BERNARD ARNAULT

The founder, chairman, and CEO of luxury goods conglomerate LVMH. Born in 1949 in France, Forbes has named Arnault one of the richest people in the world, with an estimated 2010 net worth of $27.5 billion, and Time has named him one of the most influential people in the world. He has led the company through major expansions in countries around the globe.

LVMH is a French holding company, formed through a 1987 merger, that owns more than 60 internationally recognized luxury good companies, including Louis Vuitton, Moët et Chandon and Hennessy. The majority of LVMH's brands fall into the categories of wine and spirits, fashion and leather goods, perfumes and cosmetics, and watches and jewelry.