Billionaire Profile
Frederik Paulsen
Global Rank
#569

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Frederik Paulsen

CEO, Ferring Pharmaceuticals
SE
Real-Time Net Worth
$6.8B
As of December 2025
Age
75
Source
Health care
Industry
healthcare
Citizenship
SE

Biography

Frederik Paulsen, a Swedish billionaire, is the non-executive chairman of Ferring Pharmaceuticals, a global leader in biopharmaceuticals. Born in 1950, Paulsen inherited the company founded by his father and transformed it into a worldwide enterprise with a focus on reproductive health, gastroenterology, and urology. His net worth is estimated at $6.8 billion, reflecting his success in healthcare. Paulsen is also known for his adventurous spirit and philanthropic endeavors, including significant contributions to environmental conservation, cultural preservation, and medical research.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life and Education

Frederik Paulsen was born on October 30, 1950, in Stockholm, Sweden. His father, Frederik Paulsen Sr., founded Ferring Pharmaceuticals in 1950. Paulsen attended school in Sweden before studying chemistry at the Christian Albrecht University in Kiel, Germany, and business administration at Lund University in Sweden. He later earned a doctoral degree in Demography from the École des Hautes Études en Sciences Sociales in Paris, France.

Rise to Success

Paulsen joined Ferring Pharmaceuticals in 1976 and held several senior executive positions. In 1983, he became the Managing Director of Ferring AB, Sweden. Under his leadership, Ferring expanded its global presence, becoming a significant player in the pharmaceutical industry, especially in reproductive medicine. Paulsen became the non-executive chairman of Ferring Pharmaceuticals Group in 2003.

Key Business Strategies

Paulsen focused on peptide drugs and expanded Ferring's operations to over 50 countries, marketing its products in over 100 countries. His focus on innovation and research & development has been a key strategy for Ferring's growth, with approximately 15% of the company's global revenue invested in R&D. Ferring has built a strong presence in reproductive medicine, urology, gastroenterology, and women's health.

Philanthropy

Paulsen is involved in various philanthropic activities, including environmental conservation and cultural preservation. He has supported the South Georgia Heritage Trust and the Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan. Furthermore, he founded fertility clinics in Russia to address demographic challenges and underwrites the International Council meetings for the Salk Institute.

Career Milestones

1976

Joined Ferring Pharmaceuticals

Began his career at Ferring, a company founded by his father.

1983

Managing Director of Ferring AB, Sweden

Took on the role of Managing Director, playing a key role in expanding the company.

2003

Non-Executive Chairman of Ferring Pharmaceuticals Group

Became the non-executive chairman, continuing to guide the company's strategic direction.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Environmental Conservation

South Georgia Heritage Trust

Undisclosed

Primary financial supporter of the South Georgia Heritage Trust, which aims to preserve the natural and historical heritage of the South Atlantic islands.

Cultural Preservation

Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan

Undisclosed

Enabled the opening of the Royal Textile Academy of Bhutan, providing training and support.

Healthcare

Fertility Clinics in Russia

Undisclosed

Founded fertility clinics to address population decline.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"“I worked my tail off for 30 years. I think I've done my time.”"

Leadership Principles

Commitment to Innovation

Driving research and development in the pharmaceutical sector.

Global Expansion

Growing the company's presence in over 50 countries.

Controversies & Challenges

2008

Ties to Russia

Frederik Paulsen was awarded the Order of Friendship by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Some questioned if this was a bribe in return for fiscal arrangements for Frederik Paulsen and his company, Ferring Pharmaceuticals.