Logo
SubscribeSign In
LeaderPortfolio
Billionaire Profile
Gwendolyn Sontheim Meyer
Global Rank
#783

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Gwendolyn Sontheim Meyer

CEO, Cargill
US
Real-Time Net Worth
$5.1B
As of December 2025
Age
64
Source
Cargill
Industry
food-beverage
Citizenship
US

Biography

Gwendolyn Sontheim Meyer, born in 1961/62, is an American billionaire heiress and equestrian. As the great-great-granddaughter of William Wallace Cargill, the founder of Cargill, she inherited a significant portion of the company's wealth. Her estimated net worth is $5.1 billion, placing her among the wealthiest individuals in the United States. Meyer is actively involved in equestrian sports, particularly show jumping, and has achieved significant success in the field. Her primary source of wealth is her stake in Cargill, the largest privately held company in the U.S., operating in the food and beverage industry. Meyer resides in Rancho Santa Fe, California.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Gwendolyn Sontheim Meyer was born in the United States in 1961/62. She is the great-great-granddaughter of William Wallace Cargill, who founded Cargill in 1865. Her mother was Marion MacMillan Pictet. Meyer was born into a life of privilege and wealth, inheriting a substantial fortune from the Cargill family.

Rise to Success

Meyer's wealth stems primarily from her inheritance of a stake in Cargill, the global food and agricultural giant. While many Cargill heirs have pursued careers in business, Meyer has devoted much of her life to equestrian pursuits and philanthropy. She is an accomplished equestrian, specializing in show jumping, and has won several prestigious competitions.

Key Business Strategies

As an heir to the Cargill fortune, Meyer's involvement in the company's activities and decision-making processes further solidifies her position as a prominent figure in the business world. The Cargill family still owns a significant portion of the company. Meyer controls an estimated 8% stake.

Philanthropy

Meyer is known for her philanthropic efforts, supporting various causes including education, healthcare, and community development. She has contributed to educational institutions and has been committed to supporting the arts. Meyer has donated over $12 million to Democratic-leaning campaigns and organizations.

Career Milestones

2011

Won Prix Credit Suisse

Won the Prix Credit Suisse at the Geneva International Horse Show.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Political

Political Donations

$12.1M+

Donated to national political campaigns and political committees.

Advocacy

Pro-Abortion advocacy groups in Oklahoma

$1M

Donated to pro-abortion advocacy groups in Oklahoma.