Jacqueline Mars is an American billionaire businesswoman and philanthropist, known as a co-owner of Mars, Incorporated, one of the largest and most successful privately held companies in the world. The company is famed for its wide range of products, including iconic candy brands like M&M’s, Snickers, and Milky Way, as well as its substantial presence in pet care with brands such as Pedigree and Royal Canin. As a member of the Mars family, Jacqueline has inherited a significant portion of the family’s fortune, making her one of the wealthiest individuals globally.
Early Life and Education
•Full Name: Jacqueline Badger Mars
•Birthdate: October 10, 1939
•Birthplace: Washington, D.C., USA
Jacqueline Mars was born into a family with deep roots in the candy industry. She is the daughter of Forrest Mars Sr., who, along with his father Frank C. Mars, turned Mars, Incorporated into a global confectionery powerhouse. Jacqueline grew up with two brothers, Forrest Mars Jr. and John Mars, both of whom also played pivotal roles in the family business.
She attended Miss Hall’s School in Pittsfield, Massachusetts, and later graduated from Bryn Mawr College in 1961, earning a degree in anthropology. Although her educational background was not directly related to business, she was always connected to the family enterprise, which had become a leader in the global confectionery and food industries by the time she reached adulthood.
Mars, Incorporated
Mars, Incorporated was founded in 1911 by Frank C. Mars, starting with the development of the famous Milky Way candy bar. Over the decades, the company expanded its offerings to include some of the world’s most recognized candy brands. Jacqueline’s father, Forrest Mars Sr., transformed the company into a global leader not only in confectionery but also in pet care and food production.
Jacqueline Mars officially joined the family business in 1982, where she worked in various capacities within the operations division. Although not as visible in the public sphere as some of her family members, Jacqueline contributed significantly to the company’s growth during her tenure. Mars, Incorporated is famously private and remains 100% owned by the Mars family, making Jacqueline and her relatives some of the wealthiest people in the world.
Leadership and Legacy
Mars, Incorporated is known for its conservative and secretive approach to corporate governance, avoiding public listings and media attention. The Mars family’s control over the company remains tight, with Jacqueline, her brother John, and other family members having a hand in overseeing the business.
Although Jacqueline retired from active management in 2001, she continues to play a role as an owner of the company, alongside her brother John. Mars, Incorporated has continued to thrive under family ownership, with significant expansion in both confectionery and pet care sectors. As of 2024, Mars generates annual revenues of over $45 billion and employs more than 130,000 people worldwide.
Philanthropy
In addition to her business interests, Jacqueline Mars is deeply involved in philanthropy. She has supported a wide range of causes, particularly in the areas of education, health, and the arts. One of her most notable philanthropic efforts is her support for the Smithsonian Institution and the National Symphony Orchestra, reflecting her love of culture and the arts.
Jacqueline also has a keen interest in environmental conservation, supporting organizations like the World Wildlife Fund (WWF). In addition, she has contributed to efforts in sustainable agriculture and land preservation, focusing on initiatives that aim to protect natural resources for future generations.
Personal Life
Jacqueline Mars has largely kept her personal life private. She was married twice and has three children from her first marriage to David Badger. Her children, much like other members of the Mars family, maintain a low public profile. Jacqueline’s second marriage was to Hank Vogel, which also ended in divorce.
Despite her low public profile, Jacqueline was involved in a tragic car accident in 2013, in which the vehicle she was driving collided with another car, resulting in the death of one person. She expressed deep sorrow over the incident, and no charges were filed.
Wealth and Influence
As of 2024, Jacqueline Mars has an estimated net worth of over $40 billion, making her one of the richest women in the world. Her wealth is derived primarily from her one-third ownership in Mars, Incorporated, a company that remains privately held and continues to grow in both the confectionery and pet care markets. Mars, Incorporated’s global influence and Jacqueline’s personal fortune ensure that she remains a significant figure in both business and philanthropy.
Legacy
Jacqueline Mars’s legacy is intertwined with that of the Mars family and their contributions to global business. Under her stewardship and that of her family, Mars, Incorporated has remained a privately owned giant in the food industry, maintaining a tradition of quality and innovation. Her commitment to philanthropy, particularly in the arts, education, and environmental conservation, reflects her dedication to giving back to society.
Her life serves as an example of how a business leader can balance immense wealth and influence with a strong sense of responsibility toward improving the world. Despite the private nature of her life, her contributions to business and society will have a lasting impact on both the Mars company and the causes she supports.
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