Early Life
Christoph Henkel was born on February 11, 1958, in Düsseldorf, West Germany. He is the grandson of Friedrich Karl Henkel, who founded the Henkel company in 1876. Henkel's father, Konrad Henkel, later led the company. Growing up in an affluent family, Christoph had access to quality education and opportunities.
Rise to Success
In 1999, following his father's passing, Christoph Henkel inherited a significant stake in Henkel, estimated at £1 billion. He became a co-founder and co-owner of Canyon Equity, an investment firm based in Larkspur, California. He also owns the Dunton Hot Springs resort in Colorado, US. In the Sunday Times Rich List 2022, he was ranked 5th with an estimated family fortune of £15 billion, and ranked #1,118 on the list of the richest people in the world and 71st in Germany.
Key Business Strategies
Henkel's business acumen led him to become the largest single stockholder in Henkel AG after inheriting his father's interest. He expanded his investments by co-founding Canyon Equity. He also invested in real estate holdings and developed luxury resorts.
Philanthropy
Christoph Henkel is known for his philanthropic endeavors, supporting various charitable causes, and serves on the advisory board of the G12++ certificate, a high school-equivalent certificate tailor-made for refugees by Alsama Project. He also supports philanthropy through trusteeships, including at the UK education charity IntoUniversity.