Bradford Lee Smith serves as the President and Vice Chair of Microsoft, a role he has held since 2015. With a career at Microsoft that began in 1993, Smith has significantly influenced the company’s legal and corporate affairs. He has led initiatives on critical issues such as cybersecurity, privacy, and artificial intelligence, while also advocating for human rights and immigration reform. Smith’s extensive experience includes serving as Microsoft’s General Counsel and overseeing the resolution of various antitrust matters globally. He is also a board member of Netflix and actively participates in civic organizations, demonstrating his commitment to both the tech industry and social causes.
Smith’s educational background includes a Bachelor’s degree from Princeton University and a J.D. from Columbia Law School. His early career involved working at Covington & Burling, where he was notable for being the first attorney to request a personal computer as a condition of employment. Growing up in Appleton, Wisconsin, Smith has always maintained a strong connection to his roots while navigating the complexities of the tech world.
What is Brad Smith’s net worth?
Bradford Lee Smith’s estimated net worth is approximately $671 million. This wealth primarily stems from his extensive career at Microsoft and various investments in other companies, including Intuit, where he serves as Executive Chairman. His financial portfolio includes significant stock holdings across multiple firms, which contribute to his impressive net worth.
Smith’s compensation as Executive Chairman at Intuit reaches about $13.7 million annually, highlighting his influence and leadership in the tech industry. His financial acumen is evident in his strategic stock trades, which have included substantial transactions over the years, further enhancing his wealth.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Bradford Lee Smith was born and raised in Appleton, Wisconsin, where he developed a strong educational foundation. After graduating summa cum laude from Princeton University, he pursued a law degree at Columbia University. His career commenced at Covington & Burling, where he honed his legal skills before joining Microsoft in 1993.
At Microsoft, Smith quickly rose through the ranks, initially managing the company’s legal and corporate affairs in Europe. His adept handling of complex legal issues, particularly during the company’s antitrust challenges, established him as a key figure within the organization. Over the years, he has not only contributed to Microsoft’s legal strategies but has also played a vital role in shaping its corporate policies regarding ethics and social responsibility.
Smith’s journey from a young lawyer in Wisconsin to a leading executive at one of the world’s most influential tech companies illustrates his dedication and expertise in navigating the intersection of technology, law, and public policy.