October 26

Born in 1854 in Springfield, Illinois, Charles William Post overcame personal health struggles by experimenting with hot cereal formulations. In 1895, he founded the Postum Cereal Company and introduced early cereal products like Grape-Nuts and Postum. His 1904 launch of Post Toasties helped establish flaked corn cereal as a breakfast staple. Post pioneered innovative marketing tactics, including premiums and collectible cards, to attract customers. He expanded his business nationally, creating one of the largest cereal manufacturers in the United States. Post's strategies influenced the entire breakfast food industry and set standards for food marketing. He died in 1914, leaving a legacy of entrepreneurship in the American food industry.

Born in 1865 in Philadelphia, Guggenheim managed his family's international mining interests. He lived much of his life in Paris and cultivated a reputation for sophistication and cultural patronage. In April 1912, he boarded the RMS Titanic and assisted women and children into lifeboats during the sinking. Guggenheim famously changed into formal evening wear as the ship went down, embodying chivalry. His actions and fate became emblematic of the Titanic disaster's human stories. He perished in the sinking, securing his place in maritime history and popular memory.

Born in Belfast in 1947, Reg Empey began his career in local business before entering politics. He served as Lord Mayor of Belfast from 1985 to 1986 and was elected MP for Belfast East between 1987 and 1992. Empey led the Ulster Unionist Party from 2005 to 2008 and took on ministerial roles, including Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment. In 2010, he was created a life peer as Baron Empey and has remained active in public service. He is known for his contributions to the Northern Ireland peace process and his pragmatic leadership style.

Born in 1956, Stephen Gumley graduated with a degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Melbourne. In 2003, he was appointed as the inaugural CEO of Australia's Defence Materiel Organisation (DMO), overseeing major acquisition programs. Under his leadership, the DMO implemented reforms to streamline procurement and improve project delivery. Gumley managed contracts for naval vessels, aircraft, and land systems valued in the billions. Prior to that, he held senior roles in the aerospace and automotive industries. After leaving public service, he has advised on defence strategy and industrial partnerships. His career bridges engineering expertise with high-level management in both government and private sectors.