Hoffmann’s entrepreneurial roots trace back to 1989, when he founded DHR International (now DHR Global), a leading global executive search and leadership advisory firm, and Jobplex, a search firm focused on emerging leaders. With a global headquarters in Chicago, DHR Global/Jobplex is a leading, privately held provider of executive search, leadership consulting, and emerging leader search solutions. The firm has expertise in more than 20 industries and functional areas, delivered through consultants in more than 50 markets spanning 22 countries.
The Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned company and a multi-generational family business with more than 9,000 employees and over 200 distinct brands and properties. Since 2023, the firm has acquired or founded ten companies, including Besse Forest Products Group (MI), CDN Controls Ltd. (Alberta, Canada), Doonan Specialized Trailer (KS), JED Transportation (MO), Maurer Publishing (MI), MNH (UK), RMC DMC (CO), Wayne Manufacturing (IN), Young Harris Water Sports & RV (SC) and iFoundMyDoctor.com (FL).
His real estate revitalization endeavors, managed through Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate, include more than 30 properties in Winnetka and the North Shore. The portfolio also includes properties in Naples, Florida; Augusta, Missouri; Mackinac Island, Michigan; and Avon, Colorado—totaling assets worth over $1 billion.
David and the Hoffmann family actively support causes close to their hearts. Some of their notable Chicago-based philanthropic support includes JDRF (a major diabetes research institution), Children’s Home & Aid Society, and the Joffrey Ballet.
In 2023, David received the prestigious Horatio Alger Award for overcoming adversity and an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from UCM. David and his wife, Jerri, have been married for over 50 years and maintain homes in Winnetka, IL, and Naples, FL. Their legacy extends to three children and 12 grandchildren. Sons Geoff and Greg now serve as co-chief executives of the Hoffmann Family of Companies.
To see David Hoffmann’s Forbes profile, visit forbes.com/profile/david-hoffmann. To see the complete ranking, visit forbes.com/billionaires.