Billionaire Profile
Christine Franken & family
Global Rank
#2018

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Christine Franken & family

CEO, Sartorius AG
DE
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.9B
As of December 2025
Age
80
Source
Biopharmaceuticals
Industry
healthcare
Citizenship
DE

Biography

Christine Franken, at 80 years old, is a prominent figure in the biopharmaceuticals industry. Her family's wealth stems from their significant stake in Sartorius AG, a company founded by her great-grandfather. Christine is one of the three daughters of Horst Sartorius, who passed on a 50% stake in the company in 1998. Sartorius AG, which went public in 1990, manufactures pharmaceutical and laboratory equipment. With approximately 10,600 employees and annual revenue exceeding $2.5 billion, the Franken family's wealth is estimated at $1.9 billion.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Christine Franken's story is intertwined with the history of Sartorius AG, a biopharmaceutical firm. Her great-grandfather, Florenz Sartorius, laid the foundation for the company in 1870. The company initially focused on manufacturing analytical balances for laboratory use. Christine's family's connection to the company solidified when her father, Horst Sartorius, inherited a significant stake.

Rise to Success

Horst Sartorius's passing in 1998 marked a pivotal moment, with a 50% stake in Sartorius AG being divided among his three daughters, including Christine. Sartorius AG's initial public offering in 1990 marked a new phase of growth. Today, the company is a major player in the biopharmaceutical sector. The company's expansion has contributed to the Franken family's considerable net worth.

Key Business Strategies

Sartorius AG's success is rooted in its strategic focus on the biopharmaceutical and laboratory equipment markets. The company's ongoing innovation and adaptation to industry trends have been key drivers of its financial performance. The company's global presence, with over 10,600 employees, indicates a well-executed strategy for capturing market share. The company has expanded its operations and market reach over the years. The financial performance of Sartorius AG has directly influenced the Franken family's wealth.

Philanthropy

There is no readily available information regarding Christine Franken's specific philanthropic endeavors.

Career Milestones

1998

Inheritance of Sartorius AG stake

Christine Franken, along with her sisters, inherited a stake in Sartorius AG after her father's death, solidifying her family's connection to the biopharmaceutical company.