Billionaire Profile
Nicola Bulgari
Global Rank
#1932

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Nicola Bulgari

CEO, Bulgari
IT
Real-Time Net Worth
$2B
As of December 2025
Age
84
Source
Luxury goods
Industry
fashion-retail
Citizenship
IT

Biography

Nicola Bulgari, born in Rome in 1941, is a prominent figure in the luxury goods industry as the Vice Chairman of Bulgari, a renowned Italian luxury brand. As the grandson of the founder, Sotirios Bulgari, he played a key role in the company's global expansion into jewelry, watches, accessories, and leather goods. With an estimated net worth of $2.0 billion, Nicola Bulgari's wealth stems from his involvement in luxury goods. His career includes a significant role in transforming Bulgari into a global luxury powerhouse, and he is recognized for his passion for vintage American cars. His career highlights include being Vice Chairman of Bulgari since 1984, and receiving the America Award in 2015.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Nicola Bulgari was born in Rome, Italy, in 1941. He is the grandson of Sotirios Bulgari, who founded the luxury goods company Bulgari in 1884. Growing up in a wealthy and privileged environment, he developed a love for luxury and fashion from an early age. He has two brothers, Gianni and Paolo Bulgari, and a sister, Lia.

Rise to Success

Nicola Bulgari joined the family business in 1972. He quickly rose through the ranks and became the Vice Chairman of Bulgari in 1984. Under his leadership, Bulgari expanded its global presence, opening stores in numerous cities worldwide and introducing new product lines that attracted a wider customer base. In 2011, the Bulgari family sold its controlling stake to LVMH.

Key Business Strategies

Bulgari's success is attributed to its unique blend of Roman heritage and contemporary design. The brand strategically expanded into watches, accessories, and hotels. Nicola Bulgari's vision contributed to the brand's diversification and global recognition. The company focuses on digital innovation and artisanship.

Philanthropy

Nicola Bulgari is also a known philanthropist. He has been a member of the Board of Trustees of Carnegie Hall since 2007. He has also supported young talents in numerous spheres of the arts across the world. He is also a supporter of automotive heritage, including training programs for students to maintain historical knowledge.

Career Milestones

1972

Joined Bulgari

Began his career within the family business.

1984

Vice Chairman of Bulgari

Became Vice Chairman of Bulgari, contributing to its global expansion.

2015

America Award

Received the America Award from the Italy-USA Foundation.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Arts

Keyboard Charitable Trust

Undisclosed

Honorary President.

Arts

Carnegie Hall

Undisclosed

Member of the Board of Trustees.

Arts

Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia

Undisclosed

Board of Directors.

Automotive Heritage

NB Center for American Automotive Heritage

Undisclosed

Supports training programs to maintain historical knowledge.

Automotive Heritage

Fondazione Nicola Bulgari

Undisclosed

Supports philanthropy focused on automotive heritage

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

"He once turned down an offer from Andy Warhol to exchange a painting for Bulgari jewels. "It was the worst deal of my life," he said."

Controversies & Challenges

2013

Tax Evasion Case

Involved in a tax evasion case, leading to the seizure of assets worth €46 million. Was ordered to stand trial in 2015 but denied the charges.