Who is Greg Abel? Everything to know about the man set to succeed Warren Buffett at Berkshire Hathaway

Greg Abel is a Canadian businessman who is also the chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway Energy, a holding company and subsidiary of the multinational conglomerate Berkshire Hathaway Inc. Additionally, he is also the vice-chairman of the non-insurance operations of Berkshire Hathaway. He has been holding this position for more than seven years to date.

The American investor and philanthropist, Warren Buffett, who is also currently the chairman and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, has announced the heir of the company on May 3, 2025. Buffett has served as the company's CEO for more than five decades and has decided that it is time to pass on the torch to someone else. Abel, who has been working with Buffett for more than two decades, is set to take on the role at the end of 2025.

Keep reading to learn more about Berkshire Hathaway's next CEO.

Greg Abel's career history and highlights with Berkshire Hathaway

Greg Abel, 62, started his career with Berkshire Hathaway in 1999, when his previous company (CalEnergy) acquired MidAmerican Energy. Towards the end of the year, Berkshire Hathaway took control of the company and renamed it Berkshire Hathaway Energy in 2014. Before that, Abel was already appointed by the company as CEO in 2008.

As the years progressed, Abel's role in the company progressed as well. In 2014, he was named as Berkshire Hathaway Energy's vice chairman for non-insurance operations and was a part of Berkshire's board of directors.

Other positions Abel held included vice chairman of Edison Electric Institute, director of AEGIS Limited, Nuclear Electric Insurance Limited, Kraft Heinz, and more. Abel was also extremely interested in hockey and holds the position as director of the Hockey Canada Foundation, as well as the Mid-Iowa Council Boy Scouts of America.

Greg Abel's hard work and skills have earned him Warren Buffett's trust. By 2021, everyone knew that Abel was in line for the position of CEO for Berkshire Hathaway. It was also confirmed by the current CEO, a.k.a. Buffett.

On May 3, 2025, Warren Buffett gave an official statement:

"The time has arrived where Greg should become the chief executive officer of the company at year end."

This came as no surprise to Abel's colleagues. Ron Olson, who is a member of the Berkshire Board, also said:

"Greg is ready. I have no doubt about that. We’ve known if for a long time."

Greg Abel's journey from a geothermal electricity producer to becoming the CEO of one of the most influential conglomerates in the world is a testament to his hard work and dedication. After more than two decades at Berkshire Hathaway, Abel is writing himself a new chapter in terms of his career and building upon the legacy of his long-time friend and mentor, Warren Buffett.

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