Warren Buffett, the 94-year-old investor and chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, has officially named his successor after years of speculation. Howard “Howie” Buffett, Warren’s 70-year-old middle son, has been selected to take over as the non-executive chairman of the multi-billion-dollar conglomerate. Howie’s career path has been diverse, starting with his excavating business and moving into farming.
His father bought a farm for Howie to manage, and Howie has consistently maintained that he paid market-rate rent for the property. In addition to his agricultural pursuits, Howie has served in various civic positions, including as a sheriff and on the Nebraska ethanol board. He has also been a member of the Berkshire Hathaway board since 1993. He has served on the boards of other corporations, such as Coca-Cola Enterprises, ConAgra Foods, and Lindsay Corporation.
Howie has observed and learned from his father’s leadership at Berkshire Hathaway for more than three decades. “I feel I’m prepared for it because he prepared me,” Howie said.
Buffett’s heir prepares for leadership
“That’s a lot of years of influence and a lot of years of teaching.”
Philanthropy has also been a significant part of Howie’s life. The Howard G. Buffett Foundation’s foundation has spent over $800 million on various initiatives, including food aid, agriculture, demining, and supporting war-crime investigations.
After the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Howie actively assisted, traveling to the country 16 times to meet with government officials, distribute food, and support victims of the war. When asked about his decision to appoint Howie as his successor, Warren Buffett was candid: “He is getting it because he’s my son. I’m very, very, very lucky in the fact that I trust all three of my children,” he told the Wall Street Journal.
As Howie prepares to enter his new role, the business world is watching keenly. His unique blend of experience, values, and vision promises to guide Berkshire Hathaway into the future while upholding his father’s esteemed legacy. This transition period is not only a significant moment for Berkshire Hathaway but also a testament to the enduring impact of the Buffett family on the global business and philanthropic landscape.
