March 17

Gottlieb Daimler was born in Schorndorf, Germany, in 1834 and studied engineering at the Stuttgart Polytechnic. He worked alongside Nikolaus Otto at Deutz Gasmotorenfabrik, where he helped develop the high-speed petrol engine. In 1890, Daimler co-founded Daimler-Motoren-Gesellschaft with Wilhelm Maybach, launching the Mercedes automobile brand. He patented the spray nozzle carburetor and adapted engines for use in motor vehicles, boats, and airships. Daimler's innovations laid the foundation for the global automotive industry and transformed personal and commercial transport. He passed away in 1900, leaving a legacy as a pioneer of engine design and automotive engineering.

Charles F. Brush was born in Euclid Township, Ohio in 1849. He graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a degree in engineering and went on to invent a practical electric arc lamp in the 1870s. His invention led to the formation of the Brush Electric Company, which installed the first electric streetlights in Cleveland and New York City. Brush also developed generators and dynamos that improved power generation and distribution systems. A successful businessman, he used his wealth to fund research and philanthropic efforts, donating to educational and scientific institutions. His contributions helped lay the foundation for modern electric lighting and power utilities. He died in 1929, leaving a legacy as a pioneer of the electrical age.

Born in 1910 in New York City, Sonny Werblin graduated from Rutgers University. He began his career at the Music Corporation of America, innovating talent packaging for television. In 1959, he became chairman of the Madison Square Garden Corporation and expanded its entertainment ventures. Werblin acquired the New York Jets in 1963, famously signing quarterback Joe Namath. Under his leadership, the Jets won Super Bowl III in 1969, a landmark moment for the AFL. He was also a generous philanthropist, donating to universities, hospitals, and the arts. Werblin died in 1991, remembered for shaping modern professional sports and entertainment.

Born in Winnipeg, William John McKeag built a successful career in real estate and community development. He entered provincial politics and was appointed as Manitoba’s 17th Lieutenant Governor in 1970. In this ceremonial role, he promoted heritage, education, and the arts throughout the province. McKeag supported numerous charitable organizations and received several civic honors. After his term, he continued to contribute to business and volunteer initiatives in Manitoba. He is remembered for his leadership and dedication to public service.

Born in 1949, Sir Stuart Rose has been a transformative leader in British retail, serving as Chief Executive of Marks & Spencer and Chairman of Ocado. Under his leadership, Marks & Spencer achieved renewed profitability through strategic brand management and digital innovation. He has also held top roles at Boots and other major companies, demonstrating expertise across retail sectors. Rose was knighted in 2008 for his services to business and charitable work. He continues to influence corporate governance and entrepreneurship through board roles and advisory positions.

Carsten Almqvist is a Swedish business executive known for his expertise in corporate finance and strategic leadership. Across his career, he has contributed to the growth and transformation of companies in the technology and media sectors. He has built a reputation for driving digital innovation and promoting sustainable business practices. Almqvist is recognized for his ability to navigate complex market challenges and implement effective cost optimization. He frequently shares insights on leadership and transformation at industry conferences. His work has influenced strategic direction in multiple European corporations. Beyond business, he supports philanthropic efforts focused on education and entrepreneurship.

Barry Minkow is an American entrepreneur who founded the carpet-cleaning company ZZZZ Best in his teens and gained national attention by taking it public. It was later exposed as a massive Ponzi scheme, leading to his 1988 conviction for securities and mail fraud and a five-year prison sentence. After his release, Minkow became a born-again Christian and was ordained as a pastor. He established the Fraud Discovery Institute to uncover corporate fraud and worked as a whistleblower. In 2011, he faced further legal scrutiny related to insider trading, highlighting the complexities of his redemption and controversy.

Lee Alexander McQueen was an innovative English fashion designer renowned for his bold and theatrical runway presentations. Apprenticed on Savile Row, he later served as head designer at Givenchy before launching his own label in 1992. McQueen's work combined impeccable tailoring with provocative storytelling, earning him British Designer of the Year awards four times. His partnership with Gucci Group helped expand his brand globally, and the 'Savage Beauty' exhibition has been showcased in major museums worldwide. Despite his tragic death in 2010, McQueen's visionary designs continue to influence the fashion industry.