What is Ernesto Bertarelli's Net Worth?
Ernesto Bertarelli, a notable businessman, boasts an impressive net worth of $15 billion, making him the wealthiest individual in Switzerland. Born in Rome, Italy, Bertarelli relocated to Switzerland during his childhood. He pursued higher education at Babson College, later earning an MBA from Harvard Business School in the early 1990s.
Career Achievements and Business Ventures
In 1996, Bertarelli ascended to the role of CEO at Serono, following his father's footsteps who founded the pharmaceutical company. By 1998, after his father's passing, Ernesto and his sister transformed Serono from focusing solely on pharmaceuticals to embracing biotechnology. This strategic pivot significantly boosted the company's profitability, with earnings skyrocketing from $809 million to $2.8 billion within a decade.
In a remarkable merger in 2007, Serono joined forces with the German pharmaceutical giant Merck KGaA to form Merck-Serono. Apart from his endeavors at Serono, Bertarelli served on the board of UBS AG for seven years. Currently, he oversees multiple investments through Kedge Capital Group and Northill Capital and leads Ares Life Sciences, an investment firm focused on medical technology.
Personal Life and Interests
Ernesto Bertarelli has a passion for competitive sailing, which led him to establish Team Alinghi in 2000. This dedication to sport underscores his multifaceted interests beyond business. In 2000, Ernesto married Kirsty Roper, who holds the title of former Miss UK.
Net Worth Insights
The cornerstone of Bertarelli's wealth emanates from his 65% ownership stake in Serono. The company's sale to Merck for $8.6 billion in 2006 marked a significant milestone. Additionally, since 2000, the Bertarelli family has accrued over $1 billion by selling nearly two million shares of Serono during its IPO. Presently, Ernesto is credited with managing the family's shares, which include those of his mother and sister.
