watches, fine jewelry and accessories.
Achievements
Wertheimer and his brother, Alain reportedly donated to various charities and organizations that support conservationist and social causes. Recipients include, the Game Conservancy Trust, Action Innocence and an unspecified orphanage in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, managed by Gerard's wife, Valerie; donation amounts are undisclosed, but contributions are reportedly made in cash. In addition, donated to La Fondacion Fas, a Geneva, Switzerland-based non-profit organization committed to responding as quickly as possible to anyone suffering from alcoholism. Wertheimer's brother, Alain serves as President of the Pierre J Wertheimer Foundation, a New York-based non-profit private foundation named after Wertheimer's late grandfather, but it is unclear if he participates in the activities of the organization.
Views
Wertheimer is reported to be very private about his personal life, there are several versions of his date of birth, some media sources indicate that he was born in 1950, while others state that he was born in November or January 1951.
Wertheimer is reportedly known to have an "affable" personality.
Personality
Born in a rich family, Gerard is known to lead a lavish life, and is the owner of properties and assets worth millions. He talks to media openly, and is involved in a number of charitable activities too.
Interests
skiing, hunting, aviation, fashion
Artists
Picasso, Matisse, Rousseau
Music & Bands
classical music
Connections
He is married to Valerie, and has two children. His wife is serving as the president at Action Innocence. It is a group dedicated to fighting against Internet pornography. He, along with his wife, is also involved in activities related to opposing child pornography.
Father:
Jacques Wertheimer
Acquired all the shares of Chanel in 1971 and served as Chairman until 1974; reportedly passed away in 1996 at the age of 86.
Mother:
Eliane Fischer
Married with Jacques Wertheimer in 1947; the couples had two sons, divorced in 1952.
Spouse:
Valerie Wertheimer
Former nurse; serves as President of Action Innocence, a Geneva, Switzerland-based non-profit organization that reportedly fights against child pornography on the internet. The couple reportedly has two children.
nephew:
Nathaniel Wertheimer
Appears to be Alain's son; reportedly graduated from Harvard University.
sister-in-law:
Brigitte Wertheimer
Married to Wertheimer's brother, Alain; the couple has two children, resides with her husband in New York.
Born in 1948; serves as a Co-Owner and Chairman of Chanel since 1974, reportedly resides in New York.
Grandfather:
Pierre Wertheimer
Founded Parfum Chanel with Gabrielle (Coco) Chanel in 1924 and served as a Partner with a 70% stake, subsequently in 1965, he gained a 90% stake in the company. Reportedly passed away in 1965.
References
Gerard Wertheimer Net Worth - TheRichest
Gerard Wertheimer is a French businessman who owns and controls the House of Chanel along with his brother, Alain, and he has an estimated net worth of...