Nicholas F. Oppenheimer, born on June 8, 1945, is a South African billionaire businessman known for his involvement in the diamond mining industry. He hails from a family with a rich business legacy, as the son of Bridget and Harry Oppenheimer, and the grandson of Anglo American founder Ernest Oppenheimer.
Nicky Oppenheimer
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Biography
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| Born | 8 June 1945
South Africa
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| Education | Harrow School Christ Church, Oxford |
| Occupation | Businessman |
| Spouse | Orcillia Lasch |
| Children | Jonathan Oppenheimer |
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Early life
Oppenheimer’s educational journey took him to prestigious institutions such as Ludgrove School, Harrow School, and Christ Church, Oxford. At Oxford, he pursued Philosophy, Politics, and Economics, earning an Oxford MA.
Personal life
In 1968, he married Orcillia “Strilli” Lasch, daughter of industrial tycoon Helli Lasch; both are Anglican. His father was born Jewish and converted to Anglicanism.
Career
In 1968, Oppenheimer began his career with Anglo American, eventually rising to the position of deputy chairman in 1983. Throughout his tenure, he played significant roles within the company, including serving as deputy chairman of the Central Selling Organisation (now Diamond Trading Company) and chairman of the Diamond Trading Company.
From 1998 to 2012, Oppenheimer served as chairman of the De Beers Group, a renowned diamond mining company. During his leadership, he oversaw various aspects of the company’s operations, contributing to its growth and success.
Oppenheimer’s business acumen and family legacy have earned him a prominent position on global wealth rankings. He has been listed as one of the wealthiest individuals in both the United Kingdom and South Africa. In 2019, Forbes named him the richest person in South Africa, with a reported fortune of US$7.3 billion. His success in the business world and his family’s enduring legacy solidify his reputation as a prominent figure in global business circles
Check out some of his standout contributions:
- Brenthurst Foundation: Oppenheimer founded this foundation to boost economic growth and development across Africa. It’s all about giving the continent a leg up.
- Oppenheimer Memorial Trust: Education and social development get a major boost thanks to this trust. Oppenheimer’s pouring resources into building a brighter future for South Africa.
- Conservation Champion: Oppenheimer’s not afraid to get his hands dirty for a good cause. He’s dishing out cash to establish national parks and protected areas in South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. Talk about putting your money where your mouth is!
- Awards Galore: Oppenheimer’s dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. He’s been honored with prestigious awards like the Order of Good Hope, one of South Africa’s highest honors. That’s some serious recognition for his tireless efforts.
Publications
- Over, Luke; Oppenheimer, Nicky; Tyrrell, Chris (illustrator) (2001). Waltham Place: and its Surrounding Parish. ISBN 0-9541669-0-6.
Awards
Nicky Oppenheimer has received several awards and recognitions for his business and philanthropic contributions. Some of these include:
Order of Good Hope (1999): This is one of South Africa’s highest honors, and Oppenheimer was recognized for his contributions to business and philanthropy.
Carnegie Medal of Philanthropy (2005): Oppenheimer was recognized for his extensive philanthropic work, including his support for African education and conservation efforts.
Botswana’s Presidential Order of Honour (2008): Oppenheimer was awarded this honour in recognition of his contributions to Botswana’s economy and society.
Lifetime Achievement Award (2012): Oppenheimer was recognized for contributing to the mining industry and philanthropic work at the Mining Indaba conference in Cape Town, South Africa.
Business Leadership South Africa’s Business Leader of the Year (2017): Oppenheimer received this award for his leadership in the mining industry and his contributions to society.
Global Leadership Award (2018): Oppenheimer was recognized by the United Nations Foundation and the Global Leadership Council for his philanthropic work and leadership in promoting sustainable development in Africa.
Freedom of the City of London (2019): Oppenheimer was awarded this honour by the City of London Corporation in recognition of his business and philanthropic contributions to society.
FAQs
Q: Who is Nicholas F. Oppenheimer?
A: Nicholas F. Oppenheimer is a prominent South African businessman and philanthropist. He is best known for his leadership in the diamond industry and his extensive charitable work.
Q: What is Nicholas F. Oppenheimer known for?
A: Nicholas F. Oppenheimer is known for his role as the former chairman of De Beers, one of the world’s leading diamond companies. He is also recognized for his philanthropic efforts, particularly in education, social development, and conservation.
Q: What philanthropic organizations has Nicholas F. Oppenheimer been involved with?
A: Nicholas F. Oppenheimer established the Brenthurst Foundation, which focuses on promoting economic growth and development in Africa. He also founded the Oppenheimer Memorial Trust, dedicated to supporting education and social development initiatives in South Africa. Additionally, he has been actively involved in conservation efforts, contributing to the establishment of national parks and protected areas in South Africa, Botswana, and Zimbabwe.
Q: Has Nicholas F. Oppenheimer received any awards or recognition for his philanthropy?
A: Yes, Nicholas F. Oppenheimer has received several awards and honors for his philanthropic contributions. Notably, he has been awarded the Order of Good Hope, one of South Africa’s highest honors, in recognition of his significant impact on society.
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