Hasso Plattner, recognized as Sir Hasso Plattner KCMG, stands as a pioneering figure in the world of technology and philanthropy. His life’s tale, filled with significant achievements, resonates as an inspiring narrative. Zatrun.com has meticulously explored the life and accomplishments of this distinguished individual.
Early Life and Roots of Excellence
Born on 21st January 1944 in Berlin, Hasso Plattner’s journey commenced during the tumultuous years of the Second World War. His parents, German ophthalmologist Horst Plattner and his wife, nurtured his early years. Hasso Plattner’s formative years took shape in Bavaria, Germany. His academic journey began at the University of Potsdam, where he set the foundation for his future endeavors.
In the realm of technology, Hasso Plattner etched his name in history as one of the co-founders of SAP SE. The year 1972 marked the birth of SAP, with Plattner and his co-founders leading the charge. In 2003, at the age of 60, he stepped down from his role as co-chief executive and took on the position of Chairman of the company’s supervisory board. His influence on the company’s governance was profound. He was instrumental in the appointment of co-CEOs Jennifer Morgan and Christian Klein in 2019, ushering in a new era for the tech giant.
Hasso Plattner’s commitment to SAP extended to his shareholdings. He consistently reduced his stake in SAP over the years. As of 2020, he remained the company’s largest individual shareholder, owning a 5.89% stake.
Hasso Plattner: A Visionary Philanthropist
Beyond his tech empire, Hasso Plattner established the non-profit Hasso Plattner Institute (HPI) in 1998. At HPI, he holds the position of Chair of Enterprise Platform and Integration Concepts, alongside being a Professor of Enterprise Systems.
In 2015, he introduced the Hasso Plattner Foundation, which extends its support to various causes including education, art, culture, and conservation. The foundation’s headquarters found its home at Villa Wunderkind in Potsdam, a place steeped in history and artistry.
Hasso Plattner is not just a tech mogul but a man with diverse passions. His love for yachting led his maxi yacht, maxZ86, to set records at the Transpacific Yacht Race. Plattner’s golfing interests materialized in the ownership of the Fancourt Golf Estate, featuring three championship courses designed by Gary Player. The Links of Fancourt hosted the 2003 Presidents Cup, a testament to his influence in the world of golf.
Dedicated to the Community
A man of philanthropic spirit, Hasso Plattner signed The Giving Pledge in 2013. The Hasso Plattner Foundation, established in the same year, plays a pivotal role in supporting education, art, culture, and conservation. Since 2017, the foundation has been headquartered at Villa Wunderkind in Potsdam, carrying forward Plattner’s legacy.
In the fight against HIV/AIDS, Plattner’s commitment shines. He actively supports the universities of KwaZulu Natal and Cape Town, contributing to research and prevention programs. His notable donation for the Isombululo program significantly impacted the lives of those affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
A Patron of Arts and Culture
Hasso Plattner’s contributions to the world of arts and culture are as profound as his technological achievements. He contributed more than €20 million towards the reconstruction of the Stadtschloss in Potsdam, a historic architectural marvel.
In the world of visual arts, Plattner joined forces with art dealer Guy Wildenstein to establish the Wildenstein Plattner Institute. This foundation is dedicated to advancing art historical scholarship, fostering accessibility, cataloging, and digitization of primary sources. In 2022, he inaugurated Das Minsk, a private museum in Potsdam, focused on East German artists active after the fall of the Berlin Wall.
Post his retirement from SAP, Hasso Plattner emerged as a significant benefactor in technological research. The Plattner Institute for software systems engineering, founded in 1998, is at the forefront of his philanthropic endeavors. His commitment to the HPI, both in Potsdam and Palo Alto, California, has exceeded €200 million.
Additionally, he founded the Plattner Institute of Design at Stanford University with a generous donation of US$35 million. His commitment to the advancement of user-friendly innovations is evident in his support for various educational institutions.
Hasso Plattner: Recognition and Honorary Degrees
Hasso Plattner’s exceptional contributions have garnered recognition and honorary degrees. His alma mater, the University of Potsdam, awarded him an honorary doctorate in 2002 and an honorary professorship in 2004. The Saarland University, Saarbrücken, also bestowed upon him an honorary doctorate (1990) and an honorary professorship in Information Systems (1994). A legacy of technological innovation, philanthropy, and support for the arts and culture, Plattner’s journey stands as a testament to the profound impact one individual can have on the world.
