Antony Ressler, born on October 12, 1960, is a prominent American billionaire businessman whose career has left an indelible mark on the world of finance and sports. Zatrun.com delves into the remarkable life and achievements of this entrepreneur, highlighting his significant contributions to the business world, philanthropy, and the realm of sports ownership.
Antony Ressler: Early Life and Education
Antony Ressler was born in 1960 into a Jewish family, the son of Dorothy and Ira Ressler. His father, a World War II veteran and attorney, instilled valuable principles and work ethic in Antony from a young age.
Ressler’s educational journey led him to Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Foreign Service (BSFS). He furthered his academic pursuits at Columbia Business School, graduating with an MBA. These formative years laid the foundation for his future endeavors.
The Birth of a Financial Empire
Antony Ressler’s ascent in the world of finance began at Drexel Burnham Lambert. He started his career in the high yield bond department and eventually reached the position of Senior Vice President with responsibilities that included overseeing the new issue/syndicate desk. However, in the wake of the Drexel Burnham Lambert collapse, Ressler embarked on a new chapter in his career.
In 1990, alongside notable figures like Leon Black and John Hannan, Ressler co-founded Apollo Global Management, a private equity firm that would go on to achieve significant success. This venture marked a turning point in his career, and the company played a pivotal role in shaping the world of finance. Notably, in 1997, Ressler co-founded Ares Management, solidifying his influence in the financial sector.
Philanthropic Endeavors
Antony Ressler’s commitment to philanthropy is reflected in his active involvement in numerous charitable organizations. He serves as a member of the executive committee on the board of directors of the Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.
Additionally, he holds the position of finance chair and is a member of the executive committee at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Ressler’s dedication extends to education, as he serves as a board member of Campbell Hall Episcopal School in Studio City, California.
Moreover, he is one of the founding members of the board and finance chair of the Painted Turtle Camp, an organization that arranges camping trips for children with chronic and life-threatening illnesses. His support for military veterans through The Greatest Generations Foundation exemplifies his commitment to giving back to the community.
A Passion for Sports Ownership
Antony Ressler’s interests extend beyond finance. In 2005, he was part of an investment group that successfully acquired Major League Baseball’s Milwaukee Brewers, led by Mark Attanasio. However, his most notable sports ownership venture came in June 2015 when he became the principal owner of the Atlanta Hawks, a prominent National Basketball Association (NBA) team.
This acquisition marked a significant moment in the world of professional sports ownership. Ressler formed a group for this endeavor, including former NBA player Grant Hill, Sara Blakely, Jesse Itzler, Steven Price, and Rick Schnall. The purchase solidified his presence in the world of sports, and it was ultimately sold to him for $850 million.
Personal Life and Family
On June 16, 1989, Antony Ressler married actress Jami Gertz, and they reside in Los Angeles. The couple is blessed with three sons: Oliver Jordan Ressler (born 1992), Nicholas Simon Ressler (born 1995), and Theo Ressler (born 1998).
Their contributions to education are recognized through the Gertz-Ressler High Academy, a member of Alliance College-Ready Public Schools. Additionally, Antony and his family are members of the Wilshire Boulevard Temple.
Notably, Ressler’s family ties include his sister, Debra Ressler, who is married to Apollo co-founder Leon Black, and his brother, Richard Ressler, who is a principal and founder of CIM Investment Management.
Antony Ressler’s life is a testament to his unwavering commitment to business excellence, philanthropy, and a passion for sports ownership. His journey has had a profound impact on the financial and sports industries, leaving a lasting legacy.
