Sir Jim Ratcliffe is the part-owner of Manchester United and head of the Ineos firm.
In December of 2023 – it was officially announced that Ratcliffe’s Ineos would be securing a part-stake in the club, which fans hope will change the trajectory of Manchester United forever.
The British billionaire came to Old Trafford with a wealth of knowledge on business and football, hoping to work with the Glazers to transform the Red Devils back to their former glory.
Here is absolutely everything you need to know about him.
Who is Sir Jim Ratcliffe?
Sir Jim Ratcliffe is a British billionaire businessman and the founder of Ineos, one of the world’s largest chemical companies. Ratcliffe built his fortune primarily through the growth of Ineos, which he founded in 1998.
Ineos has operations in over 20 countries and encompasses a wide range of chemical and petrochemical products, including plastics, solvents, and fuels.
Ratcliffe is known for his entrepreneurial spirit and aggressive business strategies. He has been described as one of Britain’s most successful and influential industrialists.
In addition to his business activities, Ratcliffe has also been involved in various philanthropic endeavours, including supporting charitable initiatives related to health, education, and the environment.
How old is Sir Jim Ratcliffe and where was he born?
He was born on October 18, 1952 – making him at the time of writing 72 years old.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe was born in Failsworth, a town within the Metropolitan Borough of Oldham, in Greater Manchester, England.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Manchester United
Manchester United officially reached an agreement for Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Chairman of INEOS, to acquire up to a 25% shareholding in the club on the 24th of December 2023, making history.
The deal formulated was over a year in the making, with speculation starting about a bid on November the 23rd 2022. It was officially announced on the 17th of January 2023 that Sir Jim Ratcliffe was in the race to become owner of Manchester United.
Ratcliffe’s company, INEOS, has bought 27.7 per cent of Manchester United in exchange for sporting control. The deal cost around £1.3billion.
The club officially confirmed the part-takeover had been completed on the 20th of January 2024, following approval of all conditions, including the FA and the Premier League.
So essentially, this means the club’s football operation is now be overseen by INEOS but the Glazer family, who have owned United since 2005, remain in overall charge, which includes just about everything else.
Ratcliffe does have a say in his team, where he’s already brought in the likes of Omar Berrada and Sir Dave Brailsford – potentially soon-to-be Jean-Claude Blanc.
How did he make his money?
Ratcliffe made his money through his major chemical company – Ineos.
Founded in 1998, it has grown to become one of the world’s largest chemical companies. It operates in various industries, including chemicals, oil and gas, automotive, and more. The company’s operations span across Europe, North America, and other parts of the world.
Jim Ratcliffe’s success as an entrepreneur and business leader has made him one of the wealthiest individuals in the United Kingdom.
How much is Sir Jim Ratcliffe worth?
According to the 2023 Sunday Times Rich List, Ratcliffe is worth a whopping £29.3bn. This made him Britain’s second richest man. He’s also currently ranked 102nd on the Bloomberg Billionaire’s Index.
What does Sir Jim Ratcliffe own other than Manchester United?
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s business interests primarily revolved around his company Ineos and its subsidiaries, which operate in various sectors including chemicals, energy, and manufacturing. He has also been involved in other ventures and investments, including:
- Ineos Group Holdings: A multinational chemicals company founded and chaired by Sir Jim Ratcliffe.
- Ineos Automotive: A subsidiary of Ineos focused on automotive manufacturing, particularly the development of the Grenadier, an off-road vehicle.
- Ineos Grenadiers: A professional cycling team sponsored by Ineos.
- Ineos Hygienics: A hygiene and sanitization company launched during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Inovyn: A joint venture between Ineos and Solvay, focusing on chlorovinyls.
- Ineos Styrolution: A joint venture between Ineos and BASF, specializing in styrenics.
- Oil and Gas Assets: Ineos owns several oil and gas assets and interests, including the Grangemouth Refinery in Scotland.
- Real Estate: Ratcliffe has invested in various real estate projects, including the purchase of the Belstaff brand and its associated real estate.
- Sports Teams: Ineos owns or sponsors several sports teams, including football clubs FC Lausanne-Sport and OGC Nice.
- Other Investments: Ratcliffe has made other investments in sectors such as renewable energy and technology, although specific details may vary.
Who is Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s wife?
Amanda Townson was the wife of Ratcliffe until they split. He has two sons with her. He also has one daughter from a previous relationship with Italian tax lawyer Maria Alessia Maresca. He is presently in a relationship with Catherine Polli.
Why is Jim Ratcliffe a Sir?
In 2018, Jim Ratcliffe was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II, becoming Sir Jim Ratcliffe in recognition of his services to business and investment.
Has Sir Jim Ratcliffe retired?
Ratcliffe has not retired. He is known for being actively involved in managing his company, Ineos, and has retained his hands-on approach to business operations.
Is Sir Jim Ratcliffe a Manchester United fan?
It is reported by The Athletic that Ratcliffe is a lifelong Manchester United fan.
He has supported the club since he was a boy, and continues his affiliation with the Red Devils now. It’s a big contributor as to why he purchased part of the club. He now attends games when he can.