Howard Buffett has assumed the role of chairman at Berkshire Hathaway Inc., succeeding his father, Warren Buffett, who transitions to chairman emeritus after roughly six decades at the conglomerate. The younger Buffett, who is 71 years old, is described as well-versed in corporate governance, having served on the boards of major corporations including Coca-Cola Co., FirsTier Financial, and Conagra Brands (formerly ConAgra Foods).
Despite a career that includes law enforcement and philanthropy, Howard Buffett's deep understanding of Berkshire is highlighted. He has been a Berkshire director for 33 years, which is a longer "apprenticeship" than his father served before taking the reins. While Greg Abel will continue as Chief Executive Officer, running the company's day-to-day operations, Howard's primary role will be to safeguard Berkshire's culture and values.
His diverse background includes operating a 1,500-acre family farm, holding elected office as a Douglas County, Nebraska commissioner, and serving as Sheriff and current undersheriff of Macon County, Illinois. He also runs the Howard G. Buffett Foundation, a charitable organization focused on global food security and conflict mitigation, and has published photography from conflict zones and wildlife habitats. This unconventional resume contrasts with typical corporate chairmen, yet he is seen as crucial for upholding Berkshire's long-standing principles.
