5 Facts You Might Not Know About Warren Buffett's Successor Greg Abel

Warren Buffett officially named Greg Abel as his successor to become CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, Inc. BRK BRK at the annual shareholder meeting last Saturday. Buffett said he will remain chairman of the board, ensuring continuity and mentorship during the leadership transition. 

Abel is notably private and has rarely granted interviews to the business media. Even as he ascended to one of the most prominent corporate roles in America, he has maintained a low public profile. 

Here are some of the lesser-known facts that reveal the man behind the CEO title, and how he quietly became one of the most influential figures in American business.

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Humble Beginnings: Abel was born to a working-class family in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, and has described his upbringing as family-oriented and rooted in a traditional, supportive environment. 

He took on odd jobs like filling fire extinguishers, delivering advertising flyers to homes and collecting used bottles for change. Abel's modest upbringing helped to shape his work ethic and grounded personality. 

Major Hockey Fan: Outside the boardroom, Abel is a huge hockey enthusiast. He currently serves as an assistant volunteer coach for his son's hockey team in Des Moines, Iowa, reflecting his continued connection to his Canadian roots and his commitment to family

Stanley Cup Connection: Not only is Abel an avid ice hockey fan, but he also has a Stanley Cup connection. His uncle, Sid Abel, was a Hall of Fame hockey player who won the Stanley Cup three times with the Detroit Red Wings in 1943, 1950 and 1952. Sid Abel also coached and served as the team's general manager. 

Warren Buffett's Neighbor?: In the 1990s, Abel lived just a few blocks away from Buffett in Omaha, Nebraska, for six years. Interestingly, the two never met during that time despite their proximity. 

Not Moving to Omaha: Even as incoming CEO, Abel plans to continue living in Des Moines, Iowa, where Berkshire Hathaway Energy is based, rather than relocating to Berkshire's Omaha headquarters. 

Abel played a key role in transforming Berkshire Hathaway Energy into a major industry player through a series of acquisitions and making it one of Berkshire's "four jewels." He is set to take over as CEO of Berkshire Hathaway on Jan. 1, 2026. 

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Image created using artificial intelligence via Midjourney.