Billionaire Profile
Clayton Zekelman
Global Rank
#1688

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Clayton Zekelman

CEO, Zekelman Industries
CA
Real-Time Net Worth
$2.64B
As of December 2025
Age
55
Source
Steel
Industry
manufacturing
Citizenship
CA

Biography

Clayton Zekelman, a Canadian citizen, is a prominent figure in the steel manufacturing industry, with a net worth of $2.64 billion as of May 2024. As a key shareholder in Zekelman Industries, he has played a crucial role in the company's success. His career in steel manufacturing reflects a family legacy that began in 1877. Beyond his business achievements, Clayton Zekelman is actively involved in philanthropy, focusing on community development and technological advancement.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Family Legacy

Clayton Zekelman's involvement in Zekelman Industries is rooted in a long-standing family legacy in steel manufacturing. His father, Harry Zekelman, founded Atlas Tube in 1984. Clayton, along with his brothers, Barry and Alan, took ownership of Atlas Tube in 1986. The family's commitment has been instrumental in maintaining the company's reputation for quality and innovation.

Rise to Success

Under the Zekelman family's leadership, Zekelman Industries has expanded its operations and solidified its position in the market. Clayton, along with his brothers, owns 100% of Zekelman Industries, one of North America's largest steel pipe and tube makers with $4.2 billion in revenues. The family sold the company to the Carlyle Group in 2006 but bought it back in 2011.

Key Business Strategies

Zekelman Industries is the largest independent steel pipe and tube manufacturer in North America. The company produces approximately 2.5 million tons of steel annually from 17 manufacturing facilities. In addition to the steel industry, Clayton has also been involved in the telecommunications sector as the founder of MNSi Telecom and has acquired Nexicom.

Philanthropy

Clayton Zekelman is actively involved in philanthropy, particularly in initiatives that foster community development and technological advancement. His charitable efforts often focus on improving access to technology and supporting educational programs that prepare youth for the challenges of the digital age. The Zekelman family and Zekelman Industries have made significant donations to the Holocaust Memorial Center, with their total funding reaching $25 million as of December 2021.

Career Milestones

1986

Assumed Ownership of Atlas Tube

Along with his brothers, Barry and Alan Zekelman, assumed ownership of Atlas Tube.

2011

Bought back Zekelman Industries

The Zekelman family purchased back the company from Carlyle Group.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education and Memorial

Holocaust Memorial Center

$25M

Total funding to the Holocaust Memorial Center from the Zekelman family and Zekelman Industries.

Community Development

Community Development

Unknown

Supports initiatives focusing on improving access to technology and supporting educational programs.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

""We've always been impressed by the positive and lasting impact the Holocaust Memorial Center has had on millions of lives, it's truly inspiring." - Barry Zekelman"

Leadership Principles

Innovation

Commitment to innovation and quality in both the steel and telecommunications industries.

Community Development

Actively involved in initiatives that foster community development.