Explore the rise of Greg Abel, Warren Buffett’s chosen successor at Berkshire Hathaway. Learn about his leadership style, career, and vision for the future.
Introduction
Greg Abel, a Canadian-born businessman, is poised to succeed Warren Buffett as the CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, the multinational conglomerate known for its diverse portfolio and decentralized management style. Abel’s appointment marks a significant transition as Buffett, now 94, prepares to step back from day-to-day operations.
Early Life and Career
Born on June 1, 1962, in Edmonton, Alberta, Greg Abel grew up in a working-class family. He worked various jobs during his youth, including distributing flyers and returning bottles for money. Abel earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Alberta in 1984 and became a certified public accountant. He began his professional career at PricewaterhouseCoopers in San Francisco before joining CalEnergy in 1992. CalEnergy later became MidAmerican Energy, which was acquired by Berkshire Hathaway in 1999. Abel became CEO of MidAmerican in 2008, and the company was renamed Berkshire Hathaway Energy in 2014.
Rise at Berkshire Hathaway
In January 2018, Abel was appointed vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway, overseeing non-insurance operations. This role positioned him as Buffett’s eventual successor. Abel’s leadership at Berkshire Hathaway Energy was instrumental in expanding the company’s renewable energy investments and driving sustainable growth. His operational expertise and strategic foresight have been key factors in his ascension within the company.
Leadership Style and Vision
Abel is known for his analytical approach and attention to detail. He is described as a “numbers guy” who can quickly assess a business’s financial health. Despite his low profile, Abel’s leadership is characterized by decisiveness and a commitment to operational excellence. He has been instrumental in maintaining Berkshire Hathaway’s decentralized management structure, allowing subsidiary companies to operate independently while adhering to the conglomerate’s core principles.
At the 2025 Berkshire Hathaway annual meeting, Abel emphasized the importance of preserving the company’s culture, stating, “We have a very special company in Berkshire, but it’s that culture that makes it special, and that’s not going to change.”
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Abel faces the challenge of leading Berkshire Hathaway into a new era while maintaining the principles that have made the company successful. Shareholders and analysts are keen to see how he navigates issues such as sustainability, technological disruption, and market volatility. His focus on long-term growth and operational efficiency will be critical in ensuring the company’s continued success.
Conclusion
Greg Abel’s appointment as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway represents a significant leadership transition. With his deep understanding of the company’s operations and commitment to its core values, Abel is well-positioned to lead Berkshire Hathaway into the future. As he steps into the role, investors and industry observers will be watching closely to see how he shapes the next chapter of one of the world’s most successful conglomerates.
