Early Life
Peter Kendal Hargreaves was born on October 5, 1946, in Clitheroe, Lancashire, England. He attended Clitheroe Royal Grammar School, where he developed an early interest in mathematics and finance. After school, he trained as an accountant. This background gave him the financial acumen that would later be crucial in his entrepreneurial journey.
Rise to Success
In 1981, Hargreaves co-founded Hargreaves Lansdown with Stephen Lansdown. The company started from a bedroom in Bristol, with a mission to make financial markets accessible to everyday people. Hargreaves served as CEO until 2010, overseeing the growth of Hargreaves Lansdown into one of the UK's largest financial services platforms. The company was listed on the London Stock Exchange, a testament to Hargreaves's success. Even during financial crises, Hargreaves focused on communicating openly with clients, building trust and loyalty.
Key Business Strategies
Hargreaves Lansdown's success was built on a simple yet effective model: providing clients with the best information, prices, and service. The company's innovative marketing strategies, including direct mail and clear communication, attracted a large customer base. Hargreaves emphasized cost-consciousness and a focus on client needs. He was known for his frugality and disciplined approach to business.
Philanthropy
Hargreaves established The Hargreaves Foundation, donating around £100 million in company shares. The foundation supports young people, focusing on education and sport, particularly for those with disabilities or from underprivileged backgrounds. He has also made substantial donations to political causes. In 2016, he was the biggest donor to the Brexit campaign.