Early Life
Peter Kendal Hargreaves was born on October 5, 1946, in Clitheroe, Lancashire, England. Growing up above his father's bakery instilled in him a strong work ethic and a practical approach to finances. He attended Clitheroe Royal Grammar School, where he developed an early interest in mathematics and finance. After school, he trained as a chartered accountant, gaining the skills and knowledge that would underpin his future entrepreneurial success.
Rise to Success
Hargreaves began his career as an accountant and later transitioned into a computer salesman. In 1981, he co-founded Hargreaves Lansdown with Stephen Lansdown. The company was launched from a spare bedroom with the goal of empowering individuals to control their financial futures through direct investments. Hargreaves Lansdown quickly became a leading UK financial services firm. He served as CEO until 2010, overseeing the company's growth into a FTSE 100 company managing billions of pounds in assets.
Key Business Strategies
Hargreaves Lansdown's success can be attributed to several key strategies. The firm focused on providing clear, jargon-free communication to attract investors. Hargreaves emphasized discipline, cost-consciousness, and a strong focus on client needs. Even during financial crises, he ensured open communication with clients, building trust and loyalty. In 2025, he rejoined the board of Hargreaves Lansdown as a non-executive director after a private equity takeover, reflecting his enduring influence.
Philanthropy
Peter Hargreaves established The Hargreaves Foundation, donating around £100 million in company shares. The foundation supports young people, particularly those with disabilities or from underprivileged backgrounds, providing opportunities in education and sport. Through these initiatives, Hargreaves demonstrates a commitment to giving back to society and ensuring that his success contributes to the betterment of future generations.
