October 05

Joseph Crosfield was born in 1792 in Warrington, England, and established himself as a successful industrialist. In 1814, he founded a soap and chemical factory that introduced innovative processes for large-scale production. Crosfield’s company expanded rapidly, producing soap, alkali, and bleaching powder for domestic and international markets. He invested in new machinery and quality control methods, setting standards in the emerging chemical industry. Crosfield was also active in local civic affairs, supporting education and public welfare initiatives in his community. His leadership laid the groundwork for a company that would become a global chemical enterprise. He died in 1844, leaving a legacy of industrial innovation and entrepreneurship.

Alexander Keith was born in 1795 in Scotland and emigrated to Nova Scotia in the early 19th century. In 1820, he founded Alexander Keith’s Brewery in Halifax, introducing popular ales that became regionally famous. The brewery’s signature India Pale Ale and Scottish-style beers helped establish a brewing tradition in North America. Keith served three terms as the 13th Mayor of Halifax, overseeing urban improvements and civic institutions. He was known for his philanthropy, supporting local hospitals and educational causes. His entrepreneurial spirit and public service endeared him to the Halifax community. Keith died in 1873, and his brewery remains one of Canada’s oldest surviving beer producers.

Born in Oak Park, Illinois, Ray Kroc joined McDonald's in 1954 as a franchising agent and saw its worldwide potential. He opened the first franchised McDonald's restaurant, revolutionizing the fast-food industry with standardized processes. Under his leadership, the chain grew to thousands of outlets across the globe. A visionary operator and marketing pioneer, Kroc insisted on strict quality control and consistency. His success made McDonald's a household name and one of the world's most recognizable brands. Kroc was also a generous philanthropist, supporting education and the arts before his death in 1984.

Frederic Morton began his career in banking after emigrating from Austria, later forging a successful path as a journalist and author. His works, including the acclaimed memoir 'A Nervous Splendor,' vividly recreate the cultural and social life of Vienna before World War II. Morton’s masterful storytelling and meticulous research brought European history to life for readers around the world. He also wrote extensively for magazines and newspapers, blending personal insight with historical depth. Over his long career, Morton received numerous awards and honors for his contributions to literature and journalism.

Born in 1929 in Chicago into the influential Wirtz family, Bill Wirtz rose to lead the Wirtz Corporation and its diverse holdings. As president, he managed real estate, hospitality, and beverage ventures, expanding the company's reach. In 1975, he became majority owner of the NHL's Chicago Blackhawks, a position he held until his death. Under his tenure, the team experienced both on-ice successes and a controversial policy of locally blacking out home game broadcasts. Wirtz was known for his pragmatic and often conservative business decisions, prioritizing long-term stability over risky expansion. He also supported numerous charitable and cultural initiatives in the Chicago area. Wirtz's leadership left a lasting imprint on professional sports and business when he passed in 2007.

Born in 1934 in Calgary, Kenneth D. Taylor built a successful career in business before joining Canada's diplomatic corps. As the Canadian ambassador to Iran in 1979, he orchestrated the rescue of six American diplomats during the Iran hostage crisis. Taylor's covert efforts included providing passports and planning escape routes, a mission later dubbed the 'Canadian Caper.' He was lauded internationally for his courage and creative diplomacy, earning the U.S. Congressional Gold Medal. After his diplomatic service, Taylor returned to the private sector, applying his leadership skills to corporate ventures. He also authored a memoir recounting his experiences in Tehran and his lifelong commitment to public service. Taylor passed away in 2015, remembered as a diplomat who made history through bravery and ingenuity.

Teresa Heinz was born in Mozambique and later became a U.S. citizen, joining the family behind the H.J. Heinz Company. She married U.S. Senator John Heinz and, after his death, continued the family's philanthropic legacy. As chair of the Heinz Endowments and Heinz Family Philanthropies, she has directed millions toward education and the arts. Heinz married Senator John Kerry in 1995 and actively supported his political and humanitarian endeavors. She champions women's rights, environmental protection, and sustainable community development. Heinz has served on numerous boards, including environmental and cultural organizations worldwide. Her leadership has advanced initiatives in clean energy, public health, and social justice. Heinz's blend of business acumen and compassion has made her a leading figure in global philanthropy.

Philip Hampton began his career in accounting and rose through the ranks at Pricewaterhouse. He held top executive roles at British Sky Broadcasting and GlaxoSmithKline, overseeing complex financial operations. As chairman of J Sainsbury plc, he steered the company through strategic restructuring and modernization. Hampton's expertise in corporate governance and risk management has earned him industry-wide respect. He has served on various boards and contributed to public inquiries on financial stability. In recognition of his services to business, he was knighted in 2008.

Born in 1955, Turner studied at Oxford and earned a reputation as an authority on global finance. He served as chief executive of the Confederation of British Industry and Allied Domecq. As chairman of the Financial Services Authority, he oversaw post-crisis banking reforms. Turner has advised governments on pensions, climate change, and economic policy. His publications and lectures explore sustainable growth and financial stability. Elevated to the House of Lords in 2005, he continues to influence public debate on economic governance.

Malik Saidullaev is a Russian businessman born in 1964. He has founded and managed companies in real estate and hospitality. His development projects have influenced urban growth in multiple Russian regions. Saidullaev is known for his investments in energy and infrastructure ventures. He supports various philanthropic causes and community development programs. Despite facing business challenges, he remains active in strategic investments.

Annely Akkermann began her career in finance, holding executive positions at Estonian banks and serving on corporate boards. She entered politics as a member of the centre-right Isamaa party and was elected to the Riigikogu in 2015. In parliament, she has worked on economic policy, banking regulation, and digital innovation initiatives. Akkermann holds a degree in business administration from Tallinn University of Technology. Her dual expertise in finance and governance has made her a prominent figure in Estonia’s economic development.