BillionaireNet
Dommermuth
Ralph Dommermuth
Rank #1164
GERMANYTechnologyInternet service provider

Ralph Dommermuth

Net Worth
$3.512B
+2.65% (24h)
Ralph Dommermuth (born 1963) is a prominent German businessman, celebrated as the founder and driving force behind United Internet AG. His journey began with 1&1 EDV Marketing GmbH in 1988, evolving into a leading Internet service provider. Through strategic vision, Dommermuth has built a vast fortune, earning him the title of Germany's first Internet Billionaire, with a net worth of $3.4 billion. Dommermuth's career highlights include founding 1&1, taking it public in 1998, and leading its growth into a major broadband provider managing brands like 1&1, GMX, and Web.de. He owns a substantial share of United Internet AG, and he has been involved in significant investments, including a stake in Borussia Dortmund. His achievements have significantly shaped Germany's digital infrastructure.

The Full Dossier

Early Life

Ralph Dommermuth was born in Montabaur, Germany, in 1963. He grew up as the son of a realtor and has one brother. After initial training at Deutsche Bank, he began his career as a sales freelancer for a local PC dealer in his hometown in 1983.

Rise to Success

In 1988, Dommermuth co-founded 1&1 EDV Marketing GmbH with a business partner. This company initially provided marketing services for software suppliers. In 1996, Dommermuth transformed 1&1 into an internet service provider. In March 1998, 1&1 had its IPO as the first German Internet company. Dommermuth owns 42% of United Internet.

Key Business Strategies

Dommermuth's key business strategies involved the transformation of 1&1 into an internet service provider, strategic investments, and expansion into various markets. He played a crucial role in the development of Germany's 5G network. United Internet has grown into one of the largest broadband providers in Germany, with brands like 1&1, GMX, and Web.de.

Philanthropy

Dommermuth is known for his philanthropic efforts, contributing to charitable causes through his foundations and donations. He has supported UNICEF and founded the Westerwelle Foundation.

Career Timeline

2019

5G Frequency Auction

Successfully participated in the 5G frequency auction.

2018

Chairman of the Management Board of 1&1 AG

Took over as Chairman of the Management Board.

1998

1&1 IPO

Took 1&1 public, the first German internet company on the Neuer Markt.

1996

Transformed 1&1 into an Internet Service Provider

Pivoted the company's focus to internet services.

1988

Founded 1&1 EDV Marketing GmbH

Co-founded the company that would later become United Internet.

1983

Sales Freelancer

Began career as a sales freelancer for a local PC dealer.

Philanthropic Impact

Children's Aid$70M+

UNICEF Donation

Significant contributions through his foundation and donations.

Education and EntrepreneurshipUndisclosed

Westerwelle Foundation

Co-founded the Westerwelle Foundation.

Wealth Trajectory