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David Hoffmann Recognized on Forbes’ World Billionaires List for Fifth Straight Year

March 12, 2026

CHICAGO/NAPLES/ST. LOUIS (March 12, 2026) – Hoffmann Family of Companies (HF Companies), the family-owned private equity firm with deep roots in Chicago’s North Shore, Southwest Florida, and Greater St. Louis, is proud to announce that its Founder and Chairman, David Hoffmann, has been honored on Forbes’ prestigious 'World Billionaires' list for the fifth consecutive year. Hoffmann ranked No. 1,750 globally in 2025 and climbed to No. 1,571 this year, with a net worth of more than $2.6 billion. Within the United States, he is ranked No. 542.

Hoffmann’s entrepreneurial journey began in 1989 with the founding of Chicago-headquartered DHR Global, a leading global executive search and leadership advisory firm. His real estate revitalization efforts, spearheaded through Hoffmann Commercial Real Estate (HCRE), encompass properties in Naples, Fla; Winnetka, Ill.; Augusta, Mo.; Mackinac Island, Mich.; and Avon, Colo.—collectively valued at over $1.5 billion.

Beyond its real estate portfolio, HF Companies has sustained significant growth since the publication of the 2025 Forbes list, acquiring more than 12 new companies across its primary sectors of focus. This list excludes real estate acquisitions:

2025 proved to be a banner year for Hoffmann Family of Companies in other ways than acquisitions. December marked one of the firm’s most defining milestones with the announcement of the family’s intent to acquire a controlling interest in the Pittsburgh Penguins, pending NHL approval. At year-end, Hoffmann led a $50 million strategic equity investment in Lee Enterprises (NASDAQ: LEE) and subsequently assumed the role of Chairman of the Company. Lee operates in 72 key markets across America. Together, Lee Enterprises and Hoffmann Media Group now represent the second largest local news organization in the United States, with more than 140 local news publications and approximately 400 specialty print publications.

Another highlight of 2025 was the inaugural Hoffmann Family Equity Summit, held in St. Louis. The gathering brought together leaders across Hoffmann industries to deepen relationships, exchange insights, and experience the strength of the firm’s Missouri footprint—from Miss Augusta and Mount Pleasant Estates to the newly remodeled Pierre Laclede Center. With more than 200 leaders, founders, banking partners, and teammates in attendance, the Summit underscored the energy, collaboration, and shared purpose that continue to define the exceptional portfolio built by Hoffmann and his family.

The Hoffmann family’s philanthropic endeavors span a wide array of causes, including healthcare, youth development, and the arts. They provide financial support and actively serve on the boards of renowned nonprofits such as the Boys & Girls Club of Collier County, Breakthrough T1D (formerly JDRF), Brightpoint Chicago (formerly Children’s Home & Aid), the Everglades Foundation, the Field Museum (Chicago), the Horatio Alger Association, Joffrey Ballet (Chicago), the Naples Children & Education Foundation, Naples Players Community Theatre, the Naples Zoo, Type 1 Timer (T1T) Hockey, the University of Chicago Kovler Diabetes Center, and the Washington County 4-H Club (Missouri).

To see Hoffmann’s Forbes profile, visit forbes.com/profile/david-hoffmann. To see the complete ranking, visit forbes.com/billionaires. For additional updates on Hoffmann Family of Companies, visit www.hfcompanies.com.

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About Hoffmann Family of Companies:

Hoffmann Family of Companies is a multi-vertical, family-owned private equity firm consisting of over 125 global brands and employs more than 22,000 employees with businesses located in 30 countries and 400 locations around the world. Hoffmann Family of Companies’ verticals include Agriculture, Aviation & Transportation, Financial & Professional Services, Hospitality & Entertainment, Manufacturing, Marine, Media & Marketing and Real Estate. For more information visit HFCompanies.com

For More Information: [email protected]

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