SAP Fortune Makers

Hasso Plattner
Founder, Chairman
SAP

THE MONEY: Plattner and a handful of other former IBM employees started Germany’s SAP, an enterprise software company that went public in 1988 and is now one of the world’s largest software companies, valued at nearly $180 billion. Counted a nearly 6% stake as of late last year, shares now valued at a little over $10 billion. Stepped down as CEO in 2003, still chairs the company’s advisory board.

THE INNOVATION: Instrumental in SAP opening offices in the Lido Marina Village of Newport Beach; company has been boosting its base here and is reported to be opening a second location soon. The initial office is also the home of HanaHaus, a café and community workspace founded and operated by SAP to help spark creativity. It is the second HanaHaus in the U.S., alongside a spot in Palo Alto. Plattner, who owns the San Jose Sharks, is “absolutely” happy with the Newport Beach location, and is a frequent visitor, execs told the Business Journal in June, when the offices reopened.

THE HOMES: Has multiple homes in Emerald Bay, according to trade publication Dirt. Paid close to $45 million for a two-house blufftop compound there in 2014. Not his primary residence, sources tell the Business Journal. Company officials declined to discuss whether he lives in the area.

PHILANTHROPY: His nonprofit Hasso Plattner Institute focuses on research and teaching in IT systems engineering; he’s also a member of the Giving Pledge.

WEEKEND WEALTHY
• NET WORTH: $10 billion
• SOURCE OF WEALTH: SAP stock