- Net Worth: $21.2 billion
- Ranking: #78
- 2023 Billionaires Net Worth: $22.9 billion
- Occupation: Founder, chairman, and majority owner of Ineos Group, a chemical conglomerate
- Background: Former chemical engineer
- Business Scope: Ineos Group, based in London, produces a diverse range of chemicals, including synthetic oils, plastics, and solvents used in medical applications
- Impactful Player: Ineos Group is a significant player in the U.K.’s shale sector and played a pioneering role in transporting U.S. shale gas into Europe with its “Dragon Ships”
- Entrepreneurial Drive: Ratcliffe mortgaged his house in 1992 to lead a buyout of a BP chemicals business, which laid the foundation for Ineos; later acquired a plant from that firm to form Ineos
- Strategic Acquisitions: Ineos acquired chemicals businesses from BP in 2021 for $5 billion; formed petrochemical joint ventures with Sinopec worth more than $7 billion in 2022; acquired $1.4 billion of U.S. onshore oil and gas assets from Chesapeake Energy in 2023
- Residence: London, United Kingdom
- Citizenship: United Kingdom
- Marital Status: Married
- Age: 70
James Ratcliffe, a pioneer in the chemical industry and a visionary entrepreneur, reshapes the landscape of innovation as the founder, chairman, and majority owner of Ineos Group. His journey, from a chemical engineer to the forefront of chemical production, reflects his strategic acumen and enterprising spirit.
Born in 1952, Ratcliffe’s journey found its footing through a remarkable trajectory. Armed with a background in chemical engineering, he embarked on a journey that ultimately led to the founding of Ineos Group. The London-based conglomerate, a chemical powerhouse, transforms raw materials into a diverse range of products, from plastics and oils to vital medical solvents.
Ineos’ impact extends beyond chemical production. Pioneering the U.K. shale sector, Ineos emerged as a crucial player. The “Dragon Ships,” a remarkable innovation, symbolize Ratcliffe’s commitment to exploration and innovation, being the first to transport U.S. shale gas into Europe.
Ratcliffe’s entrepreneurial mettle took shape when he mortgaged his house to lead a buyout of a BP chemicals business. This move laid the foundation for Ineos, and strategic acquisitions and joint ventures followed, reshaping the company’s trajectory.
Beyond business, Ratcliffe’s spirit of adventure shines. His expeditions to both the North and South poles, along with a month-long motorbike journey in South Africa, showcase his daring nature.
At 70, James Ratcliffe’s journey remains one of relentless innovation. From chemicals to exploration, his legacy reverberates through the industry. His impact, whether in transforming raw materials or embracing uncharted territories, underscores the transformative power of vision, strategic leadership, and an adventurous spirit.