Michael Bloomberg

Michael Bloomberg’s career trajectory is defined by radical innovation in financial technology and high-stakes political leadership. After being fired from Salomon Brothers in 1981, he used his severance to found Innovative Market Systems (later Bloomberg L.P.). He revolutionized financial information delivery by integrating data, analytics, and trading tools into a single platform—the now-ubiquitous Bloomberg Terminal. This innovation rapidly made him one of the wealthiest people globally and fundamentally changed how Wall Street operates. In 2001, Bloomberg transitioned into politics, successfully running for Mayor of New York City. He served three terms (2002–2013), guiding the city through the aftermath of 9/11 and implementing major public health policies, including banning smoking in restaurants and pushing for calorie counts on menus. His administration focused heavily on measurable results, urban planning, and fiscal management. He famously took only a $1 annual salary for his entire tenure as Mayor. Today, Bloomberg focuses intensely on global philanthropy through Bloomberg Philanthropies, which distributes billions of dollars annually. His major areas of focus are climate change (leading the 'America's Pledge' coalition), public health (anti-tobacco and road safety initiatives), and gun control (founding Everytown for Gun Safety). His influence stems not only from his vast wealth but from his commitment to applying data-driven business management principles to solve complex global and civic problems.

• •Bloomberg famously took an annual salary of $1.00 during his entire 12 years as Mayor of New York City.
• •He earned a B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Johns Hopkins University and an MBA from Harvard Business School.
• •He is known for being disciplined about flying commercial, often flying coach even while serving as Mayor.