Larry Ellison

Larry Ellison, the entrepreneur and businessman, is best known as the co-founder of the software company Oracle Corporation. He served as CEO from 1977 to 2014 and has since taken up the roles of executive chairman and CTO. Ellison's leadership at Oracle has consistently placed him among the wealthiest individuals worldwide, with an estimated net worth of US$130 billion as of March 2024. His real estate portfolio is also noteworthy, as he owns 98% of Lānaʻi, the sixth-largest island in the Hawaiian Islands.

Ellison's business acumen is evident in his handling of Oracle's growth and development. He founded Software Development Laboratories, the precursor to Oracle, in 1977 with just $2,000. Despite facing financial losses that led to a workforce reduction in 1990, Oracle flourished under his guidance to become a leader in the industry. His influence extends beyond Oracle; he was a director of Apple Computer from 1997 to 2002 and has been a driving force behind numerous acquisitions and business decisions.

Ellison's personal accomplishments reflect his diverse interests and commitments. He is a licensed pilot, owns several luxury properties, and has made substantial philanthropic donations, including a $100 million contribution to his own charitable foundation. His active participation in yachting competitions and ownership of the Indian Wells Tennis Garden tennis facility highlight his sporting passions. Ellison's ability to balance these pursuits while maintaining a prominent role in Oracle's operations demonstrates his agility and versatility as a leader.