POSITION
Founder
COMPANY
COUNTRY
United Kingdom
AGE
66 years
Website
SCENE
What makes Sir Rumi Verjee a Global Shaker?
Lord Rumi Verjee CBE is a Ugandan born self-made entrepreneur, Liberal Democrat member of the House of Lords, and one of the UK’s most generous donators.
Lord Verjee was forced to move to the UK after most of his families assets were seized under Idi Amin’s regime in 1972.
His rise to wealth took off when he bought the rights to the Dominos Pizza franchise. The then 27-year-old fearlessly approached Domino’s founder Tom Monaghan at a conference in the US and persuaded him to sell the franchising rights to the pizza chain the UK. Verjee launched the chain in Britain which is now the employer to over 20,000 people. In 1989 he sold his stake in the firm and from 1993 to 1997 he co-owned Watford Football Club alongside Elton John. He also owns Thomas Goode, the china and silverware store that supplies the royal household.
Today he has many philanthropic contributions, including his work supporting humanitarian efforts, innovation and knowledge building through his own Rumi Foundation. Its work is largely focussed in the UK but has also supported projects in India, East Africa and South America.
Verjee also supported the launch of WE Charity, formerly known as Free the Children, becoming Chair in 2014. Annually he co-chairs We Day, with Holly Branson, an initiative which encourages children to take a more active role in supporting their own communities.
In 2009 Verjee was awarded a CBE for his charitable support and contributions.
Last updated: April 17, 2019
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