Billionaire Profile
S
Global Rank
#1209

Image: William F. Robinson | Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Susan Alfond

CEO, Shoes
UNITED STATES
Real-Time Net Worth
$3.492B
Estimated based on Shoes stock value as of March 6, 2026
-0.93% (24h)
Age
80
Source
Shoes
Industry
Fashion & Retail
Citizenship
UNITED STATES

Biography

Susan Alfond is an American investor, philanthropist, and billionaire, recognized as the richest person in Maine. Born in 1946, she inherited her wealth from her father, Harold Alfond, the founder of Dexter Shoe Company. Dexter Shoe was sold to Berkshire Hathaway in 1993, with the shares now worth billions. Susan Alfond's career has been marked by her involvement in the family's investments and her commitment to philanthropy.

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

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Susan Gail Alfond was born in 1946 to Harold Alfond and Dorothy Levine. Her father, Harold, was a prominent businessman and entrepreneur who founded the Dexter Shoe Company in 1958. Alfond's upbringing was rooted in Maine, where her father built a successful shoe manufacturing business, setting the stage for the family's future wealth.

Rise to Success

The Alfond family's wealth significantly increased when Harold Alfond sold Dexter Shoe to Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway in 1993 for $433 million in stock. This strategic move proved to be incredibly lucrative as Berkshire Hathaway shares appreciated over the years. The family's continued ownership of Berkshire Hathaway stock has solidified their position among the wealthiest individuals in the United States. The sale of Dexter Shoe to Berkshire Hathaway would be later called the worst deal Buffett ever made.

Philanthropy

Susan Alfond, like her family, is deeply involved in philanthropic endeavors. The family's commitment to giving back is evident in their support of various causes, including education, healthcare, and youth programs. They have made significant contributions to educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and community organizations, primarily in Maine.

Career Milestones

Her key career milestone is being the daughter of the founder of Dexter Shoe and the beneficiary of a deal with Warren Buffet. She is the richest person in Maine

Career Milestones

1958

Dexter Shoe Company Founded

Harold Alfond founded Dexter Shoe Company, the foundation of the Alfond family's wealth.

1993

Dexter Shoe Sold to Berkshire Hathaway

Harold Alfond sold Dexter Shoe Company to Warren Buffett in exchange for Berkshire Hathaway stock, which greatly increased the family's wealth.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education

Alfond Scholarship Foundation

$90M+

The Alfond Scholarship Foundation has invested over $90 million since 2013 for the future education of more than 180,000 Maine children.

Various

Harold Alfond Foundation

Unknown

Supports education, healthcare, and youth and community development causes.