David Hoffmann is a renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist. As the founder and chairman of Hoffmann Family of Companies, he oversees a family-owned network of enterprises that employs over 17,000 people worldwide. This network includes more than 200 distinct brands and properties spanning 30 countries.

In 1989, David Hoffmann founded DHR Global (formerly DHR International) and built it into one of the largest privately held executive search firms in the world. This remarkable success laid the foundation for the Hoffmann Family of Companies—a diversified enterprise with a private equity arm led by his son Geoff and a real estate arm led by his son Greg—which has since grown into one of the largest family offices globally.

David’s remarkable achievements, particularly given the adversities he faced growing up, earned him the Horatio Alger Award in 2023. He also received an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from the University of Central Missouri, his alma mater, where he served as the 2022 Commencement Speaker.

David has been featured on the Forbes Billionaires List for four consecutive years. Beyond business, the Hoffmanns are deeply committed to giving back. Few places reflect David and Jerri Hoffmann’s philanthropic legacy more vividly than Naples, Florida, where their generous contributions have played a vital role in revitalizing and enriching the community. Their impact can be seen across a wide range of initiatives, including:

• The Naples Players at Sugden Community Theatre: A $500,000 contribution to the renovation of this beloved 45,000-square-foot theatre in downtown Naples, ensuring it remains a vibrant cultural landmark.
• Naples Botanical Garden: A $1 million donation funded the creation of the “Hoffmann Lawn,” a versatile space featuring a soundstage. This venue showcases performances by local musicians and special event programs, solidifying its reputation as one of Naples’ premier outdoor concert venues.

• Naples Zoo: A $1 million donation supported the Hoffmann Family of Companies Courtyard, part of the Finding Florida Entrance and Visitor Complex. This contribution enhances the zoo as both a cherished community resource and a hub for education.

• Neighborhood Health Clinic of Naples: An ongoing commitment to supporting vital healthcare services for underserved members of the community.

• Naples Children & Education Foundation: An impactful $2 million donation, including a significant allocation for the construction of the foundation’s new headquarters, aimed at furthering opportunities for children and education.

• Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples: Supportive efforts to foster creativity and learning opportunities for young minds within the community.

• Florida Gulf Coast University: A $250,000 donation to the university’s School of Resort & Hospitality Management, funding the Hoffmann Family of Companies Wine Laboratory to advance education and innovation in the field.

• Naples Chamber of Commerce: A $100,000 donation to the Greater Naples Chamber of Commerce, reinforcing their commitment to supporting local businesses and economic growth in Southwest Florida.

• Naples High School: A generous contribution to renovating the school’s scoreboard, enhancing its facilities and solidifying the Hoffmann family’s role as a proud sponsor and dedicated community partner committed to supporting local education and athletics.

• Additional in-kind support to Florida Gulf Coast University athletics, donating Hertz Arena for the FGCU hockey team and Old Corkscrew Golf Course for the FGCU golf team, helping student-athletes train and compete at top-tier facilities.

David and Jerri first met as high school sweethearts in rural Missouri and have shared more than 50 wonderful years together. They are proud parents of three children and doting grandparents to thirteen.