Early Life
Bertil Hult was born in Stockholm, Sweden, in February 1941. He experienced challenges with dyslexia during his early education, which significantly influenced his approach to learning. He left school after junior high. These early experiences shaped his belief in the effectiveness of immersive learning methods.
Rise to Success
Hult's career took off when he founded EF Education First in 1965. He launched the company with the idea of language study and travel abroad programs. EF initially focused on sending Swedish high school students to England. Hult expanded the business, opening language schools and diversifying into educational offerings, academic programs, and cultural exchanges. EF expanded globally, now operating in 111 countries. Hult served as CEO until 2002 and as chairman until 2008.
Key Business Strategies
Hult's success can be attributed to several key strategies. First, he emphasized experiential learning, recognizing the importance of immersing students in new cultures and languages. Second, EF expanded through franchise locations initially, before buying back licenses. This allowed for rapid, cost-effective expansion. Hult also focused on emerging markets, recognizing the growing demand for English-language education. EF has also focused on digital innovation, including online language learning platforms.
Philanthropy
Apart from EF, Hult has been involved in charities fighting drug abuse and promoting dyslexia education. He founded the Mentor Foundation in 1993. Hult also supports the Bertil Hult Prize, a student competition aimed at fostering innovation and social entrepreneurship.
