Famous Austrian Business People

Dietrich Mateschitz was a prominent Austrian businessman known for co-founding Red Bull GmbH and owning a significant stake in the company. With a background in marketing, he played a pivotal role in transforming the Thai energy drink Krating Daeng into the globally recognized brand, Red Bull. Mateschitz successfully launched Red Bull in Austria in 1987 and expanded the company's reach internationally. His business ventures extended to sports, with acquisitions and founding of various successful teams, notably Red Bull Racing in Formula One and football clubs such as FC Red Bull Salzburg and RB Leipzig.

Robert Bosch was a prominent German industrialist, engineer, and inventor known for founding Robert Bosch GmbH. He revolutionized the automotive industry with his inventions, including the magneto ignition system and the spark plug. Bosch focused on improving efficiency and quality in manufacturing processes, emphasizing the importance of innovation and social responsibility. His company became a global leader in automotive technology, household appliances, and industrial tools. Bosch's legacy continues to inspire advancements in engineering and business practices worldwide.

Frank Stronach is an Austro-Canadian billionaire businessman and politician known for founding Magna International, a prominent automotive parts company. He also established Granite Real Estate and the Stronach Group. With a significant estimated net worth, he was recognized as one of the wealthiest Canadians. Stronach ventured into Austrian politics, advocating for a flat tax system and debt reduction through the Stronach Institute and founding the political party Team Stronach for Austria. However, in 2024, he faced serious legal issues, including multiple charges related to sexual offenses.

Emilie Louise Flöge was an Austrian fashion designer and businesswoman known for her pioneering work in the fashion industry. She established herself as a prominent figure through her innovative designs and creative vision. Flöge's dedication to her craft and keen eye for style led to the success of her fashion business. Her collaboration with prominent artists and her unique approach to design set her apart in the industry, making her a respected and influential figure in the world of fashion during her time.

Ferdinand Piëch was a prominent Austrian business magnate, engineer, and executive known for his influential leadership at Volkswagen Group. He spearheaded the development of groundbreaking technologies such as TDI and the Quattro all-wheel drive system, contributing significantly to Volkswagen's success in the car industry. Piëch orchestrated the integration of various renowned automotive brands under the VW Group umbrella, elevating their reputation and status. His strategic vision and engineering expertise played a key role in transforming Volkswagen into a large conglomerate, earning him accolades as a pioneering figure in the automobile industry.

Friedrich Alexander Maria "Fritz" Mandl was the chairman of Hirtenberger Patronen-Fabrik, an Austrian armaments firm founded by his father. A prominent fascist, he was involved in Austrofascism and Italian varieties, opposing Nazism. Mandl supported the Austrian nationalist militia and supplied them with weapons. He inherited a weapons factory and sought to maintain contacts with Hermann Göring's office to supply Germany with iron. His professional life revolved around leading the armaments firm, engaging in fascist activities, and supplying weapons during a tumultuous political period.

Maurice de Hirsch was a prominent German Jewish-French financier and philanthropist known for setting up charitable foundations to support Jewish education and improve the conditions of oppressed European Jews. He founded the Jewish Colonization Association, which facilitated significant Jewish immigration to Argentina. Through his philanthropic efforts, Maurice de Hirsch played a crucial role in providing opportunities for Jewish communities to thrive and find refuge in new lands, leaving a lasting impact on the Jewish diaspora.

Louise Piech, daughter of Porsche founder Ferdinand Porsche, played a pivotal role in preserving the family brand during wartime by establishing Porsche Konstruktionen GesmbH alongside her brother, Ferry Porsche. As a director of the company, she demonstrated exceptional leadership and business acumen. Her strategic decisions and brave actions ensured the survival of the Porsche brand and its legacy, securing its future success. Louise Piech's contributions to the automotive industry and her determination in safeguarding the family business have left a lasting impact on Porsche's history.

Sir Peter Abeles was a prominent Australian transportation magnate who established himself as a successful businessman after fleeing his homeland of Hungary. He made significant contributions to the transportation industry in Australia and played a key role in the growth and success of various transportation companies. His achievements in business led to him being knighted in 1972, recognizing his outstanding contributions to the economy and society. Abeles' legacy as a visionary leader in the transportation sector continues to be remembered and respected.

Albert Salomon Anselm von Rothschild was a prominent banker in Austria-Hungary and a member of the prestigious Rothschild banking family. He played a pivotal role in the financial sector, owning businesses such as Creditanstalt and the Northern Railway. His professional endeavors were marked by strategic investments and significant contributions to the growth of the Austrian economy. Known for his business acumen and leadership skills, he left a lasting legacy in the banking industry, establishing himself as a respected figure in the financial world.

Nadja Swarovski is a prominent businesswoman known for her significant contributions to the Swarovski family company. Joining in 1995, she became the first female member of the executive board, overseeing global brand strategy and communications. Under her leadership, the business achieved impressive financial success, with a turnover of approximately €3.5 billion in 2017. She also played key roles in the Swarovski Foundation and the Swarovski Waterschool program. Nadja Swarovski left the company at the end of 2021, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the business world.

Claus Josef Riedel, an heir to Riedel Crystal, revolutionized the glassmaking industry with his innovative contributions. He pioneered the creation of the world's first gourmet glasses, catering to the nuances of wine appreciation. Riedel further expanded his impact by introducing a comprehensive range of wine glasses designed for specific types of wine, enhancing the sensory experience for connoisseurs. His groundbreaking work earned him numerous accolades, highlighting his exceptional talent and dedication to advancing the art of glassmaking.

Hikmet Ersek is a Turkish businessman known for his prominent roles in the corporate world. Serving as the former CEO of Western Union, he has demonstrated strong leadership and strategic acumen in guiding the global financial services company. Additionally, Ersek has taken on the role of Honorary Consul of the Republic of Austria in Denver, covering regions in the United States. His professional journey reflects a commitment to fostering international relations and driving business growth across diverse sectors.

Count Moritz von Fries was an influential figure in Austria, known for his successful career as a banker and his significant contributions as a patron of the arts. He played a key role in the financial sector, establishing himself as a prominent banker. Additionally, his support for the arts helped foster cultural development in the region, making him a respected and admired figure in both the financial and artistic communities. His legacy as a nobleman, banker, and patron of the arts continues to be remembered and celebrated.

Samson Wertheimer was a prominent figure in Hungarian and Moravian Jewish communities, serving as chief rabbi of Hungary and Moravia, as well as rabbi of Eisenstadt. He was a skilled financier, acting as a court Jew and Shtadlan for Austrian Emperor Leopold I. Wertheimer played a key role in financing the Spanish War of Succession on behalf of the Empire, while also supporting scholarly endeavors such as the printing of the Babylonian Talmud in Frankfurt. Known as the "Judenkaiser" (Jewish emperor), Wertheimer's influence extended across Europe through his family's established branches.