Biography of Naomi Milgrom: Founder and CEO of Sussan Group -Entrepreneur

Biography of Naomi Milgrom: Founder and CEO of Sussan Group -Entrepreneur

Biography of Naomi Milgrom:

A Storied Beginning

Born in Melbourne in 1952, Naomi Milgrom grew up in a household rich in entrepreneurial spirit. Her parents, Marc and Eva Besen, were retail magnates, while her maternal grandmother, Fay Gandel, began her journey as a Polish seamstress who opened a lingerie store in 1939. Her father, a Jewish refugee from Romania, arrived in Australia at 23, laying the foundation for a family steeped in ambition and innovation. Naomi’s uncle, John Gandel, would later become a billionaire property developer, further cementing the family’s legacy.

An Education Shaped by Culture

Naomi’s early education took place in the vibrant Melbourne suburb of St Kilda. She attended Mount Scopus Memorial College and Firbank Girls' Grammar School, which nurtured her intellectual curiosity. She later pursued languages at Monash University and earned a Diploma of Education from the University of New South Wales, equipping her with a strong foundation for her varied career.

A Career in Teaching

Naomi’s professional journey began as a special education teacher in Sydney, where she worked with autistic and schizophrenic children. This four-year tenure shaped her compassionate outlook, but her ambitions extended beyond the classroom.

Stepping into Publishing

In 1977, Naomi and her first husband, Alfred Milgrom, co-founded Melbourne House, a publishing company with offices in Melbourne and London. They ventured into the emerging field of computer books and later co-founded BEAM Software, a video game studio that became a pioneer in Australia’s gaming industry.

Biography of Naomi Milgrom: Founder and CEO of Sussan Group -Entrepreneur #marketing and strategic planning manager#startup#Sussan Group story

Joining the Family Business

Naomi joined her family’s retail business, Sussan, in 1988 as the marketing and strategic planning manager. Under her leadership, the company expanded significantly, acquiring Suzanne Grae in 1991 and Sportsgirl in 1999. By 2003, Naomi bought out her parents and siblings, taking full ownership of the business and establishing ARJ Group Holdings, which owns and manages all three brands.

Building a Fashion Empire

Under Naomi’s stewardship, Sussan, Suzanne Grae, and Sportsgirl have become iconic names in women’s fashion. Her keen entrepreneurial acumen has turned ARJ Group Holdings into an international retail powerhouse, recognized for its innovative approach and commitment to quality.

A Personal Life in Focus

Naomi has three children from her marriage to Alfred Milgrom. She resides in Middle Park, Melbourne, and owns properties in sought-after locations such as Bondi Beach and Byron Bay, reflecting her success and love for coastal living.

A Billion-Dollar Visionary

In 2018, Naomi was listed as Australia’s eighth-richest woman, with a net worth exceeding A$500 million. By 2023, her fortune had grown to A$1.15 billion, a testament to her business acumen and resilience.

Championing Philanthropy

Naomi is deeply committed to philanthropy, focusing on mental health and cultural innovation. Through the Naomi Milgrom Foundation, she promotes initiatives that enrich communities, such as architecture and design programs. Her flagship project, MPavilion, has transformed Melbourne’s cultural landscape by hosting free talks, workshops, and installations since 2013.

Supporting Environmental and Social Causes

Beyond fashion and culture, Naomi’s family business, Tripple, led by her children Adam, Rebecca, and Jake, supports causes like environmental sustainability and human rights. Their headquarters, Sanders Place, is an architectural marvel designed to use minimal energy, exemplifying their dedication to eco-conscious innovation.

Revitalizing Spaces for Art and Community

Naomi’s philanthropic endeavors also extend to urban revitalization. Projects like the $140 million redevelopment of the Geelong Arts Centre highlight her dedication to fostering artistic expression and community engagement.

A Legacy of Cultural Leadership

Through her foundation and business ventures, Naomi has become a cultural leader, celebrated for her contributions to architecture, design, and community well-being. Her efforts have earned widespread acclaim, inspiring others to follow her example.

An Enduring Impact

Naomi Milgrom’s life is a story of determination, innovation, and generosity. From her beginnings in Melbourne to her current role as a billionaire entrepreneur and philanthropist, she continues to shape industries and inspire change, leaving an indelible mark on Australia and beyond.

Timeline for story

1952: Naomi Milgrom is born in Melbourne, Australia.

1939: Maternal grandmother Fay Gandel opens a lingerie store in Melbourne.

1977: Co-founds Melbourne House and BEAM Software with Alfred Milgrom.

1988: Joins the family retail business, Sussan, as marketing and strategic planning manager.

1991: Acquires Suzanne Grae as part of Sussan’s expansion.

1999: Acquires Sportsgirl, further strengthening the retail empire.

2003: Buys out family members and establishes ARJ Group Holdings.

2013: Launches MPavilion through the Naomi Milgrom Foundation.

2018: Listed as Australia’s eighth-richest woman with a net worth of A$500 million.

2023: Net worth grows to A$1.15 billion, reflecting her entrepreneurial success.

Biography of Naomi Milgrom: Founder and CEO of Sussan Group -Entrepreneur #marketing and strategic planning manager#startup#Sussan Group story