Billionaire Profile
Ivan Glasenberg
Global Rank
#223

Image: Financial Times photos c/o: Dianna Bonner | CC BY 2.0 | via Wikimedia Commons

Ivan Glasenberg

CEO, Mining
SWITZERLAND
Real-Time Net Worth
$13.068B
Estimated based on Mining stock value as of March 6, 2026
-1.6% (24h)
Age
69
Source
Mining
Industry
Metals & Mining
Citizenship
SWITZERLAND

Biography

Ivan Glasenberg is a South African-born business executive, best known for his role as the former CEO of Glencore, one of the world's largest commodity trading and mining companies. Born in Johannesburg in 1957, Glasenberg's career began in the coal department of Marc Rich & Co., later becoming Glencore. He led Glencore from 2002 until his retirement in 2021. His source of wealth stems from his significant stake in Glencore, making him a major player in the metals-mining industry. As of February 2, 2026, his real-time net worth is estimated at $12.9 billion. Glasenberg is a Swiss citizen, residing in Rüschlikon, Switzerland. He is also known for being a former South African race-walking champion.

Fact Checked
Verified by Editorial Team
Live Data
Updated 3/6/2026

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Ivan Glasenberg was born on January 7, 1957, in Johannesburg, South Africa. He came from a Jewish family. His father was an importer and luggage manufacturer, and his mother was South African. Glasenberg excelled in athletics during his youth, becoming a national junior champion in race walking. He studied at the University of the Witwatersrand, earning degrees in Commerce and Accountancy. He later obtained an MBA from the University of Southern California in 1983.

Rise to Success

Glasenberg began his career at Glencore in 1984, starting in the coal department in South Africa. He quickly rose through the ranks, managing Glencore's Hong Kong and Beijing offices. In 1991, he became the head of the coal department. Glasenberg was appointed CEO of Glencore in 2002 and played a key role in the company's growth, including the merger with Xstrata. The merger formed Glencore Xstrata, a major mining and trading powerhouse.

Key Business Strategies

Glasenberg focused on expanding Glencore's operations through strategic acquisitions and by owning and operating its own mines. He was known for his entrepreneurial approach and pushed Glencore to own the entire value chain. His leadership was instrumental in transforming Glencore into a global commodities giant.

Philanthropy

Information on Ivan Glasenberg's specific philanthropic activities and the exact amounts donated is limited in the available search results.

Career Milestones

1984

Joined Glencore

Began working in the coal department.

1991

Head of Coal Department

Became head of Glencore's coal department.

2002

CEO of Glencore

Appointed as the CEO of Glencore.

2011

Glencore IPO

Glencore was listed on the London Stock Exchange and in Hong Kong.

2021

Retirement

Retired from the CEO position at Glencore.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

General

Unknown

Undisclosed

Limited information on specific initiatives.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"You want to be a trader, come be a trader. The door's open."

"Why should I build an asset when I can buy it more cheaply than you can build it?"

Leadership Principles

Entrepreneurial Approach

Encouraging employees to be entrepreneurs and pursue new ideas.

Focus on Opportunities

Creating your own luck by working hard to ensure you don't miss opportunities.

Controversies & Challenges

2011

Tax Criticism

Criticism from some villagers in Rüschlikon about Glencore's alleged business practices after Glasenberg paid significant taxes following Glencore's flotation.