Biography of Robert Herjavec: Businessman, Investor, and Television personality
Biography of Robert Herjavec:
Early Life: A Journey from Poverty to Possibilities
Robert Herjavec was born in 1962 in what was then
Yugoslavia, now Croatia. Growing up, he lived on his uncle's farm in the
village of Varazdin. Despite the family's financial struggles, Herjavec
remembers his childhood fondly, filled with love, support, and encouragement.
His father, who often faced persecution for speaking out against the communist
government, decided to move the family to Canada in 1970 to escape the regime's
restrictions.
Immigrating to Canada: A New Beginning
At the age of eight, Robert’s family left Yugoslavia with
just a suitcase and $20 in their pockets. They traveled through Italy and
arrived in Canada, where they first lived in the basement of a family friend's
home for 18 months. Herjavec’s father found work in a factory, making only
about $76 a week, but they slowly adjusted to their new life in Toronto.
The First Steps into the Workforce
Robert didn’t start out in business. After finishing his
studies, he worked as an editing assistant at a Canadian TV station. His
ability to speak Croatian landed him a job as a field producer for the 1984
Winter Olympics in Sarajevo, Yugoslavia. This was his first taste of working on
a major international event, but it wasn’t the direction that would define his
career.
Transitioning to Technology
In 1985, Robert’s best friend mentioned a job offer at a
tech company that paid $30,000 annually, a great salary at the time. Robert
decided to apply, even though he had no prior experience in technology. To
secure the job, he offered to work for free for six months, determined to prove
himself and learn everything he could about the tech industry. During this
time, he also worked as a waiter to cover his expenses.
Climbing the Corporate Ladder
Robert’s dedication and willingness to learn paid off. Over
time, he rose through the ranks in the technology company, eventually becoming
the president. However, in 1990, he was fired, which would turn out to be a
major turning point in his career.
Becoming an Entrepreneur: The Birth of BRAK Systems
After being fired, Robert took a leap into entrepreneurship.
He partnered with Warren Avis, founder of Avis Rent a Car, to start a business.
Though he initially wasn’t keen on running his own company, he needed to pay
his mortgage. He eventually sold his interest in this venture for $60,000,
which gave him the seed capital to pursue his next big idea: starting his own
company from his basement.
Creating a Security Giant: Herjavec Group
Robert founded BRAK Systems, a technology business focused
on internet security. His company quickly grew to become the largest internet
security firm in Canada. This marked the beginning of Robert's success as an
entrepreneur, as he became increasingly recognized in the cybersecurity field.
Expanding and Selling BRAK Systems
In 2000, Herjavec sold BRAK Systems for $30.2 million, a
deal that set him on a path to even greater success. He used the proceeds from
the sale to expand into other ventures, continuing his focus on technology and
cybersecurity. His next business venture was the Herjavec Group, which he
founded in 2003.
The Rise of Herjavec Group
Herjavec Group quickly became one of North America’s
fastest-growing technology companies. Specializing in managed security
services, the company established a reputation for delivering secure, 24/7
cybersecurity services. Herjavec expanded the company to operate globally, with
offices in the U.S., U.K., and Canada, becoming a major player in the
cybersecurity sector.
Biography of Robert Herjavec: Businessman, Investor, Television personality #Entrepreneur#startup#age#net worth#Herjavec Group#Shark Tank#Robert Herjav
The Shark Tank Journey Begins
In 2009, Robert Herjavec became a part of the popular ABC TV
show "Shark Tank" as an investor. On the show, aspiring entrepreneurs
pitch their business ideas to a panel of successful business leaders, or
"Sharks," hoping to secure funding. Robert’s sharp business instincts
and willingness to mentor aspiring entrepreneurs made him a favorite on the
show, where he invested in over 50 deals by 2024.
The Success of Shark Tank
Over the years, Robert Herjavec became a beloved and trusted
investor on "Shark Tank." His contributions to the show helped it
become one of the highest-rated programs on ABC. His role as a
"Shark" showcased his ability to spot potential in new businesses and
offer valuable advice to help them grow.
A Global Business Leader
In addition to "Shark Tank," Robert Herjavec
appeared as a leading investor on the Canadian version of the show,
"Dragons’ Den," from 2006 to 2012. His success as a TV personality
and investor earned him recognition as a global business leader. He was also a
regular keynote speaker, speaking at over 25 events annually.
Robert’s Other Ventures and Investments
Herjavec’s expertise wasn’t limited to his work on TV or his
cybersecurity ventures. He became known for his investments in startups,
particularly in the tech and cybersecurity sectors. Robert’s ability to mentor
and invest in emerging companies helped him build a significant personal
fortune and reputation as a savvy investor.
Writing and Publishing
Beyond his entrepreneurial achievements, Robert is also an
accomplished author. He published three books, two of which made the New York
Times bestseller list. His books, which include titles like You Don’t Have to
Be a Shark, reflect his business philosophy and offer advice to aspiring
entrepreneurs.
Robert’s Personal Life
Robert's personal story is one of resilience and dedication.
He is married to Kym Johnson, a former "Dancing with the Stars"
champion, and together they share homes in the U.S., Canada, and Australia.
Outside of business, Robert is an avid runner, former race car driver, and
passionate collector of exotic cars.
Herjavec’s Legacy
Today, Robert Herjavec’s estimated net worth is $320
million, as of 2024. His story of overcoming adversity, building successful
companies, and becoming a beloved investor on TV is a testament to his hard
work and determination. He has made over $16 million in investments on
"Shark Tank" alone, continuing to help entrepreneurs bring their
ideas to life.
Looking Ahead: A Continual Drive for Success
Despite his immense success, Robert’s drive for innovation
and improvement remains as strong as ever. He continues to mentor and invest in
businesses, especially in the fields of cybersecurity, while inspiring others
through his speaking engagements and books. His journey from poverty to success
stands as an inspiration to many.
Timeline for story
1962: Robert Herjavec is born in Yugoslavia (now Croatia).
1970: Family immigrates to Canada, settling in Toronto.
1984: Works as a field producer for the 1984 Winter Olympics
in Sarajevo.
1985: Joins a tech company, starting his career in
technology.
1990: Fired from his tech job, a turning point in his
career.
1990s: Starts his first entrepreneurial venture with Warren
Avis.
1995: Found BRAK Systems, a cybersecurity company.
2000: Sells BRAK Systems for $30.2 million.
2003: Found the Herjavec Group, expanding into
cybersecurity.
2006-2012: Appears as a "Dragon" on "Dragons'
Den" (Canada's version of Shark Tank).
2009: Joins "Shark Tank" as an investor.
2024: Invested in over 50 deals on "Shark Tank";
net worth of $320 million.
