Peter Georgescu

Peter Georgescu is a prominent business leader and philanthropist, currently serving as Vice Chairman Emeritus at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital. He is also the Chairman Emeritus of Young & Rubicam Inc., where he held the position of CEO from 1994 to 2000, becoming the first chairman of the company born outside the United States. His extensive career spans over 40 years in top management roles across various regions, significantly influencing integrated communications strategies within the advertising industry.13

Georgescu has held board positions at several public companies, including Levi Strauss and International Flavors & Fragrances. He is actively involved in promoting stakeholder capitalism and addressing income inequality in America. His recent book, Capitalists, Arise!, emphasizes the need for businesses to adapt to changing societal expectations.12

Born in Romania in 1939, Georgescu immigrated to the United States in 1954, arriving with limited English skills and a fifth-grade education. He overcame these challenges to graduate from Princeton University and earn an MBA from Stanford Business School. His commitment to education is reflected in his involvement with various educational organizations, including A Better Chance and the Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans.12

In addition to his corporate achievements, Georgescu has received honorary doctorates from the University of Alabama and Cornell College and was awarded the Ellis Island Medal of Honor for his contributions to society.1