Billionaire Profile
Gaye Farncombe
Global Rank
#580

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Gaye Farncombe

CEO, Thomson Reuters
CA
Real-Time Net Worth
$9.3B
As of December 2025
Age
0
Source
Thomson Reuters
Industry
media-entertainment
Citizenship
CA

Biography

Gaye Farncombe is a Canadian businesswoman and one of the heirs to the Thomson family fortune, estimated to be worth billions. As a granddaughter of Roy Thomson, founder of Thomson Reuters, she holds a significant stake in Woodbridge, the family's investment company. Her career involves strategic contributions to Woodbridge, focusing on media and technology investments. Farncombe is also actively involved in philanthropy, supporting initiatives in education, healthcare, and the arts.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Gaye Farncombe was born in 1957. She is the granddaughter of Roy Thomson, a prominent media mogul who founded the Thomson Corporation, later known as Thomson Reuters.

Rise to Success

Farncombe's wealth stems from her inheritance and her role in managing the family's investments through Woodbridge. She holds an estimated 11% stake in Woodbridge. Woodbridge manages the family's assets, including a significant share in Thomson Reuters.

Key Business Strategies

Farncombe is involved in strategic decision-making at Woodbridge, particularly concerning investments in media and technology. She has contributed to the expansion of the Thomson family's interests beyond traditional media into digital and technological realms. Farncombe has also been instrumental in integrating environmentally conscious practices into the family's business operations.

Philanthropy

Gaye Farncombe is committed to philanthropy, with a focus on education and the arts. She views philanthropy as a core component of her life, aiming to create a positive social impact.

Career Milestones

1992

Co-owner of Murron's Cabinetree

Opened a high-end cottage furniture and decorative accessory store in Oakville, Canada with her husband, Murray, and business partner, Ron Southwick.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Healthcare

Campbell Centre for Addiction and Mental Health

$30M

Donation to establish the Campbell Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in downtown Toronto.

Healthcare

Campbell Family Institute for Breast Cancer Research

$30M

Donation to fund the Campbell Family Institute for Breast Cancer Research at Princess Margaret Hospital.

Healthcare

Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute

$37.5M

Donation to fund the Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute, also at Princess Margaret Hospital.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

""This, to me and my family, seems to be an issue that has flown under the radar,” [9]."

Leadership Principles

Respect for Legacy

Maintaining the Thomson family's traditions.

Innovation

Adopting a progressive approach to business management, championing the continuous evolution of business practices.