Early Life
Born in Hong Kong in 1941, Michael Kadoorie is a member of the prominent Kadoorie family, with roots tracing back to Iraqi Jewish heritage. His grandfather, Elly Kadoorie, established the family business in Hong Kong in 1880 after initially settling in Shanghai. Kadoorie received his education at King George V School in Hong Kong and Institut Le Rosey in Switzerland.
Rise to Success
Kadoorie began his career within the family enterprises, entering Sir Elly Kadoorie & Sons Limited in 1964. He became chairman of China Light & Power (now CLP Holdings) in 1967 at age 26 and has held the position through the company's expansion. He took on the chairmanship of The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels in 1985, overseeing the Peninsula Hotels chain.
Key Business Strategies
Kadoorie's leadership has focused on growing and diversifying the family's businesses. For CLP Holdings, this involved expanding its reach in Hong Kong and into mainland China, as well as markets in Australia and India. With The Hongkong and Shanghai Hotels, he has maintained and grown the luxury Peninsula Hotels brand. He has also focused on renewable energy initiatives through CLP Holdings.
Philanthropy
Kadoorie is actively involved in philanthropy through the Kadoorie Charitable Foundation, supporting various educational and agricultural projects, particularly in Nepal, helping over one million people. He has also supported projects in Hong Kong and Shanghai.