Early Life
Marijke Elizabeth Mars was born in 1965 into the Mars family, known for their confectionery and pet food businesses. Her great-grandfather, Frank C. Mars, founded the Mars company in 1911. She is the daughter of Forrest Mars Jr. and has three sisters: Pamela Mars-Wright, Valerie Mars, and Victoria B. Mars. Marijke is the fourth generation of the Mars family, which has a long history of entrepreneurial success.
Rise to Success
After graduating from Duke University with a B.A./B.Sc., Marijke Mars began her career at Mars, Inc., the family-owned business. She worked as a regional manager for Kal Kan Foods, a Mars Inc. pet food company, gaining valuable experience in the industry. Currently, she holds a position at Mars Food, a division of Mars Inc. that focuses on food products. In 2016, she inherited an estimated 8% stake in Mars, Inc., solidifying her status as a billionaire.
Key Business Strategies
Marijke Mars is actively involved in Mars, Incorporated and serves on the company's board of directors. The Mars family's business strategy has focused on long-term objectives, such as sustainable growth and innovation, which are enabled by the company’s private, family-owned structure. Mars, Inc. has expanded through acquisitions, including the $9 billion acquisition of VCA, and the purchase of Kellanova. The company operates on the Five Principles: Quality, Responsibility, Mutuality, Efficiency, and Freedom.
Philanthropy
Marijke Mars is involved in philanthropic activities, focusing on education, healthcare, and environmental conservation. The Mars family has long been engaged in charitable work, particularly in environmental sustainability, education, and global health. The Mars Foundation, where Marijke serves as Vice President/Director, funds various projects across 17 U.S. states.