Richard Farleigh is a successful businessman, widely known for his career in finance as a private investor and former Dragon on Dragons’ Den. Born into a family of 11, Richard spent his early years travelling far and wide, living in a tent and the back of his father’s truck. When he was just 2 years of age, Richard was taken into care by the state before he was fostered by the Farleigh’s. An unlikely entrepreneur at first, Richard has forged a highly successful career as an investor and business angel despite his troubled childhood – now booked as a speaker for corporate events.
Showing promise in education, Richard won a scholarship from the Australian Central Bank which allowed him to graduate with first-class honours in economics and econometrics. After deciding against completing a PhD, Richard entered the working world at the Reserve Bank of Australia kickstarting his career in finance. He then went on to become an investment banker for Bankers Trust Australia, a position in which he worked for a decade. Outside of business, Richard was also a promising chess player and competed in the 31st and 34th Chess Olympiads.
Forging a successful career in investment banking, earning a seven-figure sum by the time he was 30, Richard was later headhunted to manage an international hedge fund located in Bermuda where he worked for three years. Having persevered against the adversity he faced in childhood, Richard was so successful in his investment career that he retired to Monaco aged just 34. Since then, Richard has been a business angel and investor, backing around 100 early-stage businesses across the UK. Richard is also widely known for restoring the Home House and establishing it as one of the most sought after private members clubs and for being the former Chancellor of London South Bank University.
Invited to become a Dragon on Dragons’ Den in 2006, Richard was famed as one of the Dragons who made the most investment offers. His most recognisable investment was in Levi Roots’ Reggae Reggae Sauce brand, joined by Peter Jones to make the condiment brand a success. After 1 year with a stake in the business, Richard sold his share for 10 times the amount he invested- a true testament to his prowess as an investor. With such a successful career behind him, Richard is now a popular choice as a speaker for business events. Having authored Taming The Lion, Richard is widely regarded as an authoritative speaker on investing and shares his perspectives on life, motivation, investment strategies and the highs and lows of business. When looking for a businessman with an inspirational story to tell, Richard Farleigh is guaranteed to leave your guests feeling inspired.
