Early Life
Sir Michael David Kadoorie was born in Hong Kong in 1941 to the Jewish Kadoorie family. His parents were Lawrence Kadoorie, a business tycoon, and Muriel Gubbay. He received his early education at Kowloon Junior School in Hong Kong and later attended Institut Le Rosey in Switzerland. His family has roots in business in the Far East dating back to his grandfather, Elly Kadoorie, who settled in Shanghai in 1880.
Rise to Success
Kadoorie's career is marked by his chairmanship of significant companies. He became the chairman of CLP Holdings Ltd. in 1967, at the age of 26. CLP Holdings provides electricity to 75% of Hong Kong. He also serves as the chairman of Hong Kong and Shanghai Hotels, owners of the Peninsula Hotel Group, since 1985. In 2022, he increased his family's stake in Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels to 72.4%.
Key Business Strategies
Kadoorie's business strategy has focused on long-term thinking and stability. Under his leadership, CLP Holdings has expanded its reach in the energy sector. He also emphasizes the importance of preserving the Peninsula Hotels' timeless elegance while incorporating modern innovation.
Philanthropy
Michael Kadoorie's philanthropic efforts include the Kadoorie Charitable Foundation, which has aided over a million people in Nepal since the 1970s. The foundation supports educational and agricultural projects. He has also contributed to various initiatives that uplift communities and promote social well-being.