Billionaire Profile

Global Rank

#2714

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Peter Kelly

CEO, Softcat

Real-Time Net Worth

$1.3B

As of December 2025

Age

Source

I.T.

Industry

technology

Citizenship

Biography

Peter Kelly is a British entrepreneur and the founder of Softcat, an IT infrastructure provider. Born in 1957, he is known for building Softcat into a leading company in its industry, earning him a significant net worth. His career began at Xerox before he founded Softcat in 1993, starting the business from his garden shed. Kelly took the company public in 2015, which significantly increased his wealth. He is also known for his employee-focused approach and innovative management practices, earning him recognition as a leader in the technology sector. As of 2024, his net worth is estimated to be $1.3 Billion.

Wealth Over Time

Portfolio Holdings

Softcat

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Peter Kelly was born in the United Kingdom. He initially attended college but later dropped out. Before starting his own business, he worked in sales at Xerox.

Rise to Success

In 1993, Kelly founded Softcat. He started the company from his garden shed, with an initial investment of $44,400. Softcat grew rapidly, becoming a leading IT infrastructure provider. Kelly took Softcat public in 2015 on the London Stock Exchange, significantly increasing his wealth. The company is now valued at £2 Billion.

Key Business Strategies

Kelly's approach to business focused on creating a positive work environment. He implemented innovative management practices, including democratically elected managers and employee voting on pay raises. He is known for offering his staff benefits such as free breakfast and a weekly shirt-ironing service.

Philanthropy

Information on Peter Kelly's specific philanthropic activities and amounts is not readily available in the search results.

Career Milestones

1981

Sales at Rank Xerox

Began his career in sales at Rank Xerox.

1988

Apple Dealership

Established an Apple dealership.

1993

Founded Softcat

Founded Softcat, an IT infrastructure provider, starting the business from his garden shed.

2015

Softcat IPO

Took Softcat public on the London Stock Exchange.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Unknown

Not Available

Undisclosed

Philanthropic information is not readily available.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

""I just care that people are happy.""

Leadership Principles

Employee Focus

Creating a positive work environment where employees feel valued and enjoy their work.

Innovation

Implementing innovative management practices such as employee voting on pay and democratically elected managers.