Kevin O’Leary is a Canadian businessman, investor, television personality, and author. He is best known as one of the sharks on the ABC reality television series Shark Tank. O’Leary has also founded or co-founded several companies, including SoftKey Software Products, a software company that was acquired by Mattel for $3.7 billion in 1999.
O’Leary was born in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, on July 9, 1954. He graduated from the University of Waterloo with a degree in environmental studies.
After graduating from university, O’Leary worked as a marketing executive for several companies, including Procter & Gamble and Rubbermaid. In 1983, he co-founded SoftKey Software Products. The company grew rapidly and was eventually acquired by Mattel.
O’Leary left SoftKey in 1997 and founded O’Leary Funds, an investment firm. He also founded several other businesses, including a wine company and a clothing line.
In 2009, O’Leary joined the cast of Shark Tank. The show features a panel of wealthy investors who listen to pitches from entrepreneurs and decide whether to invest in their businesses. O’Leary has been a popular member of the panel, and he has invested in several successful businesses on the show.
O’Leary is a frequent speaker at business conferences and events. He is also the author of several books, including “Cold Hard Truth: On Business, Money, and Life” and “The Kevin O’Leary Way: Get Rich, Smart and Fast.”
O’Leary is a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs. He is a reminder that anyone can achieve their dreams if they are willing to work hard and never give up.
Here are some other notable achievements in Kevin O’Leary’s life and career:
- He was named one of the “Top 100 Entrepreneurs” by Fortune magazine in 2010.
- He is the recipient of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year award for Canada in 2004.
- He is the founder of the O’Leary Foundation, which provides scholarships and grants to students in business and entrepreneurship.
Kevin O’Leary’s narrative underscores the value of savvy investments and entrepreneurial grit. He exemplifies the mantra that success lies where preparation meets opportunity.