April 07

Will Keith Kellogg was born in Battle Creek, Michigan, in 1860. He developed flaked cereal products and established the Kellogg Company in 1906. Under his leadership, the company popularized corn flakes and pioneered mass marketing strategies. A philanthropist, Kellogg funded educational and medical institutions across the Midwest. He died in 1951, leaving a lasting impact on American food culture and business innovation.

Ole Kirk Christiansen began his career as a carpenter in Billund, Denmark, and started producing wooden toys during the Great Depression. In 1934, he named his company "Lego," derived from the Danish phrase "leg godt," meaning "play well." After experimenting with various designs, Christiansen introduced the first plastic bricks in 1949 and patented the iconic interlocking system in 1958. Under his leadership, Lego transformed from a small workshop into a global toy manufacturer renowned for fostering creativity in children. Christiansen emphasized craftsmanship and quality, principles that continue to define the brand. He also invested in his local community, supporting education and infrastructure in Billund.

Born in 1930 in La Gacilly, France, Yves Rocher inherited his grandmother's interest in herbal remedies and turned it into a business. In 1959, he launched the Institut Bio-Beauté plant-based cosmetics line, emphasizing natural ingredients and direct sales to consumers. Rocher's innovative mail-order model allowed customers to order personalized products, revolutionizing the beauty industry. His company expanded into more than 90 countries, becoming a leader in sustainable sourcing and environmental responsibility. A passionate philanthropist, Rocher invested in environmental conservation projects and supported local communities in Brittany. By the time of his death in 2009, his brand had become synonymous with eco-friendly beauty and remains a major player in the global cosmetics market.

Wayne Rogers (April 7, 1933 – December 31, 2015) was an American actor, investor, and producer. He gained national fame for his role as Captain "Trapper John" McIntyre on the hit TV series M*A*S*H (1972–1975). After leaving the show, he appeared in films and television movies while founding his own production company. In the 1980s, he transitioned into finance as a partner in the investment firm Caldwell & Rogers. He served as a commentator and judge on the financial news program Cashin' In on Fox Business Network. Rogers was known for his sharp wit, affable presence, and acumen in both entertainment and investing. He continued acting with guest roles on series like ER while managing his investment ventures.

Sakıp Sabancı (April 7, 1933 – April 10, 2004) was a prominent Turkish entrepreneur and philanthropist. He chaired Sabancı Holding, expanding it from a cotton trading firm into a diversified conglomerate with interests in banking, automotive, textiles, energy, and retail. Sabancı was known for his innovative management style and commitment to corporate governance. He founded Sabancı University and endowed the Sakıp Sabancı Museum in Istanbul. His philanthropic efforts focused on education, research, and the arts, earning him international recognition. He received numerous awards for his contributions to business and society. His legacy endures through the continued success of Sabancı family enterprises and charitable foundations.

Born on April 7, 1944, Sheldon "Shel" Bachrach built a reputation as a leading insurance broker catering to high-profile clients in film and television. He advised major studios and stars on risk management for productions and events. In addition to his brokerage career, he was a savvy investor in real estate and startups. Bachrach supported numerous philanthropic initiatives, including healthcare and education charities in California. He passed away in 2024, leaving a legacy of professional excellence and community service.

Born in 1945 in London, Gerry Cottle became one of the most influential circus impresarios of his generation. He founded Gerry Cottle's Circus in 1969, blending traditional acts with contemporary flair to revive interest in circus arts. Under his leadership, the circus toured globally, entertaining millions with bold stunts, exotic animals, and themed performances. He also acquired several historic troupes, preserving circuses that might otherwise have disappeared. Cottle was known for his showmanship, marketing genius, and dedication to keeping circus heritage alive. Until his death in 2021, he remained a beloved figure who brought joy to audiences worldwide.

Robert Metcalfe is an American electrical engineer and entrepreneur best known for co-inventing Ethernet technology. Born in 1946, he helped launch the digital networking revolution by founding the company 3Com in 1979. Metcalfe served as a professor at MIT and the University of Texas at Austin, where he nurtured future technology leaders. He has authored influential papers on networking and served as president of the IEEE. Metcalfe received the National Medal of Technology and Innovation for his groundbreaking work. Beyond engineering, he is an active venture capitalist and public speaker on innovation.

Annika Billström is a Swedish businesswoman and Social Democratic politician who led Stockholm as its first female mayor from 2002 to 2006. Before entering politics, she held executive roles in the private sector, focusing on urban development projects. As mayor, Billström championed improvements in public transportation, affordable housing, and environmental sustainability. Her tenure saw the expansion of the city’s tram network and initiatives to enhance social welfare programs. After leaving office, she continued to advocate for urban planning and sustainable business practices in Sweden.

Born in Madrid into a prominent aristocratic family, Jaime de Marichalar graduated in economics before building a career in international finance. He worked for Credit Suisse First Boston and later held advisory roles in various Spanish companies. In 1995, he married Infanta Elena, Duchess of Lugo, becoming Count of Murillo; the couple had two children before their divorce in 2009. Marichalar has since returned to private business ventures and philanthropic work, supporting cultural and educational initiatives in Spain. His life bridges the worlds of royalty and global finance.

Educated at the University of Oxford, Nick Herbert began his career in corporate finance before entering politics. Elected MP in 2005, he held frontbench roles including Shadow Minister for Policing and later served as Minister of State for Policing under Prime Minister David Cameron. Known for his expertise on security and criminal justice, Herbert advocated for community policing reforms and counter-terrorism measures. After leaving government, he returned to the private sector as a strategic consultant and continued to engage in public policy debates. He remains active in charitable organizations focused on youth and crime prevention.