Billionaire Profile

Global Rank

#42

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Jacqueline Mars

CEO, Mars, Incorporated

Real-Time Net Worth

$41.6B

As of December 2025

Age

Source

Candy, pet food

Industry

food-beverage

Citizenship

Biography

Jacqueline Mars is an American heiress and investor, known for her significant stake in Mars, Incorporated, a global leader in the confectionery, pet food, and packaged goods industries. Born on October 10, 1939, she is the daughter of Forrest Mars Sr. and granddaughter of Frank C. Mars, the founder of Mars, Inc. Her career at the company spanned nearly two decades, where she held leadership positions, including Food Product Group President. Her current net worth is estimated at $41.6 billion, reflecting her co-ownership of Mars, Inc. and other assets. Mars is also recognized for her philanthropy and commitment to various causes, especially in the arts, education, and conservation, showcasing her influence and commitment to building a sustainable future.

Wealth Over Time

Portfolio Holdings

Mars, Incorporated

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Jacqueline Mars was born on October 10, 1939. She is the daughter of Forrest Mars Sr. and Audrey Ruth (Meyer), and the granddaughter of Frank C. Mars, the founder of Mars, Incorporated. She graduated from Bryn Mawr College with a degree in anthropology in 1961.

Rise to Success

Mars joined Mars, Incorporated in 1982, serving as the Food Product Group President. She played a key role in the company's expansion and success. She retired in 2001, but continues to be a co-owner of the company. Her shares in Mars, Inc. and other assets were estimated at $38.5 billion by Forbes magazine in April 2024.

Key Business Strategies

Mars, Inc. is a privately held company, which has allowed Jacqueline Mars to shape the company's strategies without the pressure of shareholders. She is known for her commitment to family, tradition, and quiet philanthropy.

Philanthropy

Jacqueline Mars is actively involved in philanthropy. She is the Chairman Emeritus of the board of directors for the Washington National Opera and serves on the board of the National Sporting Library and Fine Arts Museum. She is also a supporter of the Journey Through Hallowed Ground, an organization that protects historic sites. In addition, she has donated to the National Air and Space Museum.

Career Milestones

1961

Graduated from Bryn Mawr College

Obtained a degree in anthropology.

1982

Joined Mars, Inc.

Served as Food Product Group President.

2001

Retired from Mars, Inc.

Retired from day-to-day operations but remained a co-owner.

2013

Car Accident

Involved in a car accident that resulted in a fatality; pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor reckless driving charge.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Arts

Washington National Opera

$XB

Served as Chairman Emeritus of the board of directors

Arts

National Sporting Library and Fine Arts Museum

$XB

Serves on the board.

History

Journey Through Hallowed Ground

$XB

Supports this organization that protects historic sites.

Art and University Support

The Catholic University of America

$1.25M

Donation to help house a sculpture called "Angels Unawares"

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"I can't go back in time. I can't change what happened. I will always live with the grief and loss caused by this tragedy."

Leadership Principles

Privacy and Humility

Emphasizes the importance of maintaining a low public profile and avoiding the limelight, focusing on family, tradition, and quiet philanthropy.

Commitment to Family

The Mars family has always believed that the biggest contribution toward the world is through the good that Mars, Inc. can do every day.

Controversies & Challenges

2013

Car Accident

Involved in a car accident in Virginia that resulted in a fatality; pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor reckless driving charge.