Billionaire Profile
Donald Mackenzie
Global Rank
#3120

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Donald Mackenzie

CEO, Private equity
UNITED KINGDOM
Real-Time Net Worth
$1.183B
Estimated based on Private equity stock value as of April 21, 2026
-1.34% (24h)
Age
69
Source
Private equity
Industry
Finance & Investments
Citizenship
UNITED KINGDOM

Biography

Donald Mackenzie is a co-founder and honorary co-chair of CVC Capital Partners, a leading global private equity firm. His wealth stems from his involvement in private equity, specifically his founding role in CVC. Over his career, Mackenzie has been instrumental in building CVC into a major player in the industry. He stepped back from an active role in the company in February 2024, remaining on the board in a non-executive capacity. As of March 2026, he is estimated to have a net worth of $1.1 billion.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 4/21/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Career

Donald Mackenzie's career began with his founding of CVC Capital Partners in 1993, after spinning the firm out of Citicorp Venture Capital. Before this, he worked at 3i Plc. His background includes being a Chartered Accountant and holding an LLB degree from the University of Dundee, Scotland.

Rise to Success

Mackenzie, along with his co-founders, built CVC into a global private equity powerhouse. CVC invests in a range of sectors and has a global presence, with offices in the Americas, Europe, and Asia. The firm went public on the Amsterdam stock exchange in 2024. CVC's investments include well-known companies such as Petco and Breitling. Mackenzie's leadership was critical in CVC's success, including the buyout of Formula One in 2006, which was later sold.

Key Business Strategies

CVC's strategy focuses on investing in established businesses with the potential for growth. The firm aims to increase the value of its portfolio companies before exiting investments. CVC has raised significant funds over the years, including a record-breaking fund in 2023.

Philanthropy

Donald Mackenzie is involved in philanthropy through the CVC Foundation. CVC Funds and the CVC Foundation have provided founding funding to Podium Analytics, an NGO and registered charity dedicated to reducing sports injuries.

Career Milestones

1988

Joined CVC

Began working at CVC Capital Partners.

1993

Co-founded CVC Capital Partners

Spun out CVC from Citicorp Venture Capital.

2006

Led Formula One Buyout

Led the buyout of Formula One racing series.

2016

Sold Formula One

CVC sold Formula One to Liberty Media.

2024

Stepped Back from Active Role

Stepped back from an active role as co-chair at CVC.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Sports

Podium Analytics

Funding from CVC Funds and CVC Foundation

Supports the NGO committed to reducing the incidence and impact of injury in sports.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"When we founded CVC in the early 90s, it was our ambition to create a multi-generational business that would continue to flourish long after the founders had gone. I believe we have achieved that. The business is in very good shape and in good hands."

Leadership Principles

Long-term Vision

Focused on building a business that would endure beyond the founders' involvement.

Strategic Investment

Prioritized investments in established businesses with potential for growth.

Discipline in Investment

Maintained a disciplined approach to investment opportunities.