Early Life
Kjell Inge Røkke was born in Molde, Norway, on October 25, 1958. He started his career at the age of 18, working as a fisherman. Without formal education, he moved to the United States to work on trawlers in Alaska. He saved enough money to buy his first vessels, eventually becoming the owner of the American Seafoods Group.
Rise to Success
During the 1980s, Røkke was based in Seattle, Washington, operating American Seafoods and Resource Group International (RGI), which included brands like Brooks Sports and Helly Hansen. In the mid-1990s, he returned to Norway and became Aker ASA's main shareholder when RGI acquired enough shares to become its largest shareholder. The two companies merged in January 1997. Through Aker, Røkke gained a significant position in the fisheries sector and acquired the well-established fishery business J.M. Johansen. He is now chairman of Aker ASA, an industrial investment company with interests in oil and gas, maritime assets, and marine biotechnology.
Key Business Strategies
Røkke's business strategy involved early investments in the fishing industry, expanding into shipping and, later, into oil and gas and marine biotechnology through Aker ASA. He is known for his ability to identify opportunities and take calculated risks. He became the largest shareholder of Aker ASA in 1996, solidifying his position in the market.
Philanthropy
In May 2017, Røkke and his wife joined the Giving Pledge, committing to donate most of their wealth to philanthropic causes. His philanthropy includes the establishment of the REV Ocean initiative, focusing on ocean research and conservation. He has also supported educational and research institutions in Norway, including the Aker Scholarship.