Early Life
Robert D. Ziff was born in 1967. His mother, Barbara Ingrid Beitz, had parents recognized for helping Jews during World War II. His father, William Bernard Ziff Jr., was a media magnate who built the Ziff-Davis publishing empire. Ziff studied electrical and computer engineering at Harvard University, graduating magna cum laude. He then graduated first in his class from Cornell Law School in 1992 and served as editor of the Cornell Law Review.
Rise to Success
In 1994, Robert and his brothers inherited the family fortune after their father sold Ziff-Davis for $1.4 billion. They established Ziff Brothers Investments in New York City, which became a successful family office specializing in hedge funds, private equity, and other investments. Under Robert's guidance, the firm employed a long-term investment strategy. In 2014, the firm transitioned, deciding to allocate capital to external managers.
Key Business Strategies
Ziff's approach to investing is characterized by meticulous research, a long-term vision, and a commitment to excellence. He is known for his ability to adapt to changing market dynamics. He is recognized for his methodical and patient approach to investing, which has allowed Ziff Brothers Investments to thrive in volatile markets.
Philanthropy
Robert Ziff is committed to philanthropy and has donated to education, healthcare, and environmental conservation. He established the Robert D. Ziff Professorship of Law at Cornell Law School in 2008 and endowed the Robert B. Kent Public Interest Fund at Cornell in 2017.
