Sir Richard Branson

The face, spirit, and entrepreneurial mastermind behind Virgin, one of the world’s most dynamic brands, Richard Branson is known for his unique vision, competitive style, and showy nature – not only in business but in all aspects of life.

A global entrepreneur by every definition of the term, Branson, who has grown Virgin Group, Ltd., to include over 360 companies, is credited as the world’s greatest brand-building visionary in recent history. From Virgin Records, which he sold for an astonishing $1 billion, to Virgin Mobile USA, the fastest growing company in history to reach $1 billion in revenue, the business tycoon has extensively developed his brand in all areas of entertainment, lifestyle, and travel.

Crediting “fun” as his guiding life principle, Branson is known for his fanatical record-breaking attempts, including such widely reported stunts as being the first to fly a hot air balloon across the Atlantic. Applying this same zeal to business ventures, he has proven the validity of his mantra that one can “have fun while making a fortune,” having become revered for his unconventional management style and brilliant ability to motivate employees.

But Branson has also made it part of his personal mission to support global causes. Along with the help of Nelson Mandela, Branson started The Elders, a group of eminent global leaders that come together to "promote peace building, help address major issues of human suffering and promote the shared interests of humanity." He is also the founder of the Carbon War Room, which works to increase the effectiveness of climate change efforts that are already underway.

A man who stops at no limits – and someone who was once told by a British school headmaster that he would either “go to prison or become a millionaire” – Branson has created one of the most recognized and trusted brands across the globe. With his signature wit and down-to-earth attitude, he candidly shares the real-life experiences and inspiring vision that have brought him such unyielding success.