Early Life
William Patrick Foley II was born on December 29, 1944, in Austin, Texas. He developed a lifelong passion for ice hockey during his childhood. He attended the United States Military Academy (West Point), where he demonstrated an early aptitude for financial investments, making $40,000 in the stock market while a cadet.
Rise to Success
After graduating from West Point with a degree in engineering, Foley served in the U.S. Air Force, where he negotiated million-dollar defense contracts with Boeing. He later earned a J.D. from the University of Washington in 1974 and transitioned into corporate law. Foley's career highlights include revitalizing Fidelity National Financial, a struggling title insurance firm, and making significant investments in various industries.
Key Business Strategies
Foley's success is attributed to his strategic acquisitions and operational management. He is known for his ability to recognize growth opportunities and has built a strong track record of building and maintaining stockholder value and successfully negotiating and implementing mergers and acquisitions. Foley's leadership style is characterized by supporting his people and delegating authority and responsibility. He is also known for his focus on the customer and his ability to adapt to market cycles.
Philanthropy
Foley and his wife are active philanthropists, supporting various charitable causes, especially in children's education. He founded the Foley Family Charitable Foundation in 1999, the Folded Flag Foundation, and supports the Vegas Golden Knights Foundation.