Early Life and Education
Anthony Joseph Pratt was born on April 11, 1960, in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia, to Polish-Jewish immigrants Richard and Jeanne Pratt. Growing up in the affluent suburb of Kew, he was influenced by his family’s entrepreneurial spirit; his father, Richard, was a manufacturing magnate and president of the Carlton Football Club. Pratt has two sisters, Heloise Waislitz and Fiona Geminder, who are also successful business figures.
Pratt attended Mount Scopus Memorial College and later graduated with honors from Monash University in 1982, earning a Bachelor of Economics. His commitment to philanthropy began early; during his bar mitzvah, he pledged to contribute to charitable causes, including a project in Israel.
Business Career
Pratt’s professional journey commenced at McKinsey & Co, where he worked as a management consultant. In 1988, he joined Visy Industries, the family business founded by his grandfather in 1945. Initially serving as joint general manager, he became deputy chairman, eventually leading the company’s U.S. expansion in 1991. Under his leadership, Pratt Industries saw extraordinary growth, with revenues soaring from US$100 million to US$3 billion by 2016.
Following his father’s passing in 2009, Pratt returned to Australia as the executive chairman of Visy. His leadership has been marked by a strong focus on sustainability and innovation, including the opening of a 100% recycled paper mill in Illinois and significant investments in green manufacturing.
In recent years, Pratt has continued to expand Visy’s operations, opening a $700 million paper mill and box factory in Kentucky in September 2023. His commitment to creating jobs and supporting the economy has led to pledges of billions of dollars in investments across Australia and the U.S.
Philanthropy and Political Engagement
Pratt is known for his philanthropic efforts, having pledged to donate A$1 billion to charitable causes. He actively supports various organizations, including Planned Parenthood and the Urban League, and serves on several boards, including the Muhammad Ali Center. His philanthropic initiatives extend to environmental causes, underscoring his commitment to sustainability.
In addition to his philanthropic work, Pratt is a significant political donor in Australia, contributing millions to both major parties. His relationships with political figures, including former President Donald Trump, have sparked interest and scrutiny, particularly regarding discussions about U.S. national security.
Honors and Recognition
Throughout his career, Pratt has received numerous accolades, including an honorary PhD from Monash University and the title of Australian Businessman of the Year. He was recognized as one of the “50 Most Influential People in the World” by Fortune magazine in 2018.
Personal Life
Pratt divides his time between New York City and Melbourne, where he resides in Raheen, a heritage-listed mansion. He is an avid art collector and patron of the arts, supporting various cultural institutions in both Australia and the U.S. As a member of the Jewish community, he remains connected to his heritage and continues to champion causes that resonate with his values.
Legacy
Anthony Pratt’s impact on the packaging and recycling industries is profound, marked by a commitment to innovation, sustainability, and philanthropy. His vision for a greener future continues to influence both his business endeavors and charitable initiatives, solidifying his legacy as a leading figure in global manufacturing and philanthropy.
