Billionaire Profile
J
Global Rank
#766

Image: Blish, James Knox, 1843-1920 | Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Jeremy Jacobs Sr & family

CEO, Food service
UNITED STATES
Real-Time Net Worth
$5.425B
Estimated based on Food service stock value as of March 6, 2026
0% (24h)
Age
86
Source
Food service
Industry
Service
Citizenship
UNITED STATES

Biography

Jeremy Jacobs Sr. is an American billionaire businessman and the patriarch of the Jacobs family, known for their significant holdings in the food service and hospitality industries. Born in 1940, Jacobs is the chairman of Delaware North, a global leader in these sectors, and also owns the Boston Bruins of the NHL. His career has been marked by strategic expansion, including the acquisition of the Bruins in 1975, and contributions to NHL governance. With an estimated net worth of $5.4 billion, Jacobs and his family are also recognized for their philanthropic endeavors, particularly in education and healthcare. His leadership has been crucial in growing Delaware North into a major player in the hospitality world.

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

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Jeremy Maurice Jacobs Sr. was born in Buffalo, New York, on January 21, 1940. He is the son of Louis Jacobs and Genevieve Jacobs. His father, along with his uncles, founded a concessions business in 1915, which later became Delaware North. Jeremy Jacobs Sr. took over the family business at the age of 28 after his father's death.

Rise to Success

Under Jeremy Jacobs Sr.'s leadership, Delaware North expanded to become a global hospitality and food service giant. The company operates in lodging, sporting, airport, gaming, and entertainment industries. Jacobs acquired the Boston Bruins in 1975. He oversaw the team's success, including the 2011 Stanley Cup victory. He also funded and oversaw the construction of Boston's TD Garden.

Key Business Strategies

Key strategies included expanding Delaware North's presence across various sectors, including sports venues, airports, and national parks. Another key strategy was the acquisition of the Boston Bruins. In early 2019, Jacobs began handing control of the Boston Bruins team and Delaware North to his six children.

Philanthropy

The Jacobs family is involved in numerous charitable endeavors. They founded the Boston Bruins Foundation, which has raised over $67 million. The family has also donated $50 million to the University at Buffalo, which renamed its medical school after him. In 2012, they donated $1 million to Say Yes Buffalo Scholarship.

Career Milestones

1968

Took over Delaware North

Took over the family business after his father's death.

1975

Acquired the Boston Bruins

Acquired the Boston Bruins NHL team.

2007

Chairman of the NHL Board of Governors

Elected Chairman of the NHL Board of Governors.

2011

Stanley Cup Victory

The Boston Bruins won the Stanley Cup.

2017

Hockey Hall of Fame

Inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Children's Charities

Boston Bruins Foundation

$67M

Founded in 2003 to assist charitable organizations enhancing the quality of life for children throughout New England.

Education

University at Buffalo

$50M

Donations to the University at Buffalo, including the renaming of the medical school.

Education

Say Yes Buffalo Scholarship

$1M

Pledged to Say Yes Buffalo, an education-based initiative.

Medical Research

Jacobs Institute

N/A

Founded the Jacobs Institute, a medical innovation center.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

""I'm the last guy that wants to shut this down – absolutely the last one out there.""

""I'm coming off winning a Stanley Cup (in 2011). I've got a sold-out building. I have a financially sound business. No Debt. Ownership for 37 years""

Leadership Principles

Integrity

Delaware North's founders understood early on not only is it possible to be ethical and successful.

Community Service

Delaware North has a rich tradition of community service.

Controversies & Challenges

2012

NHL Lockout

Jacobs was accused of being responsible for the 2012–13 lockout.