THE START: Co-founded Masimo medical monitoring device company in 1989. Went public in 2007 and has since grown to a valuation of more than $8B, making it the fifth largest public company in Orange County. Once called the Steve Jobs of medtech by Apple Inc. executives. Resigned as CEO in 2024 after being ousted as chairman in annual shareholder vote.
AMERICAN SUCCESS STORY: Left native Iran at age 9 when he knew only three words of English. Believed in a new way to improve accuracy of patient monitoring by using what is called adaptive signal processing. Says his technology is instrumental in helping babies avoid blindness after birth. Masimo has 500-plus patents, including more than 100 in Kiani’s name.
NEW VENTURES: Since departing Masimo, announced new venture Willow Laboratories that’s focusing on diabetes prevention with an app that lets users log their food, exercise and sleep. Originally called Cercacor Laboratories, which was spun out of Masimo in 1998 and owns license rights to many Masimo patents. Last month, was also appointed CEO of Santa Monica-based media company Like Minded Labs. One of the co-founders, Mark Kassen, also runs the video-based civic engagement platform A Starting Point with Kiani and actor Chris Evans.
THE CONNECTIONS: Long-time Democrat supporter and friend of Presidents Joe Biden and Bill Clinton. After Biden left office, he hosted his family at his ranch in Santa Ynez.
THE MONEY: Masimo stock up 33% in past year. According to 2025 proxy, Kiani still owned 4M shares, or 7.5% of company, which is now worth about $640M. His 8K acre ranch, at $50K each, alone might be worth $400M. Based on stock and real estate increases in past year, the Business Journal estimates wealth up 15%. Could jump more if his lawsuits prevail as he’s suing Masimo and directors for another $550M.
PHILANTHROPY: Has passion for children, health and poverty alleviation. Started foundation to help hospitals achieve zero preventable deaths.
QUOTABLE: “Imagine if everyone took action out of kindness…” — Kiani on X, April 25.
