Andre Hakkak is an accomplished financier, entrepreneur, and philanthropist best known as the co-founder and CEO of White Oak Global Advisors, a San Francisco-based investment firm focused on providing financial solutions to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). With an impressive career spanning multiple sectors, Hakkak’s success in finance has contributed significantly to his substantial net worth, which is estimated to range widely between $200 million and $10 billion as of 2024
Early Life and Education
Andre Hakkak was born on January 5, 1973, in Tehran, Iran. After moving to the United States, he pursued higher education, attending the Haas School of Business at the University of California, Berkeley, where he earned an undergraduate degree. He later attended the University of Chicago, obtaining a Master’s degree in Finance. These educational credentials equipped him with a solid foundation in financial strategy and investment management, which would prove crucial in his future ventures.
Career Beginnings in Investment Banking
Hakkak began his career in the early 1990s as an investment banker at Robertson Stephens & Co., where he gained experience in capital markets, mergers and acquisitions, and financial advisory services. His early career in investment banking was marked by his talent for navigating complex financial landscapes, which laid the groundwork for his success in asset management and venture capital
Founding Alpine Global and White Oak Global Advisors
In 2000, Hakkak founded Alpine Global Inc., focusing on real estate investments and alternative fixed-income strategies. His work at Alpine demonstrated his ability to capitalize on alternative investments, setting the stage for his later ventures. In 2007, Hakkak co-founded White Oak Global Advisors, where he took on the CEO role. Under his leadership, White Oak became a prominent player in alternative finance, providing over $24 billion in capital to more than 20,000 SMEs and managing billions in assets across a diverse portfolio
Andre Hakkak net worth and Key Investments
Andre Hakkak’s net worth has grown primarily through his stake in White Oak Global Advisors, but he has also made substantial investments in real estate and technology startups. His diversified portfolio includes:
- White Oak Global Advisors: Hakkak’s role as CEO and co-founder has been central to the firm’s success. White Oak’s focus on providing customized financial solutions to SMEs has solidified its position as a major force in the asset management space.
- Real Estate: Hakkak owns several luxury properties, including a $13.6 million mansion in Coral Gables, Florida, which showcases his eye for valuable real estate investments.
- Tech Investments: He has invested in innovative tech startups, including a company specializing in AI healthcare solutions
Philanthropy and Community Engagement
Beyond his financial achievements, Hakkak is known for his philanthropic efforts through the Hakkak Family Foundation, which supports healthcare, education, and environmental sustainability initiatives. Over the years, he has donated millions to organizations such as the Make-A-Wish Foundation and the American Cancer Society, emphasizing his commitment to ethical investing and social responsibility.
Personal Life
Andre Hakkak is married to Marissa Shipman, an entrepreneur and founder of Balm Cosmetics. Together, they form a powerful partnership, blending financial success with creative enterprise. They share a commitment to giving back through both individual and shared philanthropic efforts
Conclusion
Andre Hakkak’s story is of financial acumen, strategic investments, and a dedication to community impact. His leadership at White Oak Global Advisors and diverse investments have cemented his status as a notable figure in the finance industry, while his philanthropy reflects a strong commitment to social causes.