Berkshire Hathaway is entering a new era. With Warren Buffett announcing his retirement at the end of 2025, all eyes are now on Greg Abel, the quietly influential executive who will take over as CEO of one of the world’s most powerful conglomerates.
From Alberta to Omaha
Greg Abel, 62, hails from Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. A trained accountant, he graduated from the University of Alberta in 1984 with a degree in commerce and began his career at PricewaterhouseCoopers in San Francisco. He later joined CalEnergy, a renewable energy company that evolved into MidAmerican Energy and was eventually acquired by Berkshire Hathaway.
Abel rose steadily through the ranks, becoming CEO of Berkshire Hathaway Energy in 2008. He played a crucial role in expanding the company’s portfolio in renewable energy and infrastructure.
Buffett’s Right-Hand Man
In 2018, Warren Buffett named Abel Vice Chairman of Berkshire’s non-insurance operations. That move signaled a strong vote of confidence from Buffett himself, who later confirmed in 2021 that Abel would be his eventual successor.
Abel has managed a broad swath of Berkshire’s businesses—from railroads to retail—earning a reputation for disciplined leadership, operational expertise, and quiet competence. Unlike Buffett, Abel is not known for public appearances or media interviews. But within the Berkshire community, his credibility and decision-making have long been respected.
Leading After a Legend
Taking over from a titan like Buffett is no easy task. Abel inherits a company with more than $900 billion in assets and a unique decentralized structure that gives individual managers wide autonomy. Though he lacks Buffett’s legendary investment profile, many believe Abel’s operational strength and steady leadership will ensure continuity for Berkshire Hathaway.
Buffett, now 94, gave his successor a strong endorsement during the 2025 shareholder meeting, telling investors that the company is in “very good hands.” With over $347 billion in cash reserves and a globally diversified portfolio, Berkshire is well-positioned for its next chapter under Abel’s stewardship.
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